Scott Nicoll will make a rare appearance in Wagga City’s first grade outfit for their doubleheader this weekend.
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Nicoll, the older brother of Cats star Jon and coach Rob, comes into the side to replace Aaron Maxwell for both the Twenty20 against Lake Albert on Friday night plus the top-of-the-table clash against South Wagga on Saturday.
The 34-year-old had to wait over 10 years for his first recall to the top grade in the 2016/17 season and is pleased it wasn’t the same case this time around.
“I didn’t have to wait 10 years this time,” Nicoll said.
Nicoll made 53 not out in his last bat in second grade and also has an unbeaten 48 to his credit this season.
He’s looking to make the most of the opportunity.
“In the last 12 to 18 months I think my game has really come on and I’ve been pretty consistent in seconds,” Nicoll said.
“I’ve had a lot of help from Jono, who if you need a mentor there is no better bloke in terms of preparation, and this week I’m only filling in but it is an opportunity.
“For me I’ve just got to prepare well Monday to Friday to give myself a chance and if it comes off, it comes off, and if it doesn’t then that’s cricket.”
Maxwell is a massive loss for the side who will be set a good chase by the Blues.
They made 5-252 from their 80 overs and have the option of batting for up to another 16 more.
Cats captain Josh Thompson is preparing to continue bowling when play resumes at McPherson Oval.
“I expect them to bat on as 250 is probably a bit below par considering how well they batted,” Thompson said.
“They were very reluctant to score in some periods of the day and we made 230 off 40 overs a couple of weeks before that.
“It’s in the back of our minds as it’s a very good cricket ground so we’re looking forward to the challenge.”
Maxwell leaves a big hole at the top of the Cats order, but Thompson is confident Nicoll can step up to help fill the void.
“Aaron Maxwell is a massive part of out team and is our go to guy with quick runs so obviously it is a big loss,” he said.
“But Scott Nicoll has been batting well in second grade for a long period of time now and has probably deserved to have a go in first grade before now, but he gets his opportunity this week and hopefully he can do a great job.”
South Wagga only has the four wickets in hand with Warren Clunes 19 not out after day one, but his place in the side will be taken by Terry Willis.
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