Local cricketers on the ball

Marc McGowan
A RAFT of local talent is descending on CaseySouth Melbourne Cricket Club and the Pakenham district is very much a part of the evolution.
Leading the charge is Pakenham based Robbie Elston, 25, who is in his second year at the club after spending three seasons with Victorian Premier Cricket counterparts Dandenong.
“It’s really good and it’s a lot closer to home for me,” Elston, who is the wicketkeeper for the firsts, said.
“The facilities at Casey Fields are going to be first class. I’m really enjoying my time here and looking forward to a bright future.”
He spent 13 years plying his trade for Pakenham UpperToomuc in the West Gippsland Cricket Association after beginning as an eightyearold in the under12s.
Elston has had a tough season with the bat, but his glovework has been as good as ever.
“I’ve taken a few catches, which is always good, and I haven’t dropped too many, which is even better,” he said.
“I’m really enjoying my keeping. It keeps me in the game all the time.”