David Saker

A wholehearted and resilient cricketer, David Saker was a valuable player for two state teams at domestic level in Australia. Saker did not enjoy a background typical of a contemporary first-class player - he was not selected in a single Victorian colts or junior representative side and changed district clubs shortly after making the state senior squad for the first time in 1990-91. But whatever 'Sakes' missed in terms of pedigree was more than offset by his dedication, determination and skill as a right-arm fast bowler. From his bustling approach to the wicket and an energetic action, Saker's accuracy and his capacity to swing the ball away from right-handed batsmen was as obvious with the old ball as it was with the new. His commitment and enthusiasm made him one of Victoria's most valued players during his six seasons with the Bushrangers and, upon accepting a lucrative offer to move further south at the start of the 2000-01 season, he became a leader in an inexperienced Tasmanian team. He was even named the Tigers' Player of the Year at the conclusion of 2001-02 after a season in which he consistently bowled his adopted state into winning positions. Also a more than handy batsman, Saker featured in stubborn partnerships toward the end of many innings and even opened the batting fleetingly for the Bushrangers at limited-overs level. His first-class career ended in 2002-03 and in 2004 he was appointed an assistant coach at Victoria under Greg Shipperd, before joining England as fast bowling coach in April 2010. Cricinfo staff April 2010