Bacup sign Michael Smith by Nigel Stockley

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Player:

MBA Smith

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DateLine: 10th December 2009

 

Bacup have signed Eastern Province skipper Michael Smith as professional for 2010.

 

The 29 year-old has scored 2,202 First-class runs at 32.38 including a highest score of 179 not out since making his debut for Border in 2003/04.

 

His right arm off spin has accounted for just 11 victims. Smith also bowls medium pace and he has considerable experience as a league professional in England, having played for Malahide in the Leinster League (2003/04), Penecuik in the Scottish National League (2005), Fakenham in the East Anglian Premier League (2006-2008) and last season with Lullington Park in the Derbyshire ECB Premier League.

 

Bacup's new skipper Tim Farragher said: "He's predominantly a batsman and has experienced playing in English conditions many times before which, I feel, is very important for a top order player who's looking to score runs on our wickets. He was also heavily involved with junior coaching during his last professional engagement in England and we're keen for this to continue with us.

 

"The fact that he has captained both Eastern Province and The Warriors suggests that he is highly regarded back home and, hopefully, his captaincy experience will be of some help to me in my debut season as first team captain.

 

"On paper, he appears to be an ideal signing for us and we're looking forward to him coming and making a big contribution towards the continued improvement and development of our young squad."

 

Smith will be Bacup's fourth South African professional following in the footsteps of Neal Radford (1979-80), Evan Hodkinson (1982) and Brad White (1998-9).