New Dolphins signings hoping to make immediate impact
WITH KwaZulu-Natal Cricket’s pre-season campaign now under way, two of their new semi-professional signings Michael Erlank and Keith Dudgeon are hoping to contribute positively as soon as the season starts.
Both players have made the journey to KZN from inland with Erlank leaving the Free State for Durban while Dudgeon has relocated from Gauteng.
“I am really looking forward to the challenge of a new city and new team,” Dudgeon mentioned. “My decision was made on the basis that I think I will be able to get more opportunities here than I did in Gauteng to play franchise cricket.
“I got a feel for franchise cricket last season but I think a move here will be good for my career. “I am a bit out of my comfort zone but I am really looking forward to the challenge!”
The 21-year-old’s bowling has been the feature of his game recently. But he knows that it is always advantageous to be able to excel at both the bowling as well as the batting discipline.
“I definitely see myself as a bowling all-rounder and I didn’t quite get off to the start that I wanted to with the bat last season.
“The guys at Kingsmead have been fantastic already and I can’t wait to learn from the likes of Rob (Frylinck) and (Mthokozisi) Shezi.
“I won’t be walking into the franchise team, so I am ready to work hard in the B side and I am excited about the upcoming season,” a focused Dudgeon added.
The experienced 26-yearold Erlank, who is currently playing in the UK, comes to KwaZulu-Natal with over 100 first-class games under his belt and the hunger to continue to grow as a cricketer.
“There were a few factors that have influenced my move to Durban but I think the main factor is change,” he mentioned. “I have been in Bloemfontein for most of my life so the change will be good for me and I know that there are loads of players and coaches in KZN that I can learn from.
“Playing for the Dolphins is definitely one of my goals. I’m looking forward to the chal- lenge of getting to know my new teammates, coaches and learning some new things from them, as well as putting in some strong performances for the KZN team and adding some value to the team.
“I’d like to keep improving every part of my game. I want to be the best that I can be and the only way will be by improving every day,” he added.
Being from Bloemfontein, there are a few others draw cards for Erlank than just the cricket when he gets to Durban.
“Apart from the cricket, I am definitely looking forward to be living near the beach!
“Durban is a beautiful part of the country, so living there is going to be great and hopefully I can also learn how to surf!” he added with a laugh. – Gameplan Media