Jackson Wadden prepares to provide huge boost to Spotswood

Up against “powerhouse” opposition, Spotswood is right in the premiership mix again with a star bowler returning and young guns ready to take their opportunity.

Jackson Wadden is back at Spotswood. Picture: George Salpigtidis

Spotswood has every reason to be confident heading into the new Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season.

In just the space of three years in the competition, Spotswood has quickly emerged as a premiership contender.

Now it’s a point they’ll look to prove in the South-West group this season, having missed finals when sides from the two regions faced off during 2021-22, the club’s first venture into Subbies cricket.

“We’re really look forward to taking on those powerhouse clubs,” Spotswood coach Dan Schuppan said.

“We have great respect for those sides who have performed so strongly over a long period of time. We’ve done the full rotation now so we’re looking forward to getting into it.”

Spotswood can confidently say it has a stronger bowling attack than last season with quick Jackson Wadden returning to the fold after a year away.

He took 29 wickets at an average of 16.41 in all formats during his side’s premiership winning 2022-23 campaign.

Pat McArdle is the other new face in and around the First XI after crossing from Altona North in the VTCA.

Harry Lumsden is the only departure after he returned to the UK after taking 25 wickets last season.

“Getting Jacko back is a huge boost, we all know the level of cricket he’s capable of playing,” Schuppan said.

“He’s going to give us a real point of difference in the attack. Pat is a welcome addition to the club and he’s going to add some great depth and experience.”

While the star names will play a key role in Spotswood’s bid to reach another grand final, Schuppan is excited about several rising stars.

They include Ansh Sharma and Harvey Redpath, with the latter recently scoring an unbeaten 73 in a practice match.

“These young fellas are another year older and knocking right on the door,” he said.

“We’re big on bringing the kids through. We work closely with the JG Craig Shield team and we look forward to watching that group again.”

Spotswood faces Moorabbin to open its season.