AN EXPERIENCED country week mentor is urging his under 17 squad to “play with their natural flair” in a one-off match which could determine the final shape of the team.
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Nirranda legend Corey Couch wants the talent-loaded squad – which has been selected to play a one-off exhibition match against Hamilton on Sunday – to stick to its strengths.
While no points are on offer, selectors are likely to hand-pick junior country week squads from the bout.
Warrnambool and Hamilton will also lock horns at under 15 level in a curtain-raiser for the under 17s clash.
“It’s a really strong team. Half the side just about has played division one, so they have that confidence from facing the faster bowlers,” Couch said.
“All I’ll say to the guys is to play to their strengths. They can’t be coming out and trying to create new shots and play a whole different style.
“I want them to play to their strengths because we don’t know too much about the opposition at this stage.”
Spinner Alex Jennings has been selected to captain the Warrnambool side – the latest accolade in an eventful season.
Jennings debuted with Victorian Premier Cricket outfit Northcote earlier this season and has been balancing his time between the Melbourne club, Woodford and the Western Waves.
Jennings said it was a “great honour” to lead the outfit.
The 17-year-old backed his players to make an impact in pursuit of junior country week spots.
“It’s pretty nice to be able to do that. I still enjoy the experience even without it because you’re playing with a lot of good friends,” he told The Standard.
“We’ve played against Hamilton a couple of times and it’s always a good experience – the grounds up there are really nice.
“I’ve played with a fair few of the boys through country weeks, (Western) Waves and club cricket and I’m great mates with pretty much all of them.
“I’m looking forward to it.”
Jennings will be joined by talented company.
Nestles all-rounder Bailey Jenkinson, will suit up alongside Jackson Grundy and Fraser Slattery (Woodford), while Nirranda trio Jackson Couch, Zavier Mungean and Nick Robertson have also been picked to play.
Brierly-Christ Church duo Jacob Brooks and Isaac Frusher are also in line, while Jack Holley and Patrick Douglas (Merrivale) have also been picked.
Luke Wilson (East Warrnambool) and Liam Couch (Wesley-CBC) are the sole representatives from their clubs.
Nirranda stalwart Jason Mungean will coach the Warrnambool under 15 side, while Brierly-Christ Church’s Campbell Love has been appointed skipper.
