South Perth CC Director of Cricket Dirk Bevilaqua has given a glowing testimony to the performances and commitment of Worcestershire wicket-keeper Joe Clarke during his five months with the club this winter.
Bevilaqua said that Clarke "has converted about 100 South Perth players and supporters into Worcestershire fans through one season of dedicated, professional and entertaining cricket."
England Under-19 player Clarke scored six half centuries and a memorable century against Joondalup as well as impressing with his wicket-keeping in the Western Australian Cricket Association first grade.
Bevilaqua said: "Joe is an exceptional talent with a great work ethic. He has a great ability to read the game and make decisions accordingly.
"He has fitted in terrifically with our club and the other players immediately warmed to his sense of humour and dedication to the game. He is a fantastic team player and just a great bloke to be in a side with.
"We have had several English County players over the years, but Joe is the first one to immediately fit in and start contributing to the team.
"His batting is, at times, was mercurial, as evidenced by ramping the ball over slip to move from 97 to 101 (against Jonndalup). At other times he just showed exceptional patience to blunt an attack.
"Other County players have struggled with the bouncy wickets in Perth, but Joe had no issues. He was easily able to play the short ball, and consistently knew the right length ball to attack.
"When challenged to improve on his series of 50+ scores, Joe responded with a startling innings of 140 out of 215 for the team.
"None of our senior players, or spectators could recall seeing an innings so polished and commanding from such a young player.
"His keeping was always neat and tidy, with an emphasis on helping the others be ‘up and about’.
"The heat caused a few issues early on in the season, but Joe adapted and was able to perform in the trying conditions we occasionally get.
"In short, Joe has converted about 100 South Perth players and supporters into Worcestershire fans through one season of dedicated, professional and entertaining cricket.
"We are very keen to have him back with us for next season."
