Greytown are intent on shedding the bridesmaid's tag in Wairarapa club cricket in the 2009-10 season.
They were runners-up to Lansdowne in both the Bidwell Cup two-day competition and the Umpire's Cup one -day series last season and have mustered a side which looks capable of going one better this time
round.
Englishman Steve Coleman,, who played a big part in the success of the Rathkieale Academy side two years ago, has returned to the Wairarapa after a stint in Australia and will fill the role of player-coach for Greytown.
His all-round skills as a medium pace bowler and hard-hitting middle order batsman will make him a valuable acquisition for the southerners.
Coleman is not only the major gain for them though.Also joining them next month will be Central Districts age group representative Dean van Deventer, a lively pace bowler and accomplished batsman who has spearheaded the Rathkeale first XI over the past few seasons, as well as shining for the Wairarapa senior men's team..
With Central Districts Stag paceman Seth Rance also in the Greytown squad they will have a formidable attack,particularly if former Wairarapa rep Hayden Spierling makes an expected comeback as well.
There is quality in depth too in the batting department, what with experienced campaigner Mark Childs, Jake Ross, Paul Lyttle, Blake Lyford and Wairarapa wicket-keeper Duncan Didsbury all fronting up again.
Club cricket in Wairarapa doesn't actually get under way until October 10 but Greytown are hosting a tournament this weekend which will also involve three Wellington clubs, Onslow, Johnsonville and University Old Boys
Saturday's play will.see limited overs matches played at Greytown and Rathkeale College while on Sunday all four teams will contest a Twenty20 tourney at Rathkeale.
Lansdowne again looks the main danger to Greytown in the Bidwell Cup and Umpire's Cup competitions. They have lost a number of players from last season but still have the likes of Wairarapa reps Sam Curtis, Robin James, Alex Treseder, Mark Scully and Dane Buchanan to call on.
