IRYMPLE all-rounder Billy Phelan has the tools to be a smoky for the 2023-24 SCA Innes Medal, according to his coach.
The 21-year-old already has plenty of first-division experience and now as vice-captain for last year’s grand finalists, could take his game to a new level this season.
Phelan played a vital role with bat and ball last week, scoring a vital 24 and taking 3-22, to help his side secure three points from a tough position against Coomealla Wentworth at Henshilwood Oval.
“Billy has looked fantastic so far with bat and ball, and I have him as a real smoky for the Innes Medal or at least around the top three,” coach Bryson Lush said.
“People tend to forget how young he is, he’s only 21 but because he debuted so young it feels like he’s been around for ever.
“Billy I’d say is within the three fastest bowlers in the competition and is a great good batter as well, so if he can stay injury free and keep his form up he’ll be around the mark.
“He’s obviously had that winning form on the footy field this year and hopefully he can bring it to us on the cricket pitch.
“He’s also stepped into the vice-captain’s role this year which is a great step up for him.”
Despite a disappointing loss against Mildura East to open their campaign, Lush said he was happy with how the team fought back against the Blues last round.
Now they face Gol Gol in a grand final rematch at Alcheringa Oval in the first of the two-day games for the season.
“The first couple of rounds are tricky anyway and now we have to make the adjustment from white-ball cricket into a red-ball mindset,” Lush said.
“It’s been no secret that the shorter form has been our stronger format in recent years but we want to change that and really put in some good two-day performances.
“We still want to play positive and have that intent but obviously be able to spend the whole 80 overs at the crease.
“I can’t imagine there would be too many drastic changes, we have plenty of players who can stand up and contribute with bat and ball.”
Lush said the defending premiers remain the benchmark of the competition.
“You look at Wade (Hancock) and Shac (Thomas) who consistently churn out runs, and that’s something we’ve probably been missing the last few years,” he said.
“We have guys who can put their hand up each game but just probably not across an entire season, which we hope can change.”
The contest begins at 1pm at Alcheringa Oval.
