ADCA 2023-24: English all-rounder and growth of young group key parts in Royals bid to taste flag success

Royals captain Mitch Green is confident his side has the capabilities of going one better in the new Albany and District Cricket Association A-grade season. The Lions have lost the past two grand finals, falling twice to rivals Mt Barker at the final hurdle, but will enter the 2023-24 season with a similar squad. Englishman Myles Holland has returned to the UK while youngster Caleb Haua has made the move to Railways and key pair Jack Steel and Dylan Holt will not play for the club this season. The Lions, however, will be boosted by the inclusion of batsman and wicketkeeper Ryan Davies from Collingwood Park, seamer Jake Poad and the signing of talented young overseas player Rhys Lewis. Lewis comes from the Middlesex academy and has played for England’s Young Lions team, with the all-rounder expected to play a vital role with bat and ball for last season’s runners-up. Green said he believed his side was better balance this year and said they were hungry to go one better after consecutive grand final defeats. “I think we’ve got a pretty strong squad assembled again this season,” he said. “The growth of our young kids will be important, guys like Lorcan McNamara, Angus and Matt Thompson. “We’ve had a couple of decent years but we are looking to go one better this year and I think we have a pretty decent squad to do that. “This squad is really well balanced and there is a lot of room for improvement for all players.” One blow for the Lions will a serious foot injury to teenager quick Teague Valli, that will likely see him miss the first half of the season. Teague Valli led the Lions attack last year, claiming 27 wickets, and Green said he along with brother Ryley will be vital parts of their side. “Teague was fantastic for us last season and we’ll get him back,” Green said. “It will provide others with some opportunity in the first half of the year. “Ryley being back full time is a massive positive for us. “He gives us stability in our batting order and can bowl as well. “Our English player Rhys has fitted in really well and we are excited to see him in action with bat and ball.” Lincoln Joy will again play a key role with the bat for the Lions, having scored 430 runs last year. Green is hoping a season in the UK will be great for the development of Ted Batchelor and said Angus Thompson will play a bigger role with the bat this season. The Lions have the bye in the opening round before starting their campaign with a grand final rematch against the Bulls on October 28. ROYALS Captain: Mitch Green Last season: Runners-up Most runs: Lincoln Joy (430) Most wickets: Teague Valli (27) Inclusions: Rhys Lewis (Middlesex), Ryan Davies (Collingwood Park), Jake Poad Omissions: Myles Holland, Jack Steel, Caleb Haua (Railways), Dylan Holt