NSW grade cricket run machine heads south to chase first class dream after accepting rookie deal

A top order batsman who top scored against the Hobart Hurricanes in the final of last year’s Strike League in Darwin has signed a rookie contract with the Tigers for next summer.

Tim Ward drives through the off side as The Desert Blaze take out the Mens Strike League final against the Hobart Hurricanes at Marrara. Picture GLENN CAMPBELL

TASMANIA has finalised its contract list for the 2020-21 season with a top order run machine from NSW handed a rookie deal.

Parramatta’s Tim Ward, who plundered four centuries last season in Sydney’s premier competition, will follow in the footsteps of Jordan Silk and Charlie Wakim in moving south in an effort to crack into the first class arena.

Ward’s 717 runs at an average of 55.1 saw him finish as the third highest scorer last season, and came off the back of an impressive 457 runs at 76.1 from eight matches in 2018-19 and 699 at 43.7 the season prior.

Tim Ward has signed a rookie contract with Tasmania

He rounds out the Tigers’ squad, which includes fellow interstate recruits Peter Siddle and Tom Andrews, as well as the addition of local product Mitch Owen as a rookie.

“Tim’s had a successful few years at the Parramatta Cricket Club in Sydney with four A Grade 100’s in the last season, and I’m confident he will provide a good mix with our young local strength,” Tigers head coach Jeff Vaughan said.

“He’s a mature young man and I know he’s looking forward to this opportunity in a first class system.

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Charlie Wakim moved to Tasmania several years ago from NSW and has forced his way into the Tigers Sheffield Shield team. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt) NO ARCHIVING

“I’m really pleased that the squad has a well-rounded combination of youth and experience.”

A handful of players and coaching staff had a first hand look at Ward in action 12 months ago after the left-hander top scored with a 34-ball 45 in the final of the Northern Territory Strike League.

His innings was enough for the Desert Blaze to upset the Hobart Hurricanes by eight wickets after they cruised to their 103-run target in the 16th over.