Season preview: Former grade cricketer Matt France a key inclusion for Royals in quest for back-to-back titles

Royals captain Mitch Green believes his side must show that last season’s drought-breaking A-grade premiership was not a flash in the pan, but remains confident they can get better in 2021-22. Green was a key part of the Lions snapping an 18-year title drought as they upset Mt Barker in the grand final. The former Rockingham-Mandurah batter led from the front with 675 runs and 16 wickets while the growth of their younger players was impressive. Ryley Valli showed strong signs at the top of the order, spinner Angus Thompson snared 25 wickets and fellow youngsters Lorcan McNamara and Caleb Haua were also part of the premiership team. The Lions have lost grand final hero Michael Roberts, who has moved to Geraldton, while important seamer Marcus Mellon won’t play competitive cricket this season. However, the Lions have recruited ex-WA Premier Cricket player Matt France who has played a mixture of first and second-grade games for Rockingham-Mandurah in recent seasons. Last season he took 14 wickets and made 181 runs across all formats and will add strong all-round depth to the premiers. Green said the addition of France along with improvement from his side’s young brigade, including exciting prospect Teague Valli, would hold their club is good shape. “Winning that elusive premiership for our club was fantastic but now our focus has turned to how we can get better and go again,” he said. “Obviously we have a couple of changes like every team but we are confident we have a squad of players that can challenge. “Matt is a quality player that will really fit in really well for what we need and some of our young players have really exciting seasons ahead.” Green said his team had good balance with a number of key senior players vital in their bid for consecutive premierships. “We have to get better, no doubt,” he said. “Other teams will get better and we must as well so guys like Ted Batchelor, Jack Steel and Dave Brown become real key contributors for us.” The Lions have the bye in the opening round and will start their title defence against Collingwood Park in round two. ROYALS Captain: Mitch Green Last season: Premiers Most runs: Mitch Green (675) Most wickets: David Brown (29)

Season preview: Former grade cricketer Matt France a key inclusion for Royals in quest for back-to-back titles

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