As a coach, it’s easy to walk into a well-established club, take the reins and enjoy the spoils. Paul Miller took on the role at Bundoora United this season after three years at Gisborne District Cricket Association club Wallan, where they won a flag in his first season.
“Basically I was looking to get back to metropolitan cricket, and for me, coaching is about challenges,” he says. “There are a lot of jobs around at good clubs who are ready-made for success but the role at Bundoora United was a major point of difference for me.
Talking to the guys ahead of the season, there was a real challenge there to make the club stronger on and off the field and it’s one I’ve really enjoyed.” The club, the Bulldogs, play in the Money Shield of the Diamond Valley Cricket Association, the league’s second-highest grade behind the Barclay Shield.
The Bulldogs have endured a lean trot in recent years, but currently sit seventh of 14 teams, battling with several teams for the final spot in the top four.
They’ve won four of nine games, one more than they won in all of the 2011/12 season. Much of the improved showing this season can be attributed to right arm quick Ruwan Perera, in his second season with Bundoora United.
After 10 games, the Sri Lankan has snared 36 wickets at the remarkable average of 11.11, to be one of the best bowlers in the competition. Last season he took a respectable 18 wickets.
Miller, 44, says the feedback on Perera’s progress has been positive. “Compared with last season it seems like he has come back a year older, understanding wickets better and knowing where he has to bowl,” he says.
“It was all a matter of getting his length right. He bowls a good line but this season he has been hitting the right length all year and opposition guys are really struggling.
“Apparently he is nowhere near as quick as he was last season but that’s perfectly fine because he’s sharp enough at this level and he’s bowling within himself … If he keeps going this way, he’s going to push 50 wickets for the season.” Miller still plays himself, opening the batting or in the middle order.
His form has fluctuated, with a 55 not out and 99 not out in two Twenty20 matches but only one half-century in the Money Shield. With two games to the finals he says the side has a “good opportunity” with “winnable” matches.
“For us to make it we have to win all four games,” he says. “We rate ourselves a good chance but there’s not an easy game and it will go down to the last round.”
