Canberra fast bowler Ben Oakley received a glowing endorsement from West Indies captain Chris Gayle after Thursday's Prime Minister's XI fixture at Manuka Oval.
After bludgeoning 146 in just 89 balls, the big-hitting Jamaican spoke highly of Oakley's performance who was the pick of a helpless PM's XI fast-bowling attack.
Gayle's innings slowed significantly when the Wests-UC left-armer was introduced, and the visiting captain was surprised to hear that Oakley was not contracted to a state association.
''He bowled well, honestly he bowled well, he's a local guy? He deserves one [a state contract],'' Gayle said.
The Canberra quick finished with 1-56 off nine overs, including the wicket of Dwayne Smith for 19.
Hardly economical but compared to first-class bowlers James Pattinson (0-91 off nine overs), Peter George (0-74 off six) and John Hastings (0-55 off seven), Oakley's figures looked fairly reasonable.
It was the continuation of a very productive summer for the 27-year-old who's been in damaging form for both Wests and the ACT Comets. He has taken 34 wickets in all competitions at club level this season, and a further 21 for the Comets.
Oakley was happy with his performance against the West Indies two days ago, but played down talk of a potential move into state cricket.
''If something comes my way it's all well and good, it's nice to be placed on a big stage like this, and for me it's the biggest stage I've ever played on, but I can't plan on anything like that,'' Oakley said.
For more, pick up a copy of today's Canberra Times