IN THE RUNS: Hamish Smith has forced his way into the First Grade side after returning to cricket this season after several years off. Photo: Central Western Daily
Hamish Smith doesn't like to muck about at the crease.
Despite having not played a full season of cricket since 2017/18, the hard-hitting right-hander provided an immediate impact for Orange CYMS' second grade side.
In his first game for the club on October 14, Smith strode to the crease with his side 1-0. The newcomer then went on to blast 42 not out from just 23 balls to secure an eight-wicket win over Wanderers.
Scores of 37, 2 and 57 followed and despite him being admittedly "a little rusty", Smith's scores indicated he was seeing them like beach balls.
"Back when I was a kid, I used to put a heap of pressure on myself. I always used to be better in the nets than I was out in the field. But coming back after a few years, I just went with it and started actually hitting a few."" he said.
Then came the call every cricketer wants; he'd been selected to make his first grade debut.
"I was pretty stoked about moving up to the next level," he added.
Smith's first Bathurst and Orange Inter-District Cricket Association game came during CYMS' round five match against Bathurst City. He's since featured in two more first grade matches and although he hasn't shone with the bat just yet, he's impressed enough to take over wicket-keeping duties ahead of Saturday's two-day clash against Orange City at Riawena Oval.
MAKING THE CUT: Hamish Smith on the attack during a Second Grade game earlier in the season. Photo: Central Western Daily
"I was very, very rusty on the weekend (against Rugby Union) when I picked up the keeping gloves, but it was good to bring them out again," Smith said.
"Coming into the season I thought it would be good to play first grade, but not knowing the quality, I didn't know how I'd go or how I'd see the ball after a few years off."
With CYMS sitting second on the ladder behind only defending premiers Cavaliers, Smith is hopeful the green and golds can continue their winning ways. And if he scores a few runs in the process, that would be a bonus.
First Grade take on Orange City at Riawena Oval tomorrow (Saturday 13 January, 2024) in the first day of their two-day match.
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