Dom Durman, who is leaving Ashburton to link up with brother Tom at B Division outfit Ipplepen

AUSSIE all-rounder Arun Chelvan is on his way to Ashburton for the season ahead in the Tolchards Devon League C Division West.

Chelvan, who is 27, is taking time off from his job as a dentist in the Melbourne suburbs to spend a season playing cricket in the UK.

Chelvan’s home club is Glen Waverley Hawks, who play in the Box Hill Reporter District Competition. Over the past three seasons Chelvan has played mostly in the Premier grade side, with odd outings for the A grade side. The Hawks team he played in won the Premier title last season.Arun Chelvan running in to bowl

The Hawks’ competition is a mix of two-day games played over successive Saturdays of 80 overs per side, 50-over one-day games and T20 matches. Chelvan is vice-captain of the two-day side and captain of the T20 side

Last season, Chelvan averaged 23 with the bat and took 30 wickets at an average of just 19 with his brisk medium pace. He has had a decent start to the current campaign as well.

Just before Christmas Chelvan smashed 124 not out in a winning T20 game against Mulgrave Wheelers Hill.

Overall he mas made 270 runs at an average of 45 from seven innings and has taken 10 wickets in seven bowling efforts at an average of 19. 

Ashley Berry, who is continuing as captain for a fifth successive season, said Chelvan will be a ‘fantastic addition’ to the club’s player roster.

Berry added: “The early signing of Arun is fantastic news for all involved at Ashburton.

“I’ve been told that Arun is a top clubman back home, sitting on the committee and a regular at junior training, meaning he matches our club’s values and ambitions. 

“His stats talk for themselves and I have no doubt he will be a fantastic addition. I certainly can’t wait to meet and welcome him to the club.”

Chelvan has already been in touch with his new clubmates to sound them out about the summer ahead.

He said: “I am thrilled to be joining Ashburton CC for the 2019 season. 

“I have only heard good things about the club and look forward to contributing in any way possible to get as many wins on the board as we can.

“I can’t wait to get started.”

Chelvan succeeds New Zealander Akif Sohail as the overseas player at Ashburton this summer.

It isn’t just one-way traffic into Varwell Field though as Dom Durman has left to join brother Tom at Ipplepen.

Ashes will miss left-arm seamer Durman, who took 25 league wickets at around 17 runs each last summer as well as scoring some useful runs down the order, including a top score of 33 against Kingsbridge.