Playing cricket is something Dennis Stanley has always loved.
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But for Stanley, getting the chance to play the game as often, and as well, as he would have liked has been a battle.
Stanley, 36, was born with dislocated hips, something that wasn’t picked up until he was 18 months old.
“By then I was walking so they were both right out of whack,” Stanley said.
After growing in Warrnambool, Stanley moved to Geelong and Ballarat, playing cricket where it fitted in, and when his body allowed, along the way.
Five years ago he underwent an operation for a hip replacement.
“It is amazing the difference it has made,” Stanley said of the successful procedure.
“I moved back to Warrnambool this year and I decided to have a hit of cricket again.
“Woolsthorpe was just down the road so I joined the club and I’m loving being back playing.”
Stanley’s return to cricket has already produced a career milestone.
“I had never played A grade cricket before until this year,” he said.
“This is my second game at A grade level and it’s great fun. I only made nine today against Purnim but I felt really comfortable out there.”
Stanley opened the batting with Michael Mahoney, with the pair combining for a partnership of 40. It helped lay the foundation for a solid day one score of 7-253.
“I wanted to get the team away to a good start, the aim was to put on 50 for the first wicket and we were nearly able to do that,” he said.
“I would have liked to have batted through to the first drinks break but I just feel short.
“I was disappointed to go out, I was seeing them well.
“I feel confident I can keep contributing at A grade level and keep on improving as I play more games.” Stanley’s A grade career with Woolsthorpe might only be two games old, but he has already performed a number of roles.
On his debut, he bowled four overs, spent some time wicketkeeping. and batted at number seven.
His promotion to opening the batting was one he took in his stride.
“I’m happy to do what the captain needs me to do for the team,” he said.
“I’m just rapt to be back playing.
“I do appreciate it having missed so much cricket.
“I am now just keen to keep being part of the team and do my bit to help. I’m enjoying playing with and against some really good cricketers.”
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