MPCA: Te Ahu Davis links with Baden Powell

The Braves have snared a former New Zealand first-class paceman who played alongside Kane Williamson and Tim Southee.

Te Ahu Davis hits out for Cranblourne. Picture: Richard Serong

What a boost for Baden Powell.

Last season’s MPCA Provincial grand finalists are set to add former New Zealand first-class fast bowler Te Ahu Davis for the 2021-22 season.

Davis, 35, played alongside Kane Williamson and Tim Southee for Northern Districts in New Zealand domestic cricket.

He’s also a former NZ under 19 representative.

“He works with (Baden Powell player) John Harrison,’’ Braves president Richard Wicks said.

“John didn’t even know. He hired him and then they started talking about cricket.’’

Te Ahu Davis.

Davis, who bowls with genuine pace and gives the ball a fair belt when he’s batting, last played with Cardinia in the West Gippsland comp, but also made his mark in the DDCA with Buckley Ridges and Cranbourne.

“He hasn’t played cricket for three seasons,’’ Wicks said.

“We spoke to him and, yeah, he’s interested in playing.

“You look at his stats and bits and pieces…he’s played a high grade of cricket, he’s a good pick up for us.’’

Davis played seven first-class games, with his first wicket being that of former Pakistani Test player Muhammad Wasim leg before.

Rhys Elmi bowling for Baden Powell.

Baden Powell made the grand final from fourth spot last season, pushing Sorrento to the limit.

The Braves will again be coached by Zacc Klan, with Travis Kellerman captain.

Leading players Rhys Elmi and Craig Entwistle will pad up again, while former club junior Liam Jackson has returned from Pines.

Baden Powell’s main losses are Taylor and Ryan Harrison to Main Ridge.