Dan is the man for Drumps next term

Aug 27 2008 by Colin Paterson, Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser

DAN STEVENSON has told Drumpellier Cricket Club he wants to return to Langloan next summer.

The Australian overseas amateur has enjoyed a terrific campaign with the National League One outfit.

Stevenson has been a star with the ball, collecting 19 wickets at an average of just 16.

And as the season drew to a close last weekend, he is already eyeing a place in the Drumps first XI line-up in 2009.

Speaking after his side lost by three wickets to Stirling County in their penultimate league game of the season, Stevenson said: “It has been an excellent experience for me over here.

“Being able to test myself against some state players from back home has been amazing.

“I was disappointed we weren’t up to challenging for a promotion spot but the weather and some poor performances has cost us.

“I am already looking forward to returning next year, hopefully with Drumpellier, and hopefully I can have another good year with the ball and try and score a few more runs.”

Stevenson was the pick of the Drumps bowling attack who couldn’t prevent Stirling collecting a much-needed victory in their battle to avoid relegation.

After winning the toss at New Williamfield, the hosts put a Drumps side playing for pride, and a top-five finish, into bat.

However, the visitors were immediately in trouble at 20 for three on a wicket that had suffered from heavy rain in the lead up to the match.

Stevie Allison’s resilient 39 helped Drumps post 150 from their 50 overs.

But Stirling claimed a vital win with an over to spare, thanks mainly to the form of captain Philip Rees who hit a fine 40, as Stevenson took three wickets for 15 runs.

There was some disappointment for Stirling after they were deducted two points for not phoning in the result of the match.

Meanwhile, Drumps were left frustrated again by the weather after their last game of the season with Penicuik was washed out.

The Langloan outfit finished the campaign in fifth place with a record of six wins, six defeats and six no results. Aberdeenshire were crowned league champions.

Scoreboard:

Drumpellier: 150 (Allison 39; Anderson 3 for 29).

Stirling County: 153-7 (Rees 40; Stevenson 3 for 15).