A Geelong cricket veteran of several decades has had a huge impact from his opening games of a tour of the United Kingdom.
The evergreen Thomson all-rounder was part of the 16-man, over 50s Australian squad which jetted to the UK last week for 10 fixtures between June 14 and July 4.
The itinerary includes a three-game Ashes series, plus matches against Ireland, Wales, India and English counties Sussex and Essex.
Dew, a veteran of Geelong cricket of several decades who has played with his two sons in the Tigers’ first grade team the past few summers, took two wickets against the Green Isle on Tuesday in Dublin.
A “super excited” Dew said receiving his baggy green – cap number 78 – was an “incredible honour”.
“I am absolutely stoked,” Dew said.
“So far the tour has been a great experience travelling to different places and playing in different conditions.
“Singing the national anthems prior to the game is pretty special. The support from home has been amazing with many messages coming through
“Our families are here sharing this with us as they have been on the journey as well.”
Held at Pembroke Cricket Club, the Aussie veterans easily beat Ireland by 88 runs — the first time the two countries have met at this level.
After Australia posted 5-236 off 45 overs batting first on a “challenging, two-paced wicket”, Dew claimed 2-20 with his off-spinners as the home side was bowled out for 148.
“They came out well which was nice, it was the second time outside since the (GCA3 first grade) grand final but was really nice to get the first wicket,” he said.
“I think you can see the relief when I got the first wicket.”
Dew bowls for Thomson against Bell Park in the GCA3 first grade grand final.
Dew continued his strong form with 3-14 off nine overs against Wales on Wednesday in a two-wicket loss in Swansea.
The tour, which wraps up on July 4, represents a chance for the team to vie for a spot at the upcoming World Cup in Sri Lanka in February next year.