Toowoomba Rangers step up to plate to defend GBL titles

FRESH off the back of a dual GBL premiership season, the Toowoomba Rangers are looking to repeat the feat again.

The Rangers return to the diamond this weekend, with a late surge in player interest enough to field three teams in the statewide league.

“We just got over the line for three teams. It’s going to be a tough juggling act during the season, but it’s nothing we’re not used to,” president Darryl Luchterhand said.

“There’s been enough interest for some new players to come on-board. Some have thrown during the off-season and we’ve started ramping up training sessions over the last few weeks to make sure we’re ready for the start of the season.

“Obviously we’re not as strong as last year, but in saying that some of our new players from last year will continue to improve with natural progression.”

Last season Rangers claimed the division four and six titles, with division five narrowly missing out on a grand final berth.

Luchterhand said their aim is to once again put themselves in a position where they can challenge at the business end of the year.

“It would be awesome (to replicate last year),” he said.

“We like to be competitive first and foremost.

“It was great knowing that we were right in every game, and this year will be no different. We’re hungry to defend those titles.

“Our div six side just want to play, and they could surprise us again. We didn’t know if they would make finals at the start of the year, let alone win a grand final by 17 runs.

This Sunday will also mark a special occasion for C-grade player Kirk Nicoll, who brings up his 100th game for the club.

“Kirk’s been with the club for close to 10 years,” Luchterhand said.

“Guys like him deserve accolades for the efforts they put in.”

All three Rangers sides are away for the first week of the season.