Locals win state selection

Local cricketers Kim Drew, Jonah Serong, Wilson McGillivray and Sam Whibley have launched into the season following state selection in recent weeks.

WDCA rising talent Kim Drew and Jonah Serong were selected in the under 17 Victoria Country team that played at the national championships in Queensland from September 26 to October 6.

Both players had an outstanding season last year at both junior and senior level and were the only Gippsland Pride players who made the final selection table.

Meanwhile, Wilson McGillivray and Sam Whibley were selected to partake in the 2016 Country v Metro under 19 trial series.

Victoria under 19s announced four squads to partake in the tournament, which was played from September 19 to 22 with two Twenty/20 and two one day fixtures across the week played in dual grounds at Barooga.

McGillivray lined up for Victoria Country Green, while Whibley played for Victoria Country White. They competed against the Victoria Metro Blue and Silver teams.

The series provided an opportunity for players to showcase their skills in front of a wide range of coaches and selectors.

Those successful across the series, which will also tested the players’ skills, game sense, travel management and ability to interact in a close team environment, will take part in the national championships in December, providing another opportunity to perform on a national stage.

Both McGillivray and Whibley also had strong seasons last year, with the latter winning player of the under 18 state carnival.