WADE Hancock’s “unreal experience” at the Australian Country Cricket Championships also has the Gol Gol star looking at adding to his bag of tricks.
The Sunraysia Cricket Association batter’s nine-game jaunt representing Victoria in Newcastle almost resulted in a national championship.
Sitting on top of the ladder before the final day of competition, the Vics’ final day loss to New South Wales saw Queensland take the title after their win over ACT.
Despite the third-place result, Hancock said it was an enjoyable time.
Often batting down the order, Hancock’s unbeaten 26 from 25 deliveries to top score for the Vics in their one-run win over South Australia was arguably his best performance.
“There’s been a lot of cricket, a really tough 10 days or so but it’s a great group of blokes and a really enjoyable time,” he said.
“I don’t think I’ve ever played that much cricket in that space of time, and neither have most of the boys here so we’re the walking wounded at the moment.
“We went into the last day on top and thinking we could win but unfortunately our top order didn’t fire again and we got run down pretty easily in the end.
“Queensland getting the win over ACT too meant they leapfrogged us, so after thinking we were a real chance at a championships we ended up third, but that’s just cricket.
“These are some of the best cricketers I’ve played with and against, and there are a lot of young guys here especially where I wouldn’t be surprised if you see them on the TV at some stage playing at a higher level.”
Hancock, who leads the first division run scoring in the SCA with 510 runs at an average of 127.5, said the tournament showed you can always develop your skills.
The ability of batters to play shots all around the ground, similar to those at the higher level, was something he was astounded by.
“The game is changing so much and you’ve got to keep developing the way you play,” he said.
“A lot of these guys are 360 degree players now, even at this level they’re pulling out ramps and reverse ramps…just some unbelievable shots.
“They have already asked me if I would come back next year and I reckon I’ll need to develop a few other things for then.
“Cricket for me in these past few years has been all about enjoyment, but it’s weeks like this that remind me to take these opportunities that come up while you’re still young enough to do so.”
