Justin Lynch, who played in the Tigers' 2012-13 flag, has replaced co-coaches Jeremy Burgess and Josh Stapleton in the role for the 2020-21 season.

Burgess and Stapleton will remain at the club in a playing capacity.

Lynch, 35, had a break from cricket to concentrate on football with Old Collegians. But, following his retirement 12 months ago, returned via Grassmere Cricket Association club Grassmere.

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Now he's ready to re-establish himself in the region's premier competition.

"I'll come back in and try and use my leadership qualities as much as possible and just bat in the top order," Lynch said.

"Maybe bat in the top-four and add a bit more stability there at the top for them."

Lynch, a carpenter by trade, said Merrivale had an exciting list.

"I am excited to develop some of the young kids and the mid-range players that are coming through as well," he said.

"There's a lot of promising signs at the moment. 'Stapes' and 'Burgo' have done a good job of developing some of the kids and bringing them through. It's exciting times."

Merrivale president Bill Fary said the Tigers were rapt to welcome Lynch back.

"He's as keen as mustard and it's going to be a bonus for us as well because we were lacking a bit of experience in our middle and top order," he said.

"He's slow and steady and once he gets going he's nice to watch."

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