Queenslanders move to Striker blue

The Adelaide Strikers have been strengthened by two more talented interstate recruits with all-rounder Michael ‘Ness’ Neser and batsman Nathan ‘Reardo’ Reardon signing for the 2012/13 KFC T20 Big Bash League.

Reardo, who played with the Melbourne Renegades in BBL|01, had a breakout 2011/12 season for Queensland, winning their Ryobi One Day Cup player of the year. He scored 403 runs at 57.57, the second most of any player in the competition.

Ness was among the best for the Brisbane Heat in BBL|01 with the ball taking seven wickets with a strike rate of 18 and economy rate of 7.86, with best figures of 3/31.

Not only was he a key contributor with the ball but was also handy with the bat, with a strike rate of 148.65. Adding to the all-round depth along with Andrew McDonald, Theo Doropoulos and Johan Botha, Ness will play a big role in the BBL|02 campaign for the Adelaide Strikers.

Strikers coach Chuck Berry was quick to talk up the signing of his two Queensland recruits, saying they both had “game changing abilities”.

“Ness is a strong opening bowler option and all-rounder, and I believe he is one of the most exciting young talents in Australian cricket,” Berry said.

“Reardo will give us some middle-order firepower. He performed well in the Ryobi One Day Cup for Queensland so we know what he’s capable of. They are two great signings for the Strikers.”

Both players are due in Adelaide in early December, with Reardo looking forward to the challenge.

“It’s a great opportunity, and there are some very handy T20 players in the Strikers list, so I am keen to come down from Queensland and give it a real crack,” he said.

Ness said he wanted to contribute to the Strikers’ strong bowling group, saying he was “ready to provide some pace around the spinners, learn from the guys and make a solid contribution.”

Adelaide Strikers to date: Johan Botha, Theo Doropoulos, Callum Ferguson, Jon Holland, Phillip Hughes, Michael Klinger, Nathan Lyon, Andrew McDonald, Michael Neser, Gary Putland, Nathan Reardon, Kane Richardson, James Smith, Shaun Tait.

•  Have a view on this story? Send us your feedback!