Nick Kruger

Nick Kruger proved he had recovered from two debilitating shoulder operations in a thrilling 2005-06 grade season in which he broke a Matthew Hayden record. After making his debut as a 19-year-old in the 2003-04 Pura Cup final, Kruger missed a couple of seasons with injuries that led to him losing his state contract. A strong left-handed opener, Kruger focused mainly on grade cricket at Valley in 2005-06 and broke Hayden's club mark with 903 runs at 82.1, including scores of 206, 192 and 190. The impressive comeback earned Kruger, who has captained the QAS Colts and 2nd XI teams, a full contract with the Bulls for 2006-07. He finally collected another Pura Cup appearance two seasons ago, registering 11 and 0 against South Australia, and was used again without success later in the season. Despite the setbacks, he retained his state deal and was picked more regularly in 2008-09. He turned out in the Sheffield Shield six times, earning 330 runs at 33.00 after starting the season with two half-centuries against New South Wales.
Peter English May 2009