Rhys McCarthy has signed with Runaway Bay for the upcoming Kookaburra Cup season

Runaway Bay have secured the first piece of their Kookaburra Cup premiership puzzle with the signing of star Burleigh batsman Rhys McCarthy.

RUNAWAY Bay have secured the first piece of their Kookaburra Cup premiership puzzle with the signing of star Burleigh batsman Rhys McCarthy.

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Touted as a top four hope last summer, McCarthy has become the first big name to depart Burleigh after they crashed to ninth on the Kookaburra Cup standings.

Cricket Gold Coast's Kookaburra Cup - day two between Mudgeeraba Nerang and Burleigh at Nerang RSL Oval. Burleigh batsman Rhys McCarthy bowled. (Photo/Steve Holland)

The Seagulls however showed some promise and will aim to rise again in 2020/21 with McCarthy set to play a big role.

The New Zealand native took the first grade competition by storm in his first season, amassing 704 runs at an average of 35.20 to top the runscorers’ list.

McCarthy suited up only seven times for Burleigh last summer but boasts proven success at Kookaburra Cup level, helping Burleigh claim their maiden first grade premiership in 2017/18 and has also played cricket in New Zealand, the United Kingdom and Holland.

“With registration’s open and people signing up for the season, we are happy to announce that Rhys McCarthy has joined Runaway Bay Cricket Club for the upcoming season,” Runaway Bay posted on Facebook.

“We are looking forward to seeing him in action alongside the rest of the Bay Members for the upcoming season.”