Norths put hefty price on wickets
IF you want to understand why valuing your wicket is among the most crucial lessons a junior batter can learn, then look no further than first grade ladder leaders Norths.
Norths have lost 26 wickets in the first six games this season, a remarkable average of just 4.33 per game.
The next best record in the region’s top Cricket Far North competition belongs to Rovers, who have lost 47 wickets at 7.83 per game.
That protection of wickets spills directly into their brilliant 5-1 start to the season, and according to captain Angus Warnock, there’s a very simple lesson from the nets that is behind that success. Be selfish.
“We have put more emphasis on the fact that as players we need to make the runs not the bloke in after,” Warnock said. “Everyone has done that as well, which has been really good.
“We have been training harder to just be more selfish in the nets and that brings it out in the middle on game day.”
Norths have lost once this season to be two games clear ahead of a four-team tussle.
Warnock said having full trust in his line-up demonstrates why his side sits top of the table.
“We back our bowlers to take early wickets and put the batting side under pressure,” he said. “Our spinners have done well in the middle, reduced runs and taken wickets as well.
“Pitches are good to bat on first in Cairns but I think it is a confidence thing for us to chase.”
Norths will take on Barron’s strong bowling line-up with Jordan Fulton and Harry Gardner among the top bowlers in the competition.
“We are a bit light on with the bat this weekend but it gives younger blokes an opportunity,” Warnock said. “Nothing changes, we still expect the same from them.
“We have a lot of batting depth through the grades and that has added pressure on players to keep their spots and value their wicket.”