OUTSTANDING young keeper Matt Everett is far from disappointed about missing out on a berth in the Tamworth First XI to play Toronto in Sunday’s opening Country Cup match at Tamworth’s No 1 Oval.
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The young gloveman was well aware that three wicketkeepers in one side doesn’t compute.
And with NSW Country Player of the Year Tom Groth a certain selection as wicketkeeper and skipper, it left him trying to dislodge Adam Mansfield, a North Tamworth Redback, who has impressed all who have seen him play with his crisp shotmaking and tight defence.
Mansfield has been named as Simon Norvill’s opening batting partner on Sunday, which left Everett one of three players from the squad of 15 to move back into the Tamworth Second XI for the Country Shield clash with Armidale.
As usual, the talented young cricketer, who skippered NSW CHS on a recent English tour, looked on the bright side of a situation and a team he skippered in the Country Shield last year.
“The three of us missed out,” Everett said of a selection decision that sent Jack Beaumont, Will Howard and himself back to the Second XI to be skippered by Ben Middlebrook and also containing former first XI stars Adam Lole and Aaron Hazlewood.
“Hopefully I will get a few runs and get into the First XI later,” he said.
“They have picked a very strong side but we’ll have a pretty good side with Aaron (Hazlewood), Adam (Lole) and Benny.
“It’s a strong 2nd XI.”
It’s also bristling with young talent mingled with the experience of Middlebrook, Lole and the brilliance of allrounder Hazlewood who can light up grounds with both bat and ball.
Howard is also an outstanding young fast bowling prospect just coming off a good football season with North Companions.
And Everett also believes will Chesterfield’s selection as the main spinner in the First XI side is well deserved.
“It’s good to see Will get a run,” he said.
“He’s worked hard to improve his game.
“I played all my juniors with him and know how good a player he is.
“He’s earned his spot and I wish him the best of luck.”