DURABLE fast bowler Nathan Fitzgerald has taken 400 wickets across the grades for Sutherland but the honour of playing for NSW has eluded the right-arm speedster.
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On Saturday in the match against Easts at Waverley Oval, Fitzgerald took 1-48 to achieve the milestone of 400 grade wickets for Sutherland.
The Helensburgh junior has become one of the Sydney grade competition's best performers.
"I think the chance to play for NSW has passed me by," a modest Fitzgerald, 30, told the Leader.
He says captaining Sutherland, who are sixth on 30 competition points, is a privilege and an honour.
Fitzgerald said seeing the good blend of experience and youth in the team drives him.
Sutherland Cricket Club historian Tom Iceton said Fitzgerald's record in all grades stands at 400 wickets, averaging 21.04.
"In 136 first grade matches, he has taken 274 wickets at 21.24.
"Nathan's best season was in 2012-13 when he was the leading wicket-taker in the Sydney competition, taking 59 wickets, averaging 15.24.
"In the last three seasons he has 131 wickets at 17.90. This season he has 21 wickets, averaging 20.48."
Included in this season's haul is a super effort of 9-102 against Sydney at Glenn McGrath Oval.
The tall fast bowler runs electrical supplies wholesaler TLE Electrical at Menai.
He said he still has the spark and enthusiasm to play the game, and a hunger for wickets.
"There is a lot of talent in the team and this season the young guys have stepped up," Fitzgerald said.
"All the players have contributed."
What do you think about the achievements of Sutherland first grade cricket team skipper and fast bowler Nathan Fitzgerald?
