We caught up with last year's winning skipper Zac Smith, to get his thought ahead of Wombourne's title defence.
As the holder’s you’ll be contending with a different dynamic this time around, some would say that being the chasers is somewhat easier than being chased. What do you need to do to keep the title in WV5 this competition?
I think the way we went about our business last year will be the same mindset going into this year’s competition. We have an explosive batting lineup & we back ourselves for 2/3 batsmen to get a score every innings. We also have a very dynamic bowling attack. So, if they combine well again… we won’t be far away. I don’t feel there is much pressure on us even as holders, as we are still an underdog. We aren’t expected to win it every year, I like us being under the radar, so we’ll see.
Away from the floodlit this year you come into the tournament on pretty good form, you’re just outside of the top 2 in the Staffs Premier. Any concerns that this long week of cricket may hinder your freshness ahead of Saturday?
Not at all. If you go off last year, we were in the Himley clubhouse until 2am & we still won on the Saturday. I still remember Jimmy walking into the club holding the trophy on the Saturday morning, shades on… let’s hope for more of that.
Finally, it’s going to be a big week of cricket, we look forward to this all summer. How is it playing under the lights in front of big crowds for this great cause?
It’s a great pleasure to be involved in this competition. The atmosphere is electric throughout the week and a lot of money is raised for a great cause. The Whistle Foundation does a fantastic job in providing more opportunities in sport for children, something that we as a club value massively. We hope to be a part of this week for many years to come. Looking forward to get going on Monday!!!