VSDCA: English import Charlie Ward leads Altona to third win in a row

An Altona import has announced himself to the Subbies cricket competition with a devastating spell of bowling with three teammates playing a key role in their side’s perfect start.

Charlie Ward has officially arrived as a must watch player in the Victorian Sub District Cricket Association.

Altona’s English import announced himself to the rest of the competition on Saturday with a devastating spell of bowling to guide his side to an eight-wicket win over Melton.

Ward finished with 5-14 in under seven overs to have Melton all out for 66 before Altona cruised to victory behind an unbeaten 44 from Matt Grubb at the top of the order.

Ward, who is one of three English imports at Altona this season, had shown promising signs in his side’s opening two games having taken two wickets but had only bowled six overs combined across those matches.

Altona coach Aaron Whear believes his side has landed a major talent.

Altona's young English trio of Luke Medlock, Charlie Ward and Archie Scott.

“He’s come over and made a really good impression on the group,” he said.

“He bowls with really good pace. Throughout pre-season I thought he had bowled quite well in the nets at training.

“By all reports on the weekend, his line and length was outstanding. It was great he was able to get some reward for his efforts.”

Altona sits second after the first five rounds of the season with three wins and two draws, due to washouts, and is destined to improve on last campaign’s efforts.

They won just four games.

Adam Yates has made an impressive start to the season. Picture: Hamish Blair

According to Whear, a consistent team approach has been a key factor in the success so far — and the numbers do it justice.

Grubb and Adam Yates are the club’s highest leading run scorers so far with 75 for the season.

Meanwhile, Ward and Yates have seven wickets apiece with captain James Grubb next best with four.

“I can’t have asked for much more from this group so far,” Whear said.

“I’m absolutely delighted with how they’ve been performing. Winning these first three games of the season has given us great confidence which is really important for a young group.”

Altona was meant to play Endeavour Hills on Sunday as part of a double header weekend but the clash was called off due to rain.

They’ll next turn their attention to a clash with Noble Park.