MPCA: Ian Cockbain joins Provincial powerhouse Langwarrin

What a boost for the Mornington Peninsula Cricket Association, with a big-hitting County batter set to arrive in time for round one.

What a first-class boost for Langwarrin on the eve of the 2021-22 MPCA season.

The Kangaroos have confirmed their star recruit, Gloucestershire batter Ian Cockbain, will be here in time for the season-opener on November 13.

“He’s coming,” Langwarrin vice president Gary Rees trumpeted on Thursday morning.

“Everyone I talked to told me I was dreaming…that we won’t be getting him out from England.

“He lands in Sydney on November 2 and I’m picking him up at the airport on Sunday, November 7.

“Oh, mate, to get him for round one…everything’s just fallen into place.

“He doesn’t have to quarantine, we don’t have to pay any quarantine costs, it’s just gold.”

Ian Cockbain (left) and Mike Cranmer from the East Torrens District Cricket Club with the South Australian Cricket Association West End One Day Cup. Picture: East Torrens District Cricket Club

Cockbain, who has scored five first-class centuries for Gloucestershire, agreed to terms with Langwarrin back in July.

But his arrival was in some doubt because of international travel restrictions.

Rees said Cockbain was excited to be coming and keen to “crack in” for Langwarrin.

“He’s starting to get excited,” Rees, who has been in constant contact with Cockbain, said.

“He said he can’t wait to crack in and have a beer with the lads.”

Cockbain’s arrival sets up a blockbuster clash to start the MPCA season.

Langwarrin takes on reigning Peninsula premiers Long Island, featuring former Victorian Nick Jewell, run machine Tom Boxell and ex-Richmond premiership paceman Matt Shimell.

Langwarrin’s batting line-up will be led by Cockbain and Peninsula champion Chris Brittain, in his first game for Langy since crossing from Baxter.

“It’s a fair combination, he and Britts rocking out together, isn’t it?” Rees said.

There’s speculation Cockbain and Brittain might open the batting in the 40-over games.

Rees said Cockbain is bringing out three of his best Gunn & Moore bats. He will live with Langwarrin player Andy Eigenraam.

Cockbain, who has a reputation for hitting straight and long, played for Welsh Fire in The Hundred tournament in England, alongside England star Jonny Bairstow and Brisbane Heat big hitter Tom Banton.