Dukoski answers Comets' call

Dukoski has been named alongside Queanbeyan teammates Aaron Ayre, Jono Dean and Josh Connolly in the Comets line-up that will meet the Renegades in three Twenty20 matches next Tuesday and Wednesday.

Dukoski was originally part of the Comets train on squad this season but has forced his way into the starting XI after starring with the ball for the Bluebags over the past two months.

The 22-year-old is Queanbeyan’s leading wicket taker so far this year with 17 at an average of just under 12.

 “The way I’m bowling at the moment is probably the best I’ve bowled in five years so I’m stoked with how it’s going,” Dukoski said following his Comets selection.

“I was bowling pretty well last year but with a few boys like Southy [Darren Southwell] and Blake [Dean] gone this year, I’ve had to step up with Queanbeyan and I guess it’s working out for me.

“The Twenty20 format helps my bowling as well. You’ve got to be able to bowl full and straight at the stumps and that is how I bowl [for Queanbeyan] normally anyway so it works out well.”

Dukoski also showed his potential with the bat just two weeks ago when he smashed an unbeaten 177 against City Suburban in a division two Twenty20 fixture, setting a new ACT Grade Cricket record in the process.

Aside from that one blistering display however, Dukoski is the first man to admit his form with the bat this season has been well below par. The aggressive right hander admitting he has been guilty too often of throwing his wicket away.

“More patience is definitely the key to my batting,” Dukoski acknowledged. “That’s what everyone has been telling me.

“I guess I’ve been guilty of chasing the wide ones early and not giving myself a chance to get through the new ball and score some runs. Hopefully that’s something where I can put my head down and really work on to keep my spot with the Comets.”