NICHOLS Point have plenty to prove when cricket hits off this Saturday in the Sunraysia Cricket Association (SCA).
The Pointers have recruited strongly over the off-season, adding experience and depth with the arrival of Brad Thomas and Shaun Mathews from Mildura East.
Mathews has been named joint coach along with Kaushik Aphale, while Thomas will captain the senior side.
But Mathews knows reputations count for little if you can’t deliver on match day.
Since assuming the joint coaching role, the classy top-order batsman has focused on improving the club’s fielding, knowing it is what sets the top sides part.
“All the better sides are always good fielding teams,” Mathews said.
“We have put more of a focus around fielding, which the group is really thriving with.”
Nichols Point just missed out on a top-four finish last season and with the addition of Mathews and Thomas to their top-order batting, they look like real contenders.
They have also welcomed back international players Glen Bridson and Aphale, who will enjoy the extra support Thomas and Mathews will provide.
But perhaps the biggest inclusion is that of opening bowler Daniel Chapman from Merbein South.
Nichols Point struggled to contain opposition batting sides, but Chapman adds some much-needed pace and fire power in the early overs, something the Pointers have lacked over recent years.
“When Chappy is at his best he is one of the competition’s best bowlers,” Mathews said.
“He has been burning up the track and I think he will have a really good year.”
Mathews said he believed the long-term future looked good for his new club and had already seen some great signs.
“There’s a good vibe around the club. Everyone has been really welcoming to Brad and myself,” said Mathews.
“Junior development is something I’m passionate about.
“The Nichols Point junior numbers are growing every year and having people in place like David Hogarth, Kaushik Aphale, Brad and myself, the kids are getting the best local coaching available.”
Nichols Point open their season against last year’s semi-finalists Coomealla Wentworth.
Mathews believes Coomie will again be one of the contenders but thinks Mildura Settlers are flag favourites.
“Obviously, Setts, keeping a pretty similar side to last year plus adding a young fella by the name of Mark Cleary won’t hurt – Workers will again be up there, as will Irymple.”
