Eaton primed for Green Caps

Eaton will open their BDCA premiership defence at home to Leschenault on Saturday at the Eaton Sports Ground. Although the Bobtails — who are likely to feature new high-prized recruit Julian Crudeli — will go into the game as warm favourites, skipper Clayton Caltsounis is not leaving anything to chance. Caltsounis said the main focus was on his side enjoying their cricket together. “We found something which worked for us last season,” he said. “So if we can get the momentum rolling again, hopefully it will look after itself. “But with it being a fresh season, you have to start it all over again.” The make up of the Eaton side might look a little different at times this season, as a couple of club stalwarts do their bit to help develop younger talent. “Jules will be there this week,” Caltsounis said. “Hewy (Clint Hewson) has taken on a bit of a development role trying to blood and mentor some of the younger kids coming through the twos. “We also have a couple of new fellas to the club coming in, so team-wise we will be a little bit different but it will also strengthen the twos up as well.” Saturday’s two-wicket home loss against Donnybrook was a game of two halves for Leschenault, who fought back valiantly after being rolled for 70 inside 32 overs. Despite the defeat, there were some positives for the Green Caps. Talented juniors Tyne Dodds and Nico Le Roux were given the chance to open the batting, which is an experience likely to help their personal development moving forward. The Green Caps also benefited from another special bowling effort from Shehzad Gondal, who took 4-21 off eight overs. After a steady opening, Leschenault’s top order collapsed rapidly, which is something they can ill-afford to do against a quality Bobtails bowling attack. Play starts at 12.30pm.