Central Indians chasing premier silverware

Central Indians co-captains Shonit Chandra (left) and Andrew Gibbs (right) target a successful season after the recent merger of Rotorua Central and Bay of Plenty Indians. PHOTO/FILE

Rotorua Central and Bay of Plenty Indians have combined forces to challenge for silverware in the new six-team BOPCA Baywide premier competition.

The new format means both the Baywide and Williams Cup will be fought out over two rounds apiece, with each side playing home and away in both title races.

Bayleys Central Indians will start their Baywide Cup campaign against Cooney Lees Morgan Tauranga Boys' College away at Fergusson Park tomorrow.

Co-captain Shonit Chandra insisted it was an "essential" move to merge two of the local teams and said he wanted to see a performance played with "freedom and confidence" on the weekend.

"Both sides lost some very good players and it was the best decision to have one strong solid squad representing Rotorua instead of two weak teams," he said.

"I am delighted because we have an incredible squad of 18 and it will be difficult picking the starting lineup every week.

"Having this competition will increase the standard and the training for the last month has been incredibly positive.

"Everyone is really excited to start and we aim to win. We will field a very solid line-up and I want each player to focus on their own little goals and play their game."

But it will be a tough opening test against Tauranga Boys' College, previous Williams Cup and T20 competition winners, who have targeted a top-four finish in both competitions this season.

"It would be great if we can knock over one or two of last year's top four in the two competitions," said Tauranga Boys' College player coach Charles Williams.

"We are hoping that our Year 13 school leavers can have a big impact before they head for club cricket after the holiday season break."

If Central Indians are to clinch silverware they must also overcome the likes of defending Baywide Cup titleholders Eves Realty Greerton and last season's Williams Cup winners New World Te Puke.

But the local side have the added bonus of Northern Knights batsman Bharat Popli available for several matches.

Co-captain Andrew Gibbs said he was confident with the strength and depth within the newly formed squad.

"The amalgamation of the two Rotorua premier teams has produced a very competitive side, who we hope can successfully challenge the five Western Bay of Plenty Baywide contenders," he said.

"Along with the backbone of the last year's Central side, Indian players such as co-captain Shonit Chandra and Rohan and Himesh Gosai give the team plenty of firepower."

Chandra added: "The key to this season is all about confidence and setting simple goals.

"We will take each game as it comes. It's important for each player to be natural and feel free and play."

Saturday's fixtures:

2016/17 BOPCA Baywide Cup Draw first round:

Cooney Lees Morgan Tauranga Boys' College v Bayleys Central Indians, Fergusson Park 4, Tauranga.

Carrus Mount Maunganui v New World Te Puke, Blake Park 3, Mount Maunganui.

Element IMF Cadets v Eves Realty Greerton, Mitchell Park, Tauranga.