Ex-Australian Test cricketer James Pattinson has made a return to where it all began, trading in his spikes and whites for a shot at glory with Southern Football and Netball League outfit Doveton in 2023.
Pattinson's return to Robinson Reserve comes after the 32-year-old's decorated career for both country and state with a cricket ball in hand.
Across the course of his time at the popping crease, Pattinson accrued 21 Test caps for Australia, as well as representing his country in 15 ODIs and four T20 internationals.
The fearsome fast-bowler also represented Victoria with aplomb over 15 years, racking up 350 first-class wickets.
While Pattinson's exploits with the four-piece have made him a household name, the quick will feature for Doveton in 2023.
"Jimmy Pattinson returns to the Doves," a club statement reads.
"The Pattinson name is well know at Doveton with his father John being Club President in 2002 & 2003 and brother Darren also playing footy at the Doves.
"For the first time since 2007 Jimmy returns to A J Robinson Reserve in a Green and Black football jumper."
"After his junior career at Doveton feeder club Narre Foxes playing in a Premiership Under Doveton legend Steve Henwood, Pattinson last played for Doveton in the 2007 Under 18 Grand Final before retiring from footy to concentrate on his cricket.
"Out of the whites and back to the Green and Black jumper, Patto is super excited to be pulling on the boots again with some of his junior and senior team mates still playing at the club and is eager to play in a Senior flag."
Pattinson had noted injuries to be a factor in his decision to stop playing cricket at the professional level, with the veteran pace bowler requiring surgery on his wrist later this year.
He will be hopeful of featuring in the Doves' senior side in 2023 as the club looks to improve on their 13-win tally in the second division this year.
