And on Friday, the day before the Bulls confront Old Boys at Riverside 2, the 18-year-old has been praised by two of Tamworth’s most respected players.

South Tamworth pacemen Tom O’Neill saw Davidson’s work at close quarters when Bective thumped Souths last round.

Gerhard Labuschagne claimed seven wickets for the match to lead the way for the Bulls, but it was Davidson who O’Neill singled out upon recalling the match.

“Lachie Davidson bowled really well,” he said. “He bowled the right line and the right length.”

If Bective – on a high after their first outright of the season, and now only 6.46 points behind fourth-placed North Tamworth – are to beat top-ranked Old Boys in the penultimate regular-season round, they will likely need Davidson to fire.

Bulls skipper Adam Jones is “more than pleased” with his young charge’s form.

He said: “Lachie’s form has gone to another level this year since returning from his HSC studies. He has been the difference in our bowling line-up and is the key to our side. He brings so much [to the table].”