Departing East Ballarat recruit Blake Thomson said the Ballarat Cricket Association served as ideal preparation for the upcoming Victoria Premier campaign, and hasn't ruled out returning to the Hawks later in the season.
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The 22-year-old played his last game for the club last week after temporarily coming aboard while Melbourne was in lockdown. He has since returned to Melbourne Cricket Club, where he hopes to build on last season's career-best form.
If he does so, he might have the BCA to thank.
"It was awesome being back, there are a lot of people in Melbourne who haven't even had a hit on turf yet, whereas I've played full games and a couple of practice games," he said.
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"It was really good preparation for me."
Thomson left his imprint at the club, compiling 177 runs over four matches.
His consistent efforts helped secure the Hawks a perfect record after four matches.
"It's a fair bit different in Ballarat from Melbourne," he said.
"Wickets are different , grounds are different and slowing my body down to catre for a little slower bowling proved a bit of a challenge, but it was a good challenge because I get that kind of bowling in Melbourne too."
Thomson will now turn his sights on one-upping last season's form which saw him compile 719 runs at an average close to 60 to be named in the Victorian Premier Cricket team of the year.
If his form holds, he might earn a place back on the Victorian Bushrangers' list - something he desperately wants after playing three one day games for the club in 2018.
"I've got my own little goals set for myself, I want to be just as good if not better this year and try and put my name forward for a contract again," he said.
"Anything that comes my way I'll take. I'd love to get back with the Vics and try and cement myself this time."
Depending how thing pan out, Thomson didn't rule out returning to the Hawks later in the season.
"If Melbourne doesn't go the way I want it to and if it all works out, I'd love to come back and try and win a premiership with them," he said.
"I have one Tuesday off a month, so I'll train with them and help them out in any way that they want.