Brody Couch is working to ensure his second pre-season in the Victorian system will take his aerobic ability to the next level.

The Nirranda export wants to improve his athleticism as he pursues a Sheffield Shield debut.

Couch, 21, earned a Marsh One-Day Cup cap this past season and spent time with Big Bash League franchise Melbourne Renegades. He told The Standard that taste of professional cricket delivered several key learnings.

"I've set out to become a lot fitter and I think I've handed myself relatively well in that space. I'm feeling pretty fit and strong to give myself the best chance at playing at state level this year," he said.

"It's so just been building up my work loads. Last pre-season, my first year in the squad, I was on a lighter program. I was only in there three days a week whereas this season I've been in four weekdays and then on a Saturday as well.

"It's just probably doing more at a higher intensity. It's just been that step-up this pre-season which has been really good."

Fitness and conditioning hasn't been the only thing on Couch's radar. The fast bowler, who is also hopeful he can help Victorian Premier Cricket outfit Geelong to its first premiership, wants to be more reliable with the ball.

"I've just been working on a few bits and pieces to enhance my accuracy. I think that's where I've got to improve the most," he said.

"My consistency with my stock ball is going to be really important, especially if I want to play first-class cricket.

"I'm trying to just focus on my action, staying on the park and being as fit as I can."

While Couch is determined to spend as much time in Victorian colours as possible, Geelong's cause is still close to his heart.

Couch and fellow south-west export Tommy Jackson are shaping as more crucial cogs in the club's bid for a maiden premiership on the back of captain Eamonn Vines' departure to Tasmania.

"This year I'd like us to take another step up. Guys like myself, Tommy and Tom O'Connell, who are all in the state squad setup, we'd like to improve that extra five to 10 per cent," he said.

"We'll have that bit more responsibility with Eamonn off to Tassie."

Uncertainty still surrounds the start of both the Victorian Premier Cricket season and Victoria's domestic campaign due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The Sheffield Shield has begun for every other state barring New South Wales as the nation's two most populous states endure harsh restrictions in their capital cities. "Winning a flag with Geelong and playing first-class cricket, they're my two biggest goals," Couch said.

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