Representative cricket
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LEETON will open its Creet Cup defence on Sunday at Mark Taylor Oval against a West Wyalong outfit keen for revenge.
It was this game last season against West Wyalong at Ron Crowe Oval that the Wolves opened their rep account, inflicting a psychological and physical blow against the home side.
While much water has flowed under the bridge since then, games between the two associations always produce a contest and Sunday will be no different.
Leeton's senior representative team is coming off an embarrassing 214-run loss to Griffith in the SCG Shield last month, but this weekend will play under a different captain and have a new-look side.
Brent Lawrence returns to the captaincy after Steven Weckert filled in against Griffith. Lawrence is a past Creet Cup captain and is back in the role after a stint in Cricket Albury-Wodonga and returning to the Leeton association two years ago.
"I'm looking forward to the challenge," Lawrence said.
"I haven't done much captaincy over the last few seasons, but I've got some pretty clear ideas of how I want the team to play."
Lawrence had a hand in selecting the team, aiming for a more experienced look. Into the side come form players Ben Elwin, Kieran Moon, Chris Cox and Justin Kelly.
"I know West Wyalong is going to bring across an experienced side," the captain said.
"We've got a good mix of up and coming youth and experience."
Steve Weckert missed club duties last week with a back injury, but is expected to be fit for Sunday.
"We do need him as part of the team, he is in good all-round form," Lawrence said. "I'm happy with the line-up. There are other members of the squad that were unlucky to miss out, but we'll continue to look at each of them on their merits.
"Quite a few members of the team were there last year and they know what we stand for and they will pass that on to those new players."
Lawrence felt the change in personnel meant there should be no hangover from the SCG Shield game.
"They were chasing a formidable total in the first rep game," he said.
"They hadn't had the chance to form relationships so I am not looking too much into that performance."
With his focus squarely on West Wyalong, Lawrence has an idea what to expect from a powerhouse association that punches well above its weight.
"From experience they like to bowl first," he said. "They get on the front foot in that regard.
"They are a very experienced team and we have heard a rumour (former Leeton cricketer) Matt Curry might play this weekend.
"Their strength is that they are able to score quickly, they are not afraid to throw the willow at it. They are able to get off to quick starts and if they hold their wickets they are capable of 200 and beyond.
"We are looking to get our Creet Cup defence off to a good start. We want to have fun and if we're successful that's a bonus."