It was originally supposed to be a 12-month stint, but Aberdeenshire batsman Chris Venske’s stay in the Granite City is now likely to be a lot longer.
In 2013, South African Venske turned down the chance to live in Dubai for a year after deciding to spend last year in Aberdeen on a work placement with Hunting Energy Services at Portlethen.
Venske, who hails from Port Elizabeth where he played for Nelson Mandela University, had planned on being in Scotland for just a year. But, having gained employment, the batsman is staying and Shire captain Tyler Buchan could not be happier.
Venske showed his worth in devastating fashion in the opening game of the campaign last Saturday with an unbeaten 137 as Shire won handsomely at Carlton and Buchan is looking for more of the same when Heriot’s visit Mannofield tomorrow.
Buchan said: “Chris’s performance was unbelievable. It was a fantastic innings from him.
“His century was the first 100 by a local player since 2000 and I hope he is going to add many more for us.
“I didn’t expect 265 runs after losing the toss but we did exactly what we spoke about before the game in putting together one partnership of 200 and another of 60.
“That’s what you have to do if you want to win games at this level.”
Shire will be favourites to make it two wins from two when Heriot’s visit Mannofield.
But Buchan is taking nothing for granted against the Edinburgh outfit, who also got off to a winning start with victory against Forfarshire.
The Shire captain said: “Forfarshire bowled Heriot’s out for just 88 runs and they replied by skittling them for just 60 so I’ve no idea what to expect from them.
“Heriot’s beat us on their own patch last year and they are always difficult opponents so we know we will have to play well again if we are to win the game.”
Shire make one change to the team for tomorrow’s game.
Rahul Chandru drops out in favour of debutant, batsman James Musgrave, who has moved to the Granite City from Surrey due to work commitments.