Top Cats picked for Victoria under-19 mission

PROMISING Geelong prospects Angus Boyd (right) and Leyton Thulborn have been rewarded for outstanding performances, named in Victoria’s under-19 team.

Boyd and Thulborn, who have forced their way into the Cats’ first XI, were yesterday unveiled in a 13-man Vic Country squad for the national championships in Adelaide.

The tournament, which runs from December 5 to 15, features the best young talent from each state as well as a Cricket Australia Under-17 XI.

Those who have been selected will prepare for the carnival throughout November through their regular club cricket fixtures, skills sessions, as well as a three-day camp in Geelong.

Bushrangers rookies Xavier Crone, Blake Thomson and Sam Grimwade are among those to have been selected in the under19 squads. In addition to the country and metro squads, Victorians Zak Evans, Mackenzie Harvey, Paddy Rowe and Will Sutherland have also been selected to compete, and will represent the Cricket Australia Under-17 XI.

“It was tough to narrow it down to 13 for both country and metro, but we’re thrilled with the makeup of the squads this year,” state talent manager Andrew Lynch said. “I know the boys are all excited too. They’ve been training hard and cannot wait to get on the park in Adelaide. It’s also great to see four of our younger guys picked to play for the CA Under-17 XI, which is reward for all their hard work and consistent performances.”