Focused young group leading DDSWQ hopes

A determined fortnight has put DDSWQ into an imposing position ahead of tomorrow’s Lord’s Taverners competition match against Valley.

Jem Ryan bowls for DDSWQ during last weekend’s victory over University of Queensland. Picture: Bev Lacey

CRICKET: Things are looking up for the talented group of youngsters that make up the Darling Downs South West Queensland cricket squad.

The Lord’s Taverners competition side has moved up to third in their divisional ladder on the back of two impressive wins, and they are looking to bring up the hat-trick when hosting Valley at Toowoomba Grammar tomorrow.

After knocking off ladder-leaders Redlands on the road, they backed it up with a clinical bonus-point victory of University of Queensland last weekend.

Coach Jason Fenwick said he had some concerns about maintaining that level of intensity, however any fears were quickly eased.

“I was a bit worried after wining such a tight game against arguably the best team in the comp that we might’ve rested on laurels a bit against one of the weaker sides,” he said.

“The boys rocked up ready to play and executed everything we’ve been working on for the season.

“Everything clicked. It was fantastic to watch from the sidelines.

“Jem Ryan had a phenomenal spell. He was clinical with his line and length and was a big threat early which gave the whole team a boost.”

Chasing a modest total, Fenwick said the top order was all class in running down the score with more than 20 overs to spare.

“There’s always that bit of a worry that you can take it a bit too calm in the beginning,” he said.

“Arshvir (Singh) really relaxed into things and played his natural game. He hit the bad balls and really got us off to the perfect start, which meant there was no pressure for the guys coming in.”

As for tomorrow’s opponent, Fenwick said they will be understrength against a quality opposition, but backed the depth of the squad to shine at Mills Oval.

“It’s definitely going to be another challenge for us,” he said.

“We’re missing two of our key players in Paul Draheim and Sam Anderson, and the blokes that come in for them need to make sure they’re ready to play.

“But we have a great depth of talent. Those holes will be filled and hopefully they will perform very well.

“The track is accustomed to a lot of our Grammar boys.”

Play commences at TGS Mills Oval at 10am tomorrow.

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