After being appointed to skipper his lifelong club, the 22-year-old made just 98 runs at an average of 10.9 in the firsts in 2013-14.

But Whittaker put last year’s disappointment behind him with a brilliant start to the Hawks’ new campaign, reaching his maiden first 11 century in last Saturday’s triumph over North Ballarat.

Whittaker, batting at number five, made 117 as East cruised to a big win against the Roosters.

“The situation of the game wasn’t really important but after the year I had last year, to get some time in the middle and get some runs was great,” Whittaker said.

Whittaker said last season was difficult to give direction and have confidence in his ability as a leader and player.

“I just want to be able to contribute and lead for a team I’m hoping will progress on with the steps we made last year and push forward,” he said.

“I suppose if one of the 11 is not contributing, which was me last year, it’s a real liability.

“Just to be able to contribute is all I ask for myself.”

Whittaker, who has played in three junior premierships with the club, said finals was the major goal this season.

“It’s everyone’s goal, but for us this year, it’s a realistic goal. Anything underneath that I’ll deem to be an underachievement,” he said.

East will welcome Brighton recruit David Armstrong into the team for the round two clash with Coronet City, starting this Saturday.

Armstrong is a top-order batsman and is one of three changes to the side that beat North.

Also coming in is last season’s best and fairest Josh Brown and North Ballarat recruit Cam Carter.

Coronet City is looking to bounce back from a tough opening round defeat at the hands of Ballarat-Redan, but will have gained some confidence following a determined run chase.

The City boys kept the Combine in the field all afternoon on day two, finishing at 8-228 in pursuit of 384.

There is just one change to the side to take on the Hawks, with batsman Nathan Clarke getting the call-up.

tim.oconnor@fairfaxmedia.com.au