After making an off-season move to Lake Albert, Rob Nicoll has been installed as the Bulls captain as they celebrate a milestone year.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Nicoll followed Craig Footman to the club from Wagga City and was surprised when he was offered the chance to lead one of the NSW’s oldest cricket clubs in its 125th year.
He’s taken over from Kurt Robertson, who stepped down as he looks to focus more on playing as his young family grows.
Nicoll is looking forward to the challenge.
“I didn’t come here expecting to get the top job or was even in consideration,” Nicoll said.
“It’s very disappointing Kurt couldn’t fill the role and just after pre-season they obvious see something in me.
“I like to see myself as a bit of a leader around the group so I think I’m pretty well prepared to do the job.
“There is plenty of guys with plenty of experience in the side.”
Nicoll has spent most of the last decade with the Cats but thought the time was right to make a change.
Disappointed with his form with the bat for the past two seasons, the 26-year-old is looking to start fresh.
“I haven’t really enjoyed my cricket for the last couple of years,” he said. "I want to get the best out of myself and I think the change is right to be able to do that.”
The gloveman is confident he can bring more to the table this season.
“I’ve probably kept wickets pretty well and let down the team with the bat,” Nicoll said. “In the last couple of years I’ve been pretty inconsistent but I am working really hard this year and I’ll turn it around.”
At 33 years of age, Robertson is looking to take a step back after another addition to the family.
The birth of daughter Kyah three months ago means he now has five children to look after and doesn’t have the time to commit to the captaincy.
“Family commitments are getting more and more and time is a little bit harder so I want to spend more time at home while still put in 100 per cent on the cricket field,” Robertson said.
“I have full confidence with Rob coming into the team this year, coming over from Wagga City.
“With Footy taking over the coaching they are really leading from the front.”
While Robertson has a different role this season, he doesn’t think it will alter his approach too much.
“My desire for success at this club is still as high as it ever has been and I’m happy to be around the club and in the team in whatever facet I can be.
“I'm just a proud member of the club at the moment.”
Lake Albert has only gotten stronger this season.
West Wyalong pair Brett Davies and Jesse Hampton have committed to playing a full season in Wagga, with Davies to take on the vice-captaincy.
Danny Webber has come out of retirement while the club expects Safin Shohani, who moved over from Kooringal Colts’ second grade premiership team, to make an impact.