Zimbabwean all-rounder going back to Bovey for a second stint

Luke Jongwe - returning to Bovey for a second spell

By CONRAD SUTCLIFFE

FORMER Zimbabwean international Luke Jongwe is on his way back to Bovey Tracey next season for another crack at Premier Division cricket in the Tolchards Devon League.

All-rounder Jongwe, who will be 25 when the season stars in May, was Bovey Tracey’s overseas player in 2017. He scored 550 league runs – including an unbeaten hundred against Exmouth – and took 20 wickets with his medium-pace bowling.

Jongwe turned out for Morecambe in the Northern Premier League in 2018 and was engaged by Read CC in the Ribblesdale Cricket League last summer. He appeared in 22 one-day internationals for Zimbabwe between 2014-2016.

Toby Codd, who is continuing as Bovey’s captain for a third season, said Jongwe was a good fit as club professional.

"Luke is a genuine all-rounder who will give us depth with bat and ball,” said Codd.

“He is a destructive middle-order batsmen who is currently performing well in First Class cricket in Zimbabwe.”

Jongwe is currently featuring for Tuskers in the same side as Brian Chari, who was Bovey’s overseas player last summer, and 2018 Ivybridge import Charles Kunje.

Bovey were just one more defeat away from relegation out of the Premier Division last season and were relegation candidates for most of the 2018 campaign.

Squad strengthening has been a must for Codd if Bovey are going to avoid another struggle to stay up.

Local talent has been hard to procure, so Codd has had to look to the other side of the world.

“We have had no luck with local players yet as everyone seems to want money,” said Codd.

“Having said that I have been speaking to a couple of players who are potentially keen.

“We have signed Elliot Morris from Western Australia who has a UK passport. 

“Elliot is a spin-bowling all-rounder who plays First Grade in Western Australia and has recently played for Western Australia under-19s. 

“He looks a talented young player who should fit in on and off the field.”

Bovey’s pre-season training starts at South Dartmoor Community College in Ashburton on the first Sunday in March. 

“We will be there every Sunday in March before heading outdoor in April,” said Codd, who said a warm welcome awaits any potential new players.