MPCA: Pearcedale boosts list after extensive recruiting drive

After being relegated, Pearcedale has set itself to bounce back in MPCA Peninsula in 2019-20.

Pearcedale cricketers pose for a photo at pre-season training last week.

Stinging from relegation at the end of last season in MPCA Provincial, Pearcedale concluded it simply had to get better.

And so began an exhaustive recruiting drive that has netted a string of talented recruits and a new-look coaching staff.

Pearcedale's Shayne Gillings.

Pearcedale premiership player Mitch Andrew has returned from Tyabb and will coach the club.

His Dales premiership teammate Shayne Gillings is also back, from Long Island.

Eager to boost the list, Andrew hit the phones.

“We’ve been busy in the off season,” Andrew said.

“We’ve spoken to over 130 players, with 75 being possible recruits. We’ve landed 16 recruits so far, adding depth and competition among the playing group.”

Pearcedale has also secured an international recruit, with young English left arm pace bowler Daniel Kelly to spearhead the Dales’ attack.

Former Long Island player and coach Gerard Rabot has been appointed Pearcedale’s youth development and specialist wicketkeeping coach.

“Gerard adds a wealth of knowledge to our club and he will be assisting our younger players with the transition from juniors to senior cricket,” Andrew said.

And another key recruit for Pearcedale: local golf course Bembridge has joined as a club sponsor.

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Pearcedale will compete in MPCA Peninsula, hitting off with a one-dayer against Heatherhill on October 5.