Hoppers Crossing has strengthened its bowling unit with the addition of Kaushik Jagannathan for the Victorian Sub-District Cricket Association season.
The Cats announced the signing of Jagannathan late last month, with him to take on a big role on and off the field.
“Kaushik is a level two coach and will be joining us as our new bowling coach as well as a player,” the club said on social media.
“Kaushik spent last season as a bowling coach at Greenvale CC. Prior to that, Kaushik spent time at Footscray CC as a bowling coach.
“Kaushik recently played for South Barwon CC. He is also a former first class cricketer in India.
“Kaushik will be an incredibly valuable asset to our club.”
The new signing comes after the Cats announced three key re-signings as they hope to go further this season and make finals.
After being in the top six for much of last season, the Cats fell out of it at the wrong time of the year.
Sanka Abeyruwan returns to the club after jointly winning the club’s Max Mitchell medal for the first time.
He hit 397 runs at an average of 44.11 last season and took 26 wickets at an average of 20.77.
Brett Smith is also back for another season.
“It was never in doubt really,” the club said on social media. “Brett’s loyalty to HCCC is unmatched
“In season 2022-23 Brett hit 513 runs at 46.64 including three 50s and a top score of 80 against Werribee.”
Shijit Chandran is back for a second season at the club.
“After a strong first season our first player announcement for season 2023-24 is the return of a run machine,” the club said on social media.
“In his first season with us in 2022-23, Shijit hit 417 runs at 59.57 including a huge 131* on debut.”
