By Ewen McRae
Allan Wise has only been at Spotswood for a little over a year, but he’s already having a big impact.
Aside from his stellar on-field contribution – collecting 33 wickets at 10.61 last year – the former first class cricketer, and Premier Cricket legend has been a huge boost for Spotswood’s campaign.
Coach Dan Schuppan said his value went beyond wickets.
“He’s been unbelievable,” Schuppan said.
“You’re talking about a guy that’s played first class cricket for two states, Victoria and South Australia, taken over 500 premier first XI wickets, captained a couple of flags at Richmond/Monash Tigers.
“To have that sort of experience come into the club, you just can’t put a price on that. He’s just a star, and myself and all the guys at the club are just trying to learn as much as we can off him.
“He’s a genuine asset to have around.”
Wise called time on his Premier Cricket career at the end of the 2016-17 season, taking with him a club record 541 First XI wickets in his 286 games at the level.
The left-armer said it had been a smooth transition to the VTCA, and after taking on the captaincy this season he hoped to guide his side into finals and beyond.
“I think it takes a year to get used to the level, and it’s certainly a bit more relaxed than Premier Cricket, but I’ve really enjoyed the change,” Wise said.
“Getting used to longer sessions here, just the one break, all that stuff takes some getting used to, but the players are just as passionate and the club has been great to me since I walked in the door.
“It’s always different when you spend 20 years at one club and then you go to a new one, but the appetite to win has been really pleasing and the club is really well run so I couldn’t be happier.
“I think every side will be aiming for finals this year, but we certainly feel like we’ve got a better balance to the team this year and after just missing finals I think we’re well placed to take the next step.”
MORE VTCA NEWS
www.starweekly.com.au/sports/keilor-first-xi-keen-to-get-first-win-on-the-board/
www.starweekly.com.au/sports/good-signs-for-spotswood/
www.starweekly.com.au/sports/recruits-bring-balance-to-wyndham-vale/
