CHARLIE Cull jokes his body getting through a game of cricket is reason enough to celebrate.
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But the Wagga RSL newcomer hopes to continue a strong start to life at his new club and mark his 31st birthday in style against Lake Albert at Geoff Lawson Oval on Saturday.
Cull has dealt with a handful of niggling injuries in recent years, but is keen to take cricket more seriously after a long tenure playing mostly second grade for Sydney University in the grade competition.
The all-rounder has settled in well with bat and ball for the Bulldogs. He claimed 2-30 with his seamers and finished unbeaten on 37 not out in the season opening loss to South Wagga, before backing up with 1-14 and 24 in last week's victory against St Michaels.
"I'm happy enough (with my start). I feel like I'm slowly easing into things," he said.
"It (bowling and batting) seems to have both come together a little bit, which is nice when you're supposed to be an all rounder. Its usually good when you have won going well, but if it's both it's even better.
"I've been batting at seven and opening the bowling, so far the body is holding up and it's been a lot of fun.
"It's a good competition and I haven't played properly for a number of years. It's been good to get the chance to dust the skills off and ease back in. Every week I'm trying to do things a bit better."
Cull said injuries meant backing up after a spell became very difficult, but is pleased with how he's been getting through his overs.
"There was a time when I'd have a spell and I'd have to rest for two or three hours to bowl again," he said.
"It's a celebration if my body gets to the other end and I'm still going. Every week's a win if I still feel like I'm functioning.
"Moving to Wagga I had more time and the head space, and wanted to get involved in the town. I had a friend who was playing for Wagga RSL and they're a fantastic bunch of guys, I've really enjoyed it."
Both teams enter the match with one win from two matches. Cull said the Bulldogs' bowlers recovered well to dismiss St Michaels for 183 last week after they were 3-144 at one stage.
Wagga RSL successfully chased the runs down with three wickets and three overs in hand.
"We've worked hard each week executing our team plan," he said.
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