St Kilda’s Harry Dixon explains the reasons for his recent run of form

After making his third dazzling century in two months, Harry Dixon explains how his recent form has come from avoiding the thought of failure. Read more.

Rising St Kilda star Harry Dixon says his recent form is a consequence of his capacity to compartmentalise.

Dixon, 18, has registered three hundreds since December; pummeling 197 not out for Vic Metro in the Under-19 National Championships, 147 for Australia in an Under-19 series against England and, most recently 111, his maiden Premier Cricket century on Saturday.

While that stretch of form for many would suggest a strategical or functional change, a fearless, managed mayhem approach is to account for Dixon’s enchanting purple patch.

“I don’t really think much, I like to just go out there and bat,” he explained.

“I am going out there and trying to have fun without thinking about it (making big scores) that much, it has paid off the last couple of months which is nice.

“Personally for me, I have found not worrying about anything and just trying to enjoy it as much as possible and trust your own processes, it will come off.

“I know there is going to be down patches where things aren’t going to work and you aren’t going to enjoy the sport as much.”

Dixon on the drive for St Kilda. Picture: Hamish Blair

After joining St Kilda at just (age) 12, Dixon has now cemented a spot at the top of the Saints’ batting card.

Although Dixon is confident he can fulfil the role after being made to work through the grades, he still pinches himself when he punches gloves with some Test stars between overs.

“It’s such a strong club, so I think having to work towards actually having to earn your spot in each grade has helped me a lot,” he said.

“I have only played like eight or nine first grade games I think, so to be around all those senior players has really helped my development.

“I think they (all the contracted players) have all taught me different stuff.

“Merls (Jonathon Merlo) was just awesome to bat with on the weekend, he is so much about just having fun in the middle.

“Harry (Marcus Harris) was awesome, he is really good patience wise and Pete was just awesome with knowing your own game.

“I think it’s just ridiculous that I have played with two Test cricketers already after only eight games.”

Dixon’s 111, along with 107 not out from Victoria allrounder Jonathon Merlo, has steered St Kilda to 4-311 against Footscray, but the Saints will need to take 10 wickets on day two to book a place in the 2022-23 finals.