Boyd, who was selected as a bottom-aged player in the Western Waves under 16 squad for the Victorian Youth Premier League, takes his inspiration from father Ben.

“He has influenced me on the game day situations with my bowling,” the 14-year-old said of his father, who is the coach of Allansford’s division one side.

“He has got me to think about variations with my bowling and I’m starting to see the improvement from the advice I have received from him and other voices at the club.

“I have always wanted to play with him and hopefully I can bowl with him one day.”

Boyd’s younger brothers David, 10, and Tim, 6, have also had an impact with the sibling’s rivalry in nets sessions helping with his continued development. 

“The sessions at the nets are always quite competitive with us trying to get each other out,” the fast bowler said.

“Dad watches us and then has a bowl to us at the end of the session and he always tries to scare us.”

Boyd, who plays in the Gators’ under 15 and 17 sides and is hopeful of scoring some games in division two, was named as an opening bowler and a lower-order batsman in the 13-man Western Waves squad coached by John Houston.

The Emmanuel College student, who is also trying out for the Vic Country side, said he was eager to test himself once again.

“It’s good to step up being a bottom-age player after going to the carnival in the under 14s last year. It’s a really good experience,” he said. “I hope to bring my best to the team. Fielding wise I always look to be sharp and hopefully I can get a couple of wickets with the ball in my hand.”

Allansford has three players in the Waves squads with Steph Rea and Harry Schrama joining Boyd in the under 14 girls and boys sides, while Mortlake (six) has the most.  

Under 14 girls: Steph Rea (Allansford), Charlotte Poyner (East Warrnambool), Madeline Green (Port Fairy), Ebony Woods, Milly Illingworth (Heytesbury), Jorja and Ruby Couch (Niranda), Grace Shrama (Allansford), Hannah Rooke, Tess Worrall (Brierly-Christ Church).

Under 17 Girls: Brodie Humphrey, Taylah Casson, Shae DeFrancesco (Mortlake), Grace Farrer (Woodford), Heidi Stansfield (Nirranda).

Under 14 Boys: Oliver Martin, Simon Atkinson (Mortlake), Hugh Fleming (Merrivale), Noah Dawson (West Warrnambool), Harry Schrama (Allansford), Flynn Wilkinson (Merrivale), Noah Greene (Wesley-CBC).

Under 16 Boys: Campbell Love (Brierly-Christ Church), Ethan Boyd (Allansford), Oliver Mahncke (Mortlake), Fletcher Cozens (Hawkesdale), Joe Nyikos (West Warrnambool).