VSDCA 2018-19: Brunswick’s James Pearson out to make impression
A REPUTATION as one of the most lethal quicks in the VSDCA carries a certain expectation. Seldom does James Pearson not live up to that billing.
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A REPUTATION as one of the most lethal quicks in the VSDCA carries a certain expectation.
When James Pearson takes the new ball for Brunswick, as he did for Box Hill in the past two years, that expectation is wickets will tumble.
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The 32-year-old collected 77 scalps for the Mustangs after crossing from Camberwell, snaring six five-wicket hauls with a best of 8-34 against Mount Waverley.
Pearson’s arrival at A.G Gillon Oval during the off-season was a statement of intent from the Wicks as they strive to end a 31-year wait for First XI success.
“Clearly there’s expectations, probably more so from ourselves than anyone else,” Pearson said.
“We know on paper we have got as good a list as anyone, but that means nothing until you put some scores on the board.
“We have been really focused on that. If you stick to your process the result will come, especially when you have got as much talent as we do.”
Pearson made an immediate impact for Brunswick in Round 1, ripping through Ivanhoe’s lower-order to finish with 7-22 from 12.4 overs.
The paceman said he would relish sharing the bowling load with proven wicket-takers David McKay, Leigh Brennan and Tim Daykin.
“You get a bit less pressure on you with the ball, which often goes the other way and means you do better, when you have got blokes who can take a bit more load for you,” he said.
Another ex-Camberwell player, batsman Justin Lampard, crossed from Box Hill City Oval with Pearson to join Brunswick’s premiership push.
Pearson said he rated Lampard, who made 829 runs in two seasons with the Mustangs, “as good a player as there is in subbies”.
“I think he actually offers more around the group as well,” he said.
“He’s really good at helping the young guys out, talking about tactics and doing extras with the younger guys.
“He’ll churn out his runs, but I wouldn’t be surprised if you see people like Ben Moss, Henry (Robertson) and some of the guys in the twos really start to elevate their games as well from his help behind the scenes.
“(It is) something he really brings and I admire about him.”
The Wicks’ Round 2 clash with Preston will revert to a one-day fixture after being washed out on Saturday.
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