Ben Hillard hits out against Parkfield in Turf Three action at Hallam Recreation Reserve on Saturday.
– Marc McGowan
HALLAM Kalora Park Cricket Club is shoring up its future by implementing a youth policy in its Turf Three side and it’s paying dividends.
Leading the charge is 14-year-old Hampton Park all-rounder Ben Hillard, who has been sporting the cricket whites for Hallam Kalora Park’s Turf Three side since last season, and who took up the sport five years ago.
He doubles up on weekends by playing in the top division at under-15 level in the Dandenong District Cricket Association.
Hillard juggles wicketkeeping duties with his batting and even takes to the bowling crease at times.
The youngster cracked his highest score at Turf Three level of 69 against HSD in round one, and is averaging 17.2 overall.
His form in junior competition has been even more impressive where he has averaged 69 with the bat and snared four wickets at 24 runs apiece.
“There are a couple of other young guys in the team as well,” Hillard said.
“I’ll just play for the highest level that I can.”
