Nulla missed out on the finals last year by the narrowest of margins as the team finished in sixth position but were equal on competition points with the fourth-placed Wauchope RSL, who snatched the last finals spot.

Nulla missed out as they had a worse percentage, which was largely due to their struggles with the bat in hand.

However, Taylor claims those issues should be mended as their batting depth has improved drastically.

“We are looking good and confident leading into the new cricket season,” Taylor told the Argus.

“We have five ex-Nulla players returning to bolster the squad.

“Most of the additions are batsmen, an area we needed strengthening in last season.”

Nulla, led by spin bowler Taylor, had one of the most threatening bowling attacks in the competition last season.

However, their inability to post high run totals cost them a finals berth.

Taylor is hopeful the new additions will help them reach the knockout stages in the competition’s second year.

“We would like to make the finals this season and give ourselves a shot at the premiership – that’s the aim,” Taylor said.

“There is also an opportunity for a separate T20 trophy too.

“It’s all talk until we’re on the field though.”

While Taylor’s focus is on earning success with Nulla, he also acknowledges the valuable role of developing the club’s junior players who have shown potential to play at a higher level.

“I believe the biggest positive of the Premier league competition is that it gives those potentially elite juniors a competition to strive for and the ability to play in a competition with a bit better standard rather than the same old thing every week,” Taylor said.

“The organizers and sponsors have done a great job with the premier league so far.”

Nulla will play at home for the season opener against the Port City Leagues Magpies.

The competition is a 40-over one-day format and there's nine teams competing in the Premier League.

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