Alistair Burge spinning up a special season among Kew’s big names

Kew remains undefeated on top of the VSDCA North-West group ladder and its star spinner is putting some of his big-name teammates in the shade.

Alistair Burge in action for Kew. Picture: Andy Brownbill

Much has been made of Kew’s big-names this season – John Hastings, Will Sheridan, Matt Brown, Andrew and Tom Chalkley.

However, spinner Alistair Burge is quietly producing arguably a more impressive season than any of his teammates.

The off-spinner took 3-24 in Kew’s thumping seven-wicket win over Brunswick in Saturday’s top-of-the-table clash at AG Gillon Oval.

The trio of scalps takes him to 23 wickets in eight games, No. 1 in the entire VSDCA, and a staggering seven clear of his nearing rival in the North-West group.

Burge took 25 wickets in his first season at Victoria Park and has taken his game to a new level this season.

Will Sheridan appeals for the wicket of Justin Lampard. Picture: Steve Tanner

Liam Murphy survives a close call against Tom Chalkley. Picture: Steve Tanner

“It’s no surprise to any of us at the club, he’s sensational,” Kew captain-coach Chris Weeks said.

“We’ve obviously got a couple of blokes that have played some really good cricket in their time and they rate him very highly.

“He’s an integral part of what we’re trying to achieve … he’s just got a habit of taking wickets.

“I try to be very attacking with my captaincy and he’s a very attacking bowler. I love playing with him.”

Sheridan (2-27) and Tom Chalkley (2-31) provided support with the ball as Brunswick were held to 9-150 in their 40 overs.

In the battle of the North-West group’s top two teams, the Wicks hit back with the ball removing dangermen Matt Brown, Will Sheridan and Andrew Chalkley cheaply.

Kew paceman Will Sist fires one down. Picture: Steve Tanner

Will Sist bowls Liam Murphy. Picture: Steve Tanner

Kew skipper Chris Weeks talks to Matt Brown. Picture: Steve Tanner

However, Weeks (44 not out) and David Wildsmith (44 not out) steadied the ship with a 90-run partnership that saw the visitors home.

Dom Sullivan was Brunswick’s best with bat and ball, top-scoring with 27 before claiming 1-15.

Weeks was pleased with his how his bowling unit set up the game.

“I was saying to Browny, I think our attack is well set up for all conditions,” he said.

“Our bowlers set it up for us, I’m really proud of those boys, Sisty (Will Sist) coming back from injury and got the important wicket of Murph (Liam Murphy).

VSDCA: DAMIANO BREAKS SUBBIES CENTURIES RECORD

LEADER: GET YOUR LOCAL CRICKET NEWS HERE

VSDCA: GENERATION NEXT IMPRESSING FOR MELTON

“If we just focus on what we do well we’re going to be hard to beat whether we’re batting first or bowling first.

“It’s another tick for the bowling group to set the standard and the batters following on.”

Kew remain undefeated on top of the ladder and now hold a 12-point lead over Brunswick and Preston.

The Bullants will visit Victoria Park on Saturday in a big test for the season’s biggest improvers while the Wicks will look to bounce back on the road against Werribee.