Premier Cricket: St Kilda captain Adam Crosthwaite says a Saints star is at his peak

St Kilda captain Adam Crosthwaite has praised the performance of one of his stars, believing he’s yet to deliver his best.

After witnessing Zak Evans’ performance last weekend, St Kilda captain Adam Crosthwaite believes the ex-Victorian quick is at peak of his powers.

Evans, who lost his contract with Victoria at the end of last summer, claimed 4-18 from 9.4 overs, dismissing Blues stars Mackenzie Harvey, Harry Smyth and Connor Rutland in his opening spell alone.

Crosthwaite watched on from the slips as Evans changed the game.

“He’s (Evans) been great, I think he’s back to his quickest,” Crosthwaite said.

“He’s bowling fast but the best thing about it is he’s not just bowling fast, he’s bowling well.

“He’s not really missing his mark, he’s hitting spots, he’s moving the ball.

“He’s every bit the first-class player he wants to be and he’s bowling well enough to get his name back in that conversation as well.”

Evans had the grippers up and about early. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Evans while playing for the Melbourne Renegades. (Photo by Mike Owen/Getty Images)

Evans crossed to St Kilda from Ringwood two years ago after battling consistent injuries.

His body has since settled and, according to Crosthwaite, is thriving off the back of a strong winter overseas.

“When we first got him he was injured, he was sore, coming back from that shoulder,” he said.

“But he’s got his body right, he had a really good off-season in England where he was in and around the county scene.

“He’s bowling the best I have seen him bowl leading the attack.

“The thing I like the most is he’s being patient, he’s not hunting for poles, he’s just being patient and the results are coming his way.

“I am super excited and happy for him, it’s always hard if you get delisted and drop off the list to keep your motivation but Zak’s done that and he’s pushing hard to get back into that Victorian set up, which he’s bowling well enough to do.”

Evans got both Harry Smyth and Macca Harvey. (Photo by Josh Chadwick)

(Photo by Josh Chadwick)

Jon Merlo also had a day out, jagging 3-9 from 12 overs bowling into a howling wind.

Crosthwaite said the pair of them are reaping the rewards from enjoying cricket again.

“I think both Zak and Merl have found a love for the game and are relaxed,” he said.

“I think when you’re in and around the Victorian team, everything becomes about the result and the next game – you get a bit tight and you start to play to make the team.

“I think both of these boys have sort of grown up a bit in regards to that and they’re just playing good cricket, and they know if they play good cricket, their best is good enough.

“They both want it but they’re not chasing for it to happen tomorrow, they’re just being patient.”