Werribee Cricket Club’s off season started in turmoil with the exit of player-coach Mitch Johnstone creating uncertainty around the Tigers’ plans for 2016-17.
But in recent times, small changes to the side that made it to last season’s semi-final have returned it to contention for another shot at glory.
The appointment of Tim O’Brien as playing coach seemed to calm the waters at Watton Street.
O’Brien’s previous experience with the club and knowledge of the playing group made for a seamless transition into the role.
The one question mark hanging over Johnstone’s departure is, who will pick up the extra overs the spinner used to bowl?
It’s not a like-for-like replacement, but new opening bowler Ollie Freckingham will be called on to shoulder the brunt of the extra load.
The 27-year-old comes to Werribee with a big reputation, having played 23 first-class matches with Leicestershire.
While he has undoubted talent, O’Brien is looking for nothing more than for Freckingham to just play his part in the team structure.
“At first we just want him to fit in with the group and get to know the boys, then hopefully he can join in with the bowling group we’ve got and just work within the team,” O’Brien said.
“We don’t expect him to have to come out and get 50 wickets or anything.”
Werribee will be hoping Stephen Plumridge and Matthew Palmer can step up to the ones after playing a lot at second XI level last season.
In the batting department, the Dean boys, Shaun and Matt, have returned, while Adam Alifraco, James Freeman and Chris Hennessy will be looking for big seasons.
The Werribee story for a long time has been one of ‘so near yet so far’.
O’Brien is adamant his side is not scarred from premature finals exits. “I think it’s about learning from previous experiences,” he said. “Hopefully, this year we’ll be able to play better under those circumstances and learn from our mistakes.”
Werribee will travel to Endeavour Hills for the sub-district cricket opening round on Saturday, while neighbours Hoppers Crossing take on new boys Taylors Lakes at Hogans Road Reserve.
