All-rounder Joel Scurr stars for North West Sydney Hurricanes

JOEL Scurr is making the most of this season as one of the top all-rounders in the Sydney Shires cricket championships.

cRICKETS

JOEL Scurr is making the most of this season to press his claims as one of the top all-rounders in the Sydney Shires cricket championships.

Having recovered from hip surgery two years ago, the speedy south paw is ripping into his opponents with both the bat and ball to lead the North West Sydney Hurricanes first grade charge into the finals.

Two weeks ago, Scurr scored a decisive 84 to rescue the Hurricanes from a sorry situation and then snared six wickets to send table toppers and premiers Lane Cove tumbling to their first defeat this season.

The Terra Sancta College teacher is also in line for selection for the annual Sydney grade v Shires clash, being among the leading wicket takers in the competition.

"The game against Lane Cove was my best this season so far," Scurr, 24, said.

"I think I am finally at my best, physically, after the hip operation two years, which has helped to bowl consistently.

"If I am chosen for the shires team against the grades, it will be big step up for me and show me how I rate against higher opposition.

"However, I am not looking at getting into Sydney's grade competition as I now playing cricket as a hobby and I don't think I am good enough to play for NSW."

Scurr, who has been playing club cricket for nine years, moving through the junior ranks, also played a season with his father, Andrew, the duo helping the team reach the grand final.

"It was fun playing alongside dad in the competition," Scurr said.

STATS

* Bowling todate: 37 wickets; 164 overs; 17.90 average; 26.70 strike rate. Best: 6-69

* Batting: 10 innings, 254 runs, HS: 84, average 32