Australian’s unconventional wicket-keeping style backed by Harrogate skipper Ross

Gate’ Australian stepped into Potter’s shoes when the first choice ‘keeper missed last week’s victory over Appleby Frodingham and was maintained behind the sticks on Potter’s return this week.

Ryan has not conceded a bye in the two matches, despite his uncharacteristic style of wicketkeeping without pads or a helmet.

“I have never seen a keeper keep quite like him. He doesn’t wear any pads or wear a helmet but it doesn’t matter because his glove work is that good,” said Ross.

Ryan will continue to stand behind the stumps in this week’s crunch clash against reigning Yorkshire League champions Yorkshire Amateur.

‘Gate beat the county youngsters earlier in the season and can take confidence from a memorable chase against Driffield Town at the weekend.

Driffield left Gate facing a mammoth victory task with centuries for their overseas Ali Asad and junior George Drury.

But usual tailender Sam Davies cracked 37 from 15 balls at the top of the order before Ryan (70), Jonny Tattersall (78no) and James Latham (89no) took Gate to a comfortable eight-wicket win.

“It was a great win,” said Ross.

“It’s always a hard place to go as it’s a bit of a fortress so it was nice to come away with eight points.

“But it was great to see us chase down so well.

“To do that was quite a message to the league.

“It throws down a marker that we are gathering back some momentum and that we are back in contention.”

Do you have a sporting quirk? Have you played with a teammate with a unique style?

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