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WAGGA City captain Dean Crane is poised to make a shock return from injury as the Cats unleash their star recruit against Lake Albert in a Wagga cricket Twenty20 clash on Saturday.
In a huge boost for Wagga City, Crane yesterday revealed he had made a dramatic recovery from a dislocated shoulder and was real chance of playing against Lake Albert.
“I’ve still got to talk to the physio, but I’m definitely hoping to play,” Crane said yesterday.
“I’ll be training this week and seeing how things go.”
For Wagga City, Crane’s declaration comes only weeks after it seemed the frontline bowler would be sidelined until the eve of the Wagga cricket finals.
Significantly, the inclusion of Crane is also likely to complement the debut of prolific batsman Jon Nicoll for the Cats.
Fresh from plundering runs at a ferocious average in the powerful Canberra domestic cricket competition, Nicoll has relocated to Wagga and will play alongside his brother Rob at Wagga City.
The acquisition of Jon Nicoll has already been touted as enough to promote Wagga City to favourite for the Wagga title – and Crane is not about to argue.
Refusing to sidestep the issue, Crane yesterday admitted the cavalier ex-Canberra batsman had given the Cats a “big lift”.
“He (Nicoll) brings a lot more to the table than just his batting,” Crane said.
“He’s got some great ideas and will bring a lot the club.
“He’ll help out with the coaching, especially with mental toughness.”
Crane said Nicoll’s lone training session with Wagga City had inspired the rest of the players.
“I think everyone got something out of it,” Crane said.
“They all want to go to a higher level.”
Crane is adamant Nicoll is ready to blast the Lake Albert attack in the Twenty20 match at Forest Hill on Saturday.
“He’s keen to go,” Crane said.
“He’ll definitely be playing.”
With Crane set to lead the Cats’ bowling and Nicoll to take control at the top of the batting order, Wagga City will have its full armoury on Saturday.
“We should be at full strength,” Crane said.
“Jono will either open or bat at first drop.”
Given the prospect of scorching weather on Saturday, Crane said the Cats would train in the “heat” this week to become attuned to the conditions.