Claremont Legend Jye Bolton Attracts First Local Suitor After WAFL Retirement
Following his retirement from a brilliant WAFL career with Claremont, two-time Sandover medallist Jye Bolton has revealed his phone has been buzzing with interest from local clubs across Perth and regional Western Australia, as well as State league sides. The first public suitor for the football star has now emerged, with the incoming coach of last year's South West Football League wooden spooners expressing hope to woo Bolton to their club.
Harvey Bulls Aim for Major Coup with Bolton Recruitment
Coaching great Mark Bayliss has been lured back to Harvey Bulls, a club he led to three Peel Football League premierships before their move to the SWFL in 2009. The Bulls, who finished at the bottom of the SWFL ladder last season with only two wins, have already secured former Tigers players Matt Palfrey and Coen Jackman for their 2026 campaign. They are now aiming to pull off a significant coup by adding Bolton to their growing list of recruits.
"We're confident," Bayliss said when asked about their chances of attracting Bolton to the club. This move signals a bold strategy to revitalise the team after a challenging 2025 season.
In November, Bolton shared his desire to remain involved in football, stating, "I feel as though letting close to 20 years being in a senior program go to waste and the knowledge I've been able to build up over that time would be a bit of a shame." He added that he is open to coaching or playing roles, as he believes he can still contribute to a team, though the specifics are yet to be determined.
Ashton Turner Returns to Premier Cricket After BBL Triumph
Less than a week after leading Perth Scorchers to another Big Bash League title, Ashton Turner was back in action for Fremantle in Premier Cricket. However, he was outshone by long-time WA teammate and friend Cameron Bancroft, who starred with an unbeaten 81 to help Willetton claim first-innings points over the Port Boys at Burrendah Park.
Turner scored 25 before being bowled by seamer Zach Ferris, as Fremantle were bowled out for 122. Bancroft's performance was pivotal, with Willetton overhauling the target with seven wickets remaining. Turner was the only Scorchers player from the BBL final to return to Premier Cricket, with teammates like Jhye Richardson and Aaron Hardie held out.
WA's Sheffield Shield captain Sam Whiteman, who does not hold a BBL contract, made nine for the Port Boys. Willetton are likely to be without Bancroft when the match resumes, as WA begins a Shield clash with Tasmania at the WACA Ground.
Harry Taylor Smashes Big Score in Regional Cricket Clash
The namesake of Geelong legend Harry Taylor has shown his own sporting prowess, with Harry Taylor smashing 218 to lead Kojonup to a dominant 340-run victory over Australs in the Great Southern Cricket Association. Taylor, an accomplished country footballer who has excelled in the Lower South West Football League and South West Football League, delivered one of the standout performances of the season.
According to game management platform PlayCricket, his score ranks as the third-highest in cricket played around Western Australia this season. The top individual effort for the 2025-26 summer remains Sam Pope's 257 for White Knights Baldivis in a Peel Cricket Association Female A-grade clash.
