FOUR months ago there was a strong thought in Bendigo cricket circles that Huntly-North Epsom would struggle to survive.
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The Power had lost several first XI players and the lack of juniors coming through the ranks was a major concern.
On Saturday the Bendigo District Cricket Association season hits off and the Power have overcome adversity to not only survive, but be in a stronger position than last summer.
The Power’s first XI side looks more than just competitive and they will field three junior teams – two more than last year.
The Power rounded out their preparation for round one with a training session with former Melbourne Renegades coach Simon Helmot.
Power coach Mick Hanson said the Power can’t wait to get started against White Hills.
“We’ll surprise a few people this season,’’ he said.
“Everyone wanted to write us off, but we’ve put together a good side. We’re keen to gain some respect back.”
Ash Gray’s return to the club after a six-year stint in Queensland was the biggest off-season signing for the Power.
“Ash Gray gives the ball a nudge at the top of the order and bowls seam up as well,’’ Hanson said.
“Elliott Massina will bat in the top order as well and bowl some handy spinners.”
The Power’s round one clash with White Hills at Glen Loddon Homes Oval is the first game in the BDCA’s Symes Motors Challenge Cup.
White Hills holds the cup, but if it loses its home game to Huntly, the Power takes over the Challenge Cup.
Teams can only lose the Challenge Cup if they’re defeated at home.
White Hills, under the new leadership of Rhys Irwin and Mitch Winter-Irving, has lost keeper/batsman Brayden Stepien to Carlton.
The Demons have signed opening bowler Myles Wade from Mildura.
Strathdale-Maristians open their title defence at home against Sandhurst.
The Suns will be without Nick Baker and Ryan Haythorpe in round one.
Sandhurst is tipped to be the big improver this season and will stretch the Suns.
At the QEO, new Bendigo captain-coach Adam Ward will be keen to start with a win against Golden Square.
The Goers expect to be semi-finalists this summer, so this is a game they should win.
Last year’s runner-up Strathfieldsaye hosts Kangaroo Flat at Flight Centre Park.
The new-look Jets face a big task to repeat their top four finish.
In the final game of the round, Bendigo United is at home to Eaglehawk. The Hawks are without veteran keeper Matt Fitt.
