MPCA: Nick Jewell to coach Rosebud for season 2022-23

The former Victorian batsman has been appointed coach of Rosebud Cricket Club and he will have an ex-Tasmanian bowler and a former grade cricket star by his side.

Nick Jewell coaching Rosebud in footy. Picture: Valeriu Campan

As Nick Jewell points out: “I may as well spend all year down there.’’

He’s referring to Olympic Park Reserve in Rosebud, home of the suburb’s footy and cricket clubs.

Jewell will coach both clubs, having taken on the non-playing coaching job at Rosebud Cricket Club.

The former Victorian opening batsman is already coaching the Buds in footy, meaning his sporting focus will be Rosebud all year round.

Jewell, 44, is excited about Rosebud’s prospects in the MPCA — and he is adamant he won’t play for the cricketing Sharks.

He says he’s content to hang up the bat after an outstanding career that took in 62 first-class games for the Vics.

“I’ll be a non-playing coach,’’ he said.

“The body’s stuffed.’’

Rosebud Cricket Club president Tim O’Sullivan (left) with new coach Nick Jewell. Picture: Facebook

Jewell hasn’t coached cricket since he was in charge of Frankston Peninsula in Premier Cricket nine years ago.

“So I’m looking forward to the coaching side of it rather than playing,’’ he said.

“It will be good to see the improvement in others and pass on a bit of knowledge.’’

Jewell has secured two experienced former cricketers with impressive backgrounds to assist him at the Sharks.

Former Tasmanian paceman Deane McLarty and Jason Wicks, who took over 200 wickets in Tasmanian grade cricket, will be Rosebud bowling and assistant coaches.

“To have two state players and a guy who’s taken 200 odd wickets in Premier Cricket on the coaching staff should improve the off field standards and education process,’’ Jewell said.

Jewell batting for Main Ridge. Picture: Chris Eastman

Rosebud won the MPCA District flag two years ago before finishing on the bottom of the ladder in the second-level Peninsula division this season.

The Sharks were relegated and will line-up in District in 2022-23.

“They’re pretty young,’’ Jewell said.

“They obviously won the flag a couple of years ago to go up to Peninsula division.

“They just struggled a little bit this year…I went down to training a couple of times to have a look.

“I think they just need a bit of energy.

“Lyle (House) did a terrific job…I think they just need a bit of off field experience which I think I can help with.’’

Rosebud fast bowler Michael Clavin will also be on the Rosebud coaching panel, as a development coach.

Jewell said the club was poised to secure a couple of recruits.

“There are some really good things happening,’’ he said.