Sidmouth plump for Aussie speedster Babula

SIDMOUTH have added Aussie paceman Daniel Babula to their squad as they attempt to wrestle the Premier title back from arch-rivals Exmouth.

Exmouth took the title off Sidmouth by 14 points last season - and the big difference between the sides was bowling.

Sidmouth were 13 points behind in bowling bonuses last season with Scott Barlow (25) their leading wicket taker.

Exmouth had Trevor Anning top of the aggregates with 32 and Gary Chappell not far behind on 29.

Sidmouth captain Will Murray hopes 26-year-old Babula may swing the balance in the season ahead.

Babula started out in Sydney Grade cricket in 2007 with Campbelltown-Camden with a modest haul of eight wickets.

He played in Victoria with St Kilda between 2008-2013, picking up 108 wickets.

Babula moved back to Manly-Warringha in Sydney for the season just coming to a close in Australia and has claimed 43 wickets at around 21 runs each.

"We don't pay anyone to play for us - just their flight and help finding a job - so we are lucky to get a guy of his calibre," said

"We didn't take enough wickets last year, certainly not early on, so we needed to strengthen our bowling," said Sidmouth captain Will Murray.

"With Daniel and also Simon Sobczak, who has rejoined us, not only do we have a bit more strength we also have bowling in reserve.

"Daniel has had a great season for Manley: 35 wickets in grade games then another eight in three finals games, plus wickets in T20.

"His record for St Kilda - that's Shane Warne's club - was pretty respectable too.”


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