Lakes Entrance will begin its 2026/27 Bairnsdale Cricket Association campaign this Saturday with an away fixture against arch rival Orbost at the Orbost Recreation Reserve, however rain appears likely to play a key role in whether or not the game goes ahead.
The Seagulls, who finished fifth last season and missed the finals by just two points, will feature a fresh new look.
Reigning Bairnsdale Cricket Association Cricketer of the Year Scott Davidson has joined the club as captain-coach, while the squad will also welcome UK imports Liam Clorley and Reece Gray. Clorley is a top-order batsman who bowls off-spin, while Gray is a seamer who bats in the lower-middle order.
One of last season’s imports, Scott Tite, now lives in Australia and will remain with the club this season. The fast bowler has impressed in practice and looks set to improve on his efforts from last season, where he delivered strong performances when everything fell into place.
The club’s only significant departure from last year’s campaign is batsman-spinner Ollie Chaplin.
Kaleb Day will face a delayed start to the season due to an ankle injury, but key senior players remain available and eager to compete. Liam Allen has returned following six months playing cricket in the UK, while Ben John is hitting the ball well ahead of the opener.
Batting was a major concern for the Seagulls last season, and the squad will view the batsman-friendly Orbost wicket as an ideal opportunity to establish strong early-season form.
Lakes Entrance will be determined to launch the Davidson era with a victory, while Orbost will be equally keen to rectify its second-half decline from last season.
After winning their initial four matches and looking dominant, the Blues’ form tapered off, managing just five wins for the season as a combination of byes and washouts disrupted their momentum.
Premiership captain Max Welsh represents a major inclusion for Orbost, returning to the club following a stint with Sale-Maffra Cricket Association club Stratford.
The Bairnsdale Cricket Association lower grade and junior competitions are scheduled to start next weekend.
