Keen to shine
THE Ipswich Beenleigh Hornets make their debut in the Brisbane premier grade competition on Saturday.
But Ipswich cricket fans may have to watch the second grade side go around if they want to cheer on some Ipswich home-grown talent.
Only Mitchell Weatherhead, once of Ipswich Brothers but more recently Valley Cricket Club, will be there to represent Ipswich in the Hornets' top grade against Valley away on day one this weekend.
Laidley's Jarrod Bichel is expected to push for first grade honours but is more likely to start the season alongside other Ipswich products Brent Potbury, Tim Leschke and Sean Lutter in Reserve grade who host the Valley Reserves at Dauth Park, Beenleigh.
"We've had a good pre-season," Hornets head coach Brad Wigney said.
"The weather has been a major factor. We've been out and about in the last couple of months."
It has been a stark contrast to last season, when fixtures were cancelled due to rain.
Wigney has been so happy with the pre-season preparation, he gave the players the weekend off.
"We've had a couple of good trials," Wigney said. "And we've had some good workouts at training too."
The goals for Wigney's senior squad this year are all about improvement.
"We just want to build some continuity within the playing group," he said.
"I've never looked at silverware (as a goal).
"I want us to optimise the ability of the players.
"If they're prepared to listen and adapt to the attitude we want to develop, they will do well."
Wigney has been impressed with all the Ipswich players, with their work ethic standing out.
"And their application," he said, referring to Bichel and Weatherhead in particular.
"It looks like they come from pretty good stock.
"What I like about the Ipswich boys is there is a want there.
"I'm sure when they get the opportunity to play, they won't give it up."
NEW FORMAT
1st grade: Ipswich Logan v Valley at Peter Easton Oval, Ashgrove (Saturday).
2nd grade: Ipswich Logan v Valley at Dauth Park, Beenleigh (Saturday).
Lord Taverners: Ipswich Logan v Wynnum Manly at Dauth Park (Sunday).
