General News
27 August, 2021
Pelicans premiership skipper reappointed
BOOKAAR premiership skipper Heidi Stansfield is looking to build the Pelicans women’s cricket program further after being reappointed for the top job this week.
BOOKAAR premiership skipper Heidi Stansfield is looking to build the Pelicans women’s cricket program further after being reappointed for the top job this week.
The Pelicans announced Stansfield would lead its women’s side for a second season on Thursday after the 20 year-old guided the club to a flag in its inaugural season.
Bookaar defeated Pomborneit by five runs in a thrilling grand final in March, with the Pelicans claiming a wicket on the final ball of the match to triumph.
While many could have only dreamt of winning a premiership in their first season, Stansfield said with a flag now under the club’s belt, it was time to hone in with a more competitive approach to women’s cricket.
The Peterborough-based all-rounder said her side took steady steps at training and in games last season as it established its foundations but would lift its standards and expectations this year.
“I’m really excited for the season,” Stansfield said.
“I think we’ll probably step it up a notch and look to be more competitive.
“Last year was about establishing a women’s side at Bookaar but this year we want to build on our skills further and see how far we can go again.”
With the Pelicans now established in the competition alongside the Bulls and two Irrewarra teams, Stansfield expects the playing standard to go to another level.
The Colac and District Cricket Association is expected to welcome more teams this season, which the all-rounder believes will only help the competition grow.
“We played every team twice and from the second time we played everyone, each side had improved out of sight, especially Irrewarra’s youth team,” Stansfield said.
“From the start to the end everyone had improved and it’s only going to get better this coming season.
“Obviously with the more cricket you play you have more opportunity to improve so hopefully with a few more teams that will be the case.
“I think everyone (at Bookaar) is keen to go again, especially after how last year ended. Hopefully we can attract a few more but I definitely think everyone that played last year will be keen.”
Stansfield expects her captaincy role to also be made easier given she has a better understanding of her players.
Half the Pelicans squad were newcomers last season, which only added another layer of difficulty to the skipper’s job but she handled the responsibility with aplomb.
“I think it will definitely be easier because I feel I’ve figured out what our strengths and weaknesses are as a team,” Stansfield said.
“That includes what batting positions (players are best in), where they’re comfortable bowling and that sort of thing.
“I think it will definitely be easier to manage batting orders and fielding positions and ecetera (this year).”