Victorian Premier Cricket: St Kilda’s Michael De Iacovo joins Casey South Melbourne

Fresh from their grand final appearance, the Swans have nabbed a key Saint to add to their batting strength.

St Kilda batsman Michael De Iacovo has joined Casey South Melbourne. Picture: Valeriu Campan

Casey South Melbourne has made the first major signing of Premier Cricket’s off-season, securing St Kilda dasher Michael De Iacovo.

There had been speculation for weeks that De Iacovo would be joining his friends Luke Shelton, Jackson Fry, Luke Manders and Cal Dodson – referred to as the “Carrum Crew’’ – at the Swans.

The right-hander confirmed it today.

De Iacovo was a Saint for five seasons and played 54 First XI matches, hitting 1171 runs at 23.89, with one century.

Last season he scored a ton in the Victorian Super Slam, and he also made five centuries in the Second XI. He’s useful with the ball too.

Four months ago St Kilda captain Adam Crosthwaite said De Iacovo could “potentially play in the Big Bash’’.

“I think he’s similar to a (Brayden) Stepien. If given an opportunity at the next level he could hold his own,’’ he said.

Michael De Iacovo bowling for the Saints.

“I think he’s the most damaging hitter and aggressive batter that we have in the comp. We haven’t come up against anyone who hits the ball harder or further. If he keeps going the way he’s going … it’s hard, he’s not in the system and hasn’t been in the system, and players who aren’t in the system rarely get an opportunity.

“But he can do damage. You don’t want to be bowling to him when he’s going, that’s for sure.’’

Before joining St Kilda De Iacovo had been a heavy run scorer at South Caulfield. He came through Le Page Park in the South East association.

Swans coach Will Carr said the club was thrilled to land the 29-year-old.

“He’s got terrific experience at a strong club and he’s a proven performer,’’ he said.

“We think he’ll complement our group very well.

“He’s got that connection with the Carrum Crew – Shelton, Manders, Fry, Dodson – and that was certainly a catalyst in him coming across, apart from the fact he’s moved down to Frankston and he’s got a baby due any day now.’’

Welcome to the Swans: Michael De Iacovo and Will Carr shake on it.

He said De Iacovo was capable of batting anywhere in the top six, leaving the Swans “a little bit spoiled for choice’’.

Carr said Casey South Melbourne was planning to be without Ashley Chandrasinghe for parts of the season.

The young left-hander is tipped to win a state contract after performing well in state second XI fixtures and Premier Cricket.

Carr said he expected the Swans to retain all their senior players.