GDCA Cricket 2018-19: Rebuilding Riddell a finals contender

Riddell captain-coach Daniel Fisk says a finals berth would be a “massive” step in the club’s rebuild after an exodus of senior players.

Daniel Fisk is leading Riddell’s young team this summer. Picture: Kylie Else

RIDDELL captain-coach Daniel Fisk says a finals berth would be a “massive” step in the club’s rebuild after an exodus of senior players.

A perennial premiership contender in McIntyre Cup, the Bombers requested relegation to B Grade this summer after losing a host of key players headlined by star skipper Mick Allen.

Fisk has steered a youthful First XI team into contention for a top-four finish in Johnstone Shield, sitting fourth after seven rounds.

“Everyone wants to win, but I think with the group of kids we have got, if they play finals that’s a massive win for us,” Fisk said.

“With the young kids we have got, they have definitely got the ability and talent to make sure we get there.

“I think we will play finals, just so long as we can keep everyone on the park together.”

Riddell started the campaign with consecutive wins over Gisborne, Bacchus Marsh, Eynesbury and East Sunbury but has since lost against top-two sides St Anthony’s and Rupertswood.

Only 7.95 points separated ladder-leader Rupo and Ashfield (fifth) after Round 7, suggesting one side will be unlucky come the end of 2018-19.

“We haven’t really played a decent side with a full team, so hopefully we can get everyone together and see how we go against them,” Fisk said.

Kyle Whitehurst (213 runs and six wickets) has been a standout performer, while Fisk highlighted the development of Sam Dempsey and Harry Fisher.

Fisk said Whitehurst, who represented the GDCA in Round 1 of the Kenmac Shield, has “definitely got it”.

“They’re really talented young cricketers that just need a year or two to come on,” Fisk said. “A bit more experience and they will be pretty good cricketers.”

Fisk said he was content with his side’s form, but recognised one-day games against St Anthony’s and Rupertswood either side of Christmas could be decisive, labelling the pair as “the two sides to beat”.

Matthew Lloyd claimed 3-37 for Riddell as East Sunbury made 264 on Saturday.