ALASTAIR Templeton says a veteran's hand in the lower middle order is bringing stability to West Warrnambool.
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The fourth-year skipper is leaning on Luke Gannon for support as he plots the Panthers' first premiership in six seasons.
Templeton said Gannon's role - he's tasked to bat however the team needs in the lower-order - was ever-present in successful Warrnambool cricket sides.
"It has a place in a lot of different teams and I think it will for a long time," he said.
It's a really valuable role and Luke has been playing it very well for us.
- Alastair Templeton
"Hooter (John Houston) did it for years at Woodford and Walks (Paul Walker) did it a few years ago at Russells Creek when they won that flag.
"The ability to play 12 players has a massive impact on the role. Fielding is one of the things people want to do less as they get older.
"It's a really valuable role and Luke has been playing it very well for us."
Templeton said Gannon rescued his side with a half-century against Dennington after a top-order collapse and had contributed quickfire 10s and 20s regularly.
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He said previously a young player had been tasked with the lower order role but felt Gannon was the perfect fit.
"I don't think a younger player is right to play it," Templeton said.
"Luke has played nearly 300 games for us and has nothing left to prove, so he's happy to play that team-first role.
"Not that a younger guy wouldn't be happy to play that role - but Luke's confidence won't be knocked with the experience he has."
West Warrnambool must prevent Port Fairy from chasing down its 254-run total to win its maiden two-day match on Saturday.
The Panthers were boosted by dual centuries to Ben Threlfall and Ryan McArdle last week.
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