by Aerie » Thu Feb 25, 2016 5:36 pm
It does seem they are giving more opportunities to South Australians which is a good thing. Good form at lower level has seen Raphael, Carey, Weatherald and Lehmann get given games and all have shown they are capable (Lehmann especially so). There was criticism there was too much of a gap between Grade and State, but if these players can come straight in and get to 50 then perhaps it is more about giving opportunities to players in form than otherwise.
Unfortunately at the top end, our only A grade batsman is injured and those you'd expect to consistently contribute have horribly under performed. Ludeman and Cooper have already been shown the door and Cosgrove can't be far behind. Head also has been disappointing in this form of the game and everyone seems to just be waiting for him to become good, but perhaps he lacks the application to make it in the purest form of the game? He shouldn't be captain and should concentrate on doubling his season average of 23.
The bowling stocks seem solid. Again, strong performers at Grade level have been able to come in and play a role.
Realistically, the Redbacks have probably had a better season than I expected, but still the same problem of not having enough batsman share the load. They also miss Ferguson, Sayers and Richardson - although State sides should expect to lose their top few players and have cover below.