Chris Weston Bursary winner LUKE RUSSELL reports on his time so far in the Dundein Premier League

Date: 26th January 2024

Colwyn Bay keeper/batsman enjoying the experience.

I am currently very involved in the cricket scene around Dunedin, not only playing but also coaching the youngsters from schools and various representative teams. I am representing University Grange as a keeper Batsman in the Dunedin premier league and it's been great to experience these different cricketing conditions.

My season got off to a tough start trying to get used to the soft green wickets that Dunedin cricket has to offer in the early stages of the season, however I have managed to get some scores recently and drag our team out of some tough situations to win the games coming in at 5 and 6. I am averaging just a touch under 35 in the white ball cricket and 20 across the 3 formats.

The team is a diverse mix, featuring players from the first-class Volts team, Otago A's, and promising up-and-comers, and it has been a pleasure to play with and against some of the best players the south Island of NZ has to offer. In terms of our standings, we find ourselves comfortably positioned in mid-table across the various competitions, with only 12 points dividing us and 1st place. There is also excitement in the air as we have a significant opportunity to make it to the T20 finals this Sunday. A win tomorrow vs Taieri CC (Saturday 27th) would secure our spot, and we are all keen for the challenge.

I also must express my gratitude for the warm welcome extended to me by various club members, and the people around Dunedin Cricket. Their hospitality has made my transition into the team and the area seamless, and I am enjoying being a part of this close-knit community.

Dunedin itself has proven to be a fantastic city with all the amenities you could want. It reminds me a lot of my hometown Colwyn Bay. Having lived by the beach and surrounded by mountains my whole life, I find myself quite at home here.

In conclusion, I am very grateful for the opportunities and experiences Dunedin has offered me so far, and feel I have a lot to give going into this last part of the season. I have gained so much more knowledge on the game and have been working really hard on this in the nets, so this is hopefully beginning to pay off. I am also looking forward to getting back next season in the L&DCC and having a successful year in the league. To anyone reading this I hope that you winter well and hopefully see you down at the mighty Colwyn Bay CC for a beer next season.