Max learns on the run
GOLD Coast batsman Max Houlahan admits he is still coming to grips with the demands of first grade captaincy as the Dolphins continue the search for their first Queensland Premier Cricket win.
With Dan Doran and Nick Stevens moving on and Michael Neser unavailable, Houlahan, 21, has been thrust into the captaincy hot-seat at Bill Pippen Oval.
His initiation was a ninewicket thumping from Wests in their season-opening oneday clash on September 1, before last weekend’s battle with Sandgate-Redcliffe at Robina was washed out.
Managing a Round 1 side with an average age of just 20 would test any captain and Houlahan has been soaking up every leadership tip ahead of today’s one-dayer away to South Brisbane.
“In juniors I did a little bit (of captaining) but I haven’t done it for a while. I’m only 21 so I’ve got a lot to learn,” he said. “I did the two trials we played against Dandenong and Norths, it just set me up for the season getting a little bit of experience at it at this level before we started the season.
“Obviously it’s challenging but I’m really enjoying it. I’m relishing trying to bring out the best in everyone and hopefully have some success in the not-too-distant future.
“I’m learning a lot off (coach) Jerry Cassell, he’s been a massive help tactically. He’s put in a big effort with mindset, looking at things differently and improving from failures.
“Not having as many older guys there (to help), it’s not an excuse. Everyone in our team is good enough to be playing first grade and higher.”
Houlahan was one of seven batsman to fall for single figures in the loss to Wests, but he was adamant they had the talent to turn their fortunes around against Souths.
“It was a tough start for everyone (but) we’ve learnt from that and the little one per centers they can do better,” he said. “Wests are a very, very good team and they’re probably going to be there at the back end of the season. We’ve got to better and we will be.”
With Max Bryant and Xavier Bartlett away on JLT Cup duties, the Dolphins have brought Jack Hargreaves and Ben David into the XI for today’s game at Fairfield.
DOLPHINS XI: Lewin Maladay, Max Houlahan, Oscar Richardson, Hugo Burdon, Liam Hope-Shackley, Matt Kuhnemann, Trent Arnold, Xavier Bartlett, Josh Kann, Jackson Smith, Jack Hargreaves, Ben Davis