Appearing in his first season for the Firebirds, Australian Cameron Merchant has been making his mark on the run total for the Wellington team.
The Sydney sider moved to New Zealand to take up a position with the Northern Knights two seasons ago before making the move to the capital this season. In five rounds of Plunket Shield he has already scored 496 runs at an average of 49.60 and a highest score of 108. He’s also had a 99 for the Firebirds this season. “That was my first ever 99,” Merchant said. “I’ve scored a few 90s for the Firebirds but at the end of the day I’m happy. I’d like to push on and get bigger and better scores.”
So far Merchant has batted as an opener, first drop, second drop and third drop. He doesn’t mind where he comes in on the batting order – he just wants to contribute to the team and help them clinch victory. “It’s something that doesn’t really faze me. It keeps it interesting and keeps me on my toes.”
The 25 year old has been picked as one to watch in the HRV Cup starting in January and Merchant is hoping he can continue on his good form into the shortest form of the game. “The HRV Cup will be exciting especially with some big overseas players coming over,” he said. “If I can get a crack at it, it would be magic.”
Merchant on the Firebirds and Wellington.
“It’s a great city and I enjoy being here. When the sun is out it’s even better! The guys are great and I’m settling in well.”
Merchant on his cricket goals
“I want to do the best I can and enjoy the cricket and the places I visit with the Firebirds. It would be magic to be part of the side for the HRV Cup but at the moment I’m just taking every day as it comes and just having fun.”
Merchant on his secret talent
“I can sleep anywhere! It’s a handy skill to have especially when I’m on planes.”
