JARRYD Walsh knows Nirranda isn’t bursting at the seams with lightning-quick bowlers.
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But the 19-year-old hopes his side’s brigade of spin and medium-pace bowlers can capitalise on accuracy, rather than pace, to become a formidable attack.
Walsh snared four wickets – equalling his season total from 2016-17 – in Nirranda’s season-opener against East Warrnambool on Saturday.
He praised the influence of former coach Jason Mungean on the Knights’ bowlers and said new mentor Steve Castles was implementing a “winning culture” at the club.
“I think we’re realistically in for a good season. We don’t have those quick bowlers with Brody (Couch) heading to Geelong but we just have to look at line and length,” Walsh said.
“We’ve still got our guys like Jason Mungean and I think he picked up another two wickets on the weekend. He’s been around for a long time and knows how to get people out.
“I’m sitting there watching him and thinking ‘why can’t I do that?’ when I’m just getting a few lucky wickets here and there.”
Walsh believes Nirranda is on the up after taking out the Warrnambool and District Cricket Association’s wooden spoon last season.
The former Emmanuel College student, a product of the Knights’ youth policy, said the potential of his teammates was limitless.
“I’ve played a lot with Norm (Zavier Mungean) and Jackson Couch and they’re just two players loaded with potential,” Walsh said.
“Jackson has obviously been playing with his brother Brody in the last couple of years, but I think he’s flown under the radar.
“I think he’s just as talented. You can’t underestimate him.
“Steve (Castle) has been great for us so far. He’s upbeat and positive, and you’ve got to be like with so many young blokes in the team.”
Nirranda faces Brierly Christ Church on Saturday.