Couch, who started at Nirranda, was included in a 12-man squad as a replacement for bowler Scott Boland, who was elevated to the Australia A squad.

Victoria coach Chris Rogers told The Standard Couch deserved an opportunity.

"It's another great story, coming from Warrnambool," Rogers said.

"He's a pretty quiet guy and keeps to himself a lot. I think I was calling him Crouchy for the first half of last season so the boys ribbed me a little bit about that.

"He's one of those unassuming characters who just seems to get the job done. The pre-season matches we played among ourselves, he was one who really stood out. He was able to cope under pressure and really be consistent with his gameplan."

Rogers said Couch would give Victoria versatility against a talent-packed New South Wales.

"He gives us a little bit of variety," Rogers said.

"We're losing Scott Boland, someone who can probably attacks the stumps quite a bit. Couchy is a little bit shorter and he kind of rushes the batsman for pace so he's a good fit for that (Boland) role.

"I'm really excited about what he's going to offer. He's a mature young man and I think he's going to have a big future."

It caps an eventual 2021 for the quick, who travelled with the Warrnambool squad to Melbourne Country Week in 2017, after he made his Marsh One-Day Cup debut in March.

Rogers said in addition to Boland, Nic Maddinson and Marcus Harris were not available for selection due to Australian call-ups.

Jon Holland, who is recovering from concussion, was fit to play against New South Wales but opted to miss to be with his heavily-pregnant wife.

Cricket Victoria Chair of Selectors Andrew Lynch congratulated the trio on Australian selection.

"We're pleased for Scott, Nic and Marcus, they've been consistent performers for Victoria for years now and deserve the opportunity at the next level," Lynch said.

"We're fortunate to have the depth in the squad to welcome players like Travis Dean and Jono Merlo back, while both Xavier Crone and Brody Couch have been developing in our system for a while, we look forward to seeing what they can do should the opportunity arise."

Squad:

Peter Handscomb (Captain)

Brody Couch

Xavier Crone

Travis Dean

Sam Harper

Jonathan Merlo

Wil Parker

James Pattinson

Mitch Perry

James Seymour

Matt Short

Will Sutherland

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