ST George Cricket Club has brought a new fire-breathing quick from England to bolster their ranks this summer.
Ben Kitt, from Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club’s second XI, has a dream of playing for England and one day terrorising Australian batsmen.
The 188-centimetre tall 19-year-old has proved just as quick off the field making travel plans. ‘‘I only had 11 days to prepare to come to Australia,’’ Kitt said.
‘‘My manager at the Notttinghamshire academy told me they were looking for a fast bowler in the Sydney grade competition.’’
His feet had hardly touched the ground on Australian soil when he started training with Saints at Hurstville Oval. Kitt was rushed straight into first grade.
On debut against Gordon at Hurstville Oval, Kitt took 6-31 in lively spells.
St George club official Hamish Solomons said Kitt’s acquisition continues a strong link with English and other players from overseas.
‘‘A few seasons back Mark Stoneman from Durham played with us and last year Adam Rossington and Matt Spriegal played second grade and they were from Northamptonshire,’’ Solomons said.
Kitt said he wants to get his pace well above 140km/h.
He is being billeted by St George club president Kevin Greene.
Rest assured cricket is the main topic of conversation at Greene’s Peakhurst home.
‘‘Everyone has been very good to me and I like it here, this is my first visit to Australia,’’ Kitt said.
‘‘Kevin and his family are very nice people.’’
He has been studying the club’s rich history since arrival..
Chatting with club officials, teammates and reading St George year books has been part of the homework.
‘‘I have learned a lot about the club,’’ Kitt said. ‘‘I learned Sir Donald Bradman played here and that St George is a pretty good club.’’
The Cornwall-born Kitt follows Plymouth Argyle FC in the League Two competition.
‘‘There was a time when I wanted to play football at a high level,’’ he said.
‘‘But then I decided on cricket, as I started playing cricket when I was six.
‘‘It has also been my dream to play cricket for England.’’
