Pies aim for big improvement

Improvement from within the squad will be key to Denmark returning to the Albany Cricket Association A-grade finals.

Denmark will be eager to advance up the ranks this season after only winning three games last season to finish on the bottom of the A-grade ladder..

A new astroturf pitch will be a major boost for the McLean Park side.

Captain Dan Robson and Brad Stewart will be key players for the Magpies after both taking 17 wickets last season.

Robson called on his younger players to stand up and fill the void left by Cary Green and Ryan Gaerth.

Gaerth, who was last year’s captain, will be a major loss given his standing as one of the competition’s best all-rounders. Last year he scored 324 runs and took seven wickets.

Green’s experience at the top of the order will also need to be replaced if the Magpies are to reach finals. “With Gaerthy not playing at this stage our season will depend on the improvements within the side,” Robson said.

“Especially the younger generation of players like Oliver Pluckhahn and Aden Montague who have had plenty of A-grade experience.”

UK import Ben Attrill from the Isle of Wight will bolster their finals hopes, with the 19-year old offspinner and middle order batsmen set to be a key figure this season.

Denmark are hopeful left-arm quick Matt Ellul will be available for a few matches throughout the season.

“We are really looking forward to him arriving prior to round one and having him for the season,” Robson said.

“Cary Green will be missed, retiring last year.

“Improvements from the younger players and a fit Matt Burton will be vital for our finals aspirations”.

Denmark are set to start their season against defending premiers Railways on October 19.