It seems Callum Hayne has brought more than extra bowling bite to Mornington’s suddenly resurgent season – he has also brought the fun factor.
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After missing last week’s win over Kookaburras, as several Mornington players did, Hayne is back in the side for Saturday's one-day clash against competition leaders Court House at Kitchener Park.
Mornington captain Sam Lumby said Hayne’s inclusion in the side was a breath of fresh air.
“He’s a funny character to have around, that’s for sure, especially when he takes to the crease to bat – he’s pretty funny to watch,” Lumby said.
“He’s just got that little bit of a carefree attitude. But at the same time, he’s competitive.
“It’s entertaining to watch. He likes to score off everything … it’s not the best batting but it works for him. We get a good laugh out of it.”
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Hayne’s mid-season addition to Mornington’s lineup has coincided with an upturn in the long-struggling side’s fortunes.
In his second match, he claimed 8-40 off 17 overs in a first-innings win over Kookaburras two rounds back.
Lumby described Hayne’s bowling as “unbelievable”.
The two packed down together in the Bulldogs’ scrum last season – Hayne at hooker and Lumby in the second-row.
This time however it will be Hayne, the Bulldogs skipper last season, who will be taking instructions from Lumby.
Lumby said of Hayne: “He’s not overly quick but he swings the ball inwards about a foot or so when he gets it going right.
“He hits the spot well, he bowls at the stumps. He’s pretty hard to play, especially if you’re not settled. No one likes the inswinger, especially when it’s coming at the stumps.”
Indeed.
And wouldn’t Mornington love Hayne to be on song against two-time reigning premiers Court House, as they chase three straight wins for … well, you would have to go back a few years to note when that last happened.
Mornington’s recent defeat of Kookaburras was their first win since round 11, 2016.
While the win over Albion last round was posted with both sides substantially weakened due to player absences, the fact that Mornington secured very rare back-to-back victories means a lot to the club.
Lumby, who missed the match, said: “All the young fellas stepped up and got in there and got the win for us … the energy was good, good vibe around the team. That’s what you want to hear.”
