Hungry Joe is perfect fit for Red Rose
CRICKET CHRIS OSTICK
GLEN Chapple believes Lancashire have a ‘hungry player at the peak of his career’ after signing Joe Mennie as their overseas player.
The 29-year-old, who has played one Test and two one-day internationals, is available to play in all three formats – although will miss the final three County Championship matches of the campaign.
Although not the big name some Lancashire fans were maybe expecting, Mennie has an impressive record in the Sheffield Shield – Australia’s domestic competition.
The South Australia seamer, who also plays for the Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash, was leading wicket-taker in the Shield in 2016, taking 51 at an average of 21.21.
That form earned him a call-up to the Australia ODI and Test sides, making his debut in both formats against South Africa in November 2016.
Mennie, who started his career at New South Wales, has played 53 first-class matches, taking 200 wickets at an average of 26.17.
But after the impressive showing by Ryan McLaren last season - a signing that didn’t initially inspire too many Red Rose fans – Chapple is hoping they have unearthed another gem in Mennie. He said: “Joe is an experienced cricketer who has a very impressive first-class record for South Australia.
“It was really important that we brought in a highquality overseas player to the club who has good availability and this is exactly what we’ve got with Joe as he’ll be involved in all three competitions.
“Joe will add quality to our squad and we believe his bowling style will suit English pitches and conditions.
“He is skilful, bowls with plenty of pace, moves the ball laterally, has good stamina and is a strong lad. He is probably at the peak of his career, is looking for more international honours and is hungry for success.
“Joe is the sort of character who never stops once he is on the field and that’s the sort of player we want.”
Mennie, who has never played in the County Championship, is also useful with the bat, with five halfcenturies for South Australia.
“I can’t wait to join up with Lancashire for the upcoming county season,” said Mennie. “It is a club that has a fantastic history and their elite programme and winning ambitions made the choice an easy one.”