The Waves will take a strong all-round team to the state championships in January after announcing the side on Monday night.

Houston rated the selection process difficult, crediting Waves region manager Stephen Field, associations, clubs and coaches for the high-calibre players coming through the ranks.

“The standard of players coming through is very impressive,” he said.

“Unfortunately five players missed out on an opportunity.

“They are all going to be excellent cricketers for the region and their clubs because they have that ability.”

Houston expects the Waves to challenge for a finals berth at the January 19-23 championships in Melbourne.

“We are really excited,” he said.

“The ones who have made the squad have to work harder now and they are all keen to take the challenge on.

“Hopefully we go down and represent the region and local associations with pride.”

Five Warrnambool and District players made the squad: Russells Creek trio Liam Brown, Sam Younghusband and Charlie Locke, Nirranda’s Brody Couch and Woodford’s Joe McKinnon.

South West duo Jack Atkins and Lachie Wareham, West Wimmera’s Louis Preston, Hamilton’s Daniel Kerber and Mitch Lang, Wimmera-Mallee’s Joe Reid and Liam Leith and Portland’s Jason Pitt were also selected.

“This year we have picked three spinners,” Houston said.

“That’s an area we have found we’ve been deficient in.

“It was important to pick spinners we thought could tie up and dry up runs.

“Just about everyone bowls. We probably have five genuine fast bowlers in the squad.

“And we have batsmen of explosive capabilities and batsmen who can soak up (pressure) if needed.” 

The Waves unveiled their under 18 and under 14 boys’ squads on Monday morning.

They are yet to announce their girls’ teams.