AFTER spells in Australia, America and Belgium, Essex Pirates new boy Adrien Sturt has opted to follow in his father’s foot-steps by settling in Southend.

The Adelaide born 24-year-old, who stands at 6 ‘10’’ inches tall, has been snapped up coach Tim Lewis.

And he is pleased to be in a town familiar to his family.

“My father was born in Southend so I thought it would be a good fit to come play here as well,” said Sturt.

“I also came out here in June to do the Great Britain under 23 training camp and tournament and stopped in to see Tim.

“I liked the way he coached and interacted with the team.

“It was a nice set up with a good medical staff and coaching team and everything kind of just went from there really.

“When I was here Tim offered me a spot and so when I went back to Australia I spoke to my agent and he started talking with the team to sort things out.”

That eventually led to Sturt coming to Southend and he made his debut last weekend against the Worcester Wolves.

It was not the start the Australian would have been hoping for though as he bagged just five points in a game which saw his new side easily brushed aside 93-44 by the more experienced visitors.

“For both me and the team it was a frustrating night,” recalled Sturt.

“I had only been over here for a few days and was having to get over the jet lag but it didn’t go the way we would’ve liked.”

Sturt’s and Pirates’ first chance to bounce back comes on Saturday as the Leicester Riders roll in to town for a BBL Cup clash, tip off 7.30pm.

Unlike his team-mates, it will be Sturt’s first meeting with the Riders this season.

And he is keen to make a good impression.

“We are all looking forward to this game,” said Sturt.

“We have been practising very hard this week and fine tuning our offence and defence so hopefully that can make a difference.

“All the teams we play this year will be very competitive and we as a group are looking forward to the challenge, starting with Saturday.”