Skilled players return to Umina

Umina Cricket Club has announced the return to the club of "several skilled players".

Club president Paul Sharpe said the players would help improve the depth and all-round performance for the 2001-2002 season.

Long time player Darren Hancock has been elected club captain.

Darren is also the head selector and brings a wealth of experience to both positions, said Paul.

Returning Umina junior Simon Blake has been appointed first grade captain.

"Simon has spent the past 16 years playing with the Northern Districts club, 10 in first grade, playing in one first grade premiership and captaining the second grade premiership side in 1999-2000."

Another returning junior is Mark Cattley.

"Mark also played with Northern District for seven years and has spent the past three years toiling away in England.

"Mark was a member of the club's 1990-91 premiership side and is a former state under 21 player."

Former first grader David Fraser has also been wheeled out to training recently.

"David is keen to make the top grade as it will be a thrill for him to play with the boys he nursed as babies."

Paul said: "All grades will be strengthened by an influx of one-day players from last season who bring with them a vast array of talent."

Fax, August 30