CRANBOURNE Cricket Club got the seal of approval from Brett Lee when he visited Casey Fields last Tuesday.
The injured quick took the club's under 17(1) side through its paces and, in an exclusive interview with the Journal, said he liked what he saw.
"There's some seriously great talent here. These guys are willing to learn. They've got a great structure behind them, some amazing facilities and a great opportunity to try and learn from their wonderful coaches.
"When you've got those things, it leads to a great side and a great future. The guys really enjoyed themselves."
Lee praised the atmosphere at the club. "To me, cricket is about having fun and being there with your mates, enjoying yourself. The atmosphere here is great."
Under 17(1) player Cam Petrie won a national competition to have Lee come to the club, take a training session and speak with the players over a meal.
"The boys loved it. He was a great bloke. He talked to everyone and made sure everyone was involved," Petrie said.
"For the fast bowlers, he taught them a couple of things and helped them sort out their bowling.
"He sat at the same table with us, we had dinner and we asked him any questions we wanted."
Lee said he was "progressing well" with his surgically repaired elbow. "I'm looking forward to hopefully playing IPL and then Twenty20 World Cup and then just go from there."
When his career is over, he intends to focus on his fashion label, music and lifestyle TV presenting.
"I'll move away from cricket but also have a keen eye on what the youth are doing. It's very satisfying to see these young guys."