FORMER Orange captain Richie Venner won’t be making a full-time comeback to representative cricket.
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Despite playing a man-of-the-match role for Orange in Sunday’s win over Cowra, Venner is happy to once again take a step back.
Venner and fellow veteran Matt Brakenridge answered an 11th hour SOS from Orange selectors, who were struggling to find 11 available players for Sunday’s clash, and immediately showed class in permanent.
Venner plundered 84 not out, and Brakenridge 60 not out, in an unbeaten 144-run fifth wicket stand.
Venner then snared 4-11 with the ball to lead Orange to its second win of the Western Zone Premier League season.
It was Venner’s first game for Orange in over two seasons, and the former Western Zone representative was diplomatic when asked if his motivation had returned.
“Yes and no,” he said.
“It was great to help out on Sunday, but I haven’t committed all year. I played because there was literally no one else available. I’d be happy to help out again in the future if need be, but I would never put my hand up to take the spot of someone who has played and committed all season.”
Venner conceded with a young family at home spare time was fleeting anyway, but admitted he feels he has plenty left to give to Orange cricket, on or off the field.
“It’s a very different group of guys to when I last played but they’re all young, keen and enthusiastic and the results are starting to come,” he explained.
“It’s great to know that somewhere along the way someone might be able to learn from me. If that is the case, and I can help the younger guys coming through, I definitely will.
“It’s great to see Orange headed in the right direction.”