Gotch to make Sheffield Shield debut for Bushrangers

Former De La Salle player and recently-appointed Caulfield Grammarians reserves coach, Seb Gotch, will become the 850th Victorian first-class cricketer when he makes his Sheffield Shield debut against Western Australia at the WACA this weekend.

Gotch replaces injured wicket keeper, Sam Harper, who is still recovering in hospital after he was accidentally hit in the head by South Australian batsman Jake Lehmann nearly two weeks ago.

Yep, Seb Gotch to debut for the Vics v WA at the WACA on Saturday. And he’ll be the 850th Victorian first-class cricketer. All luck to him.

— Paul Amy (@PaulAmy375) February 21, 2017

“While our thoughts and best wishes are with Sam on making a quick recovery, Seb Gotch will be given his first opportunity at the top level,” Victorian chairman of selectors Andrew Lynch said.

The promising wicket keeper-batsman has had a successful summer after he debuted for the Melbourne Stars in BBL 06, replacing Peter Handscomb after he was called up to the international side.

During his three matches for the Stars, Gotch averaged 26.33 with the bat which included a 48 in his side’s semi-final loss against the Perth Scorchers.

He caused a stir when he first put on the gloves for the Stars against the Brisbane Heat, with his short sleeves inspiring this tongue-in-cheek tweet from former Victorian keeper, Darren Berry.

Oh NOOOOOO @sebgotch please No not short sleeves as a keeper. Clubbie stuff, country C grade. At least look the part if taking the gloves ?

— Darren Berry (@ChuckBerry1969) January 17, 2017

“I get along really well with Chuck, I spent a bit of time with him at the Strikers, so I think his comments were a bit tongue in cheek even though it did cut him up a little bit, I think he was still having a bit of a laugh,” Gotch said at the time.

Feature photo: Victorian Bushrangers