By Tara Murray
Greenvale Kangaroos captain Michael Stretton was happy with how his side responded after a slow start against Melbourne University in Victorian Premier Cricket.
In difficult conditions, with players on and off the field, Melbourne University finished day one at 2-191 having faced just 64 overs at Greenvale Recreation Reserve.
While Stretton would have liked a few more wickets, he said the bowlers had a good day.
“With the weather it was frustrating,” he said.
“We did quite well on a wicket that was quite flat and we stuck at it all day.
“They were going at four runs an over for the first hour and half, and after that it was just under three runs.
“We got better as the day went on. Everyone kept their concentration and there was definitely positive signs.”
Sean McNicholl and Humza Ali have one wicket each for the Kangaroos.
Melbourne has the option to bat on day two, with Stretton expecting them to take that option.
PHOTO GALLERY: Greenvale Kangaroos vs Melbourne University
“I think they will bat for about another 20 overs and take the game on. Hopefully we’ll be able to chase it down.”
In a positive for the Kangaroos, they have started to show some real positive signs with the bat in recent weeks.
Stretton said they were starting to put together more partnerships throughout innings.
Among those starting to stand up, it playing coach Kaushal Silva.
“He has been amazing,” he said.
“Zaheer Hussain has been doing well the last couple of games as well, hopefully they put their hands up and we can hopefully get the win.”
Silva, who played 37 tests from Sri Lanka, most recently last year, has been brilliant since arriving at the club.
Stretton said Silva’s impact was being felt throughout the whole club.
“It’s hard to put a price on it,” he said of Silva’s influence.
“The way he goes about it with training and the way he approaches his innings.
“He gives time for anyone at the club. It’s incredible having someone who has been helping batsman across the club.
“He is a great to learn off personally for myself.”
Stretton said while they are yet to get a win on the board, the young group is improving each week.
