Locals feature among state’s brightest prospects

THREE of the region’s brightest cricketing talent are in contention to represent the state after being named in Cricket Victoria’s Under-19 Male Emerging Performance squad.

Former Barrabool duo Tom Scott and Finn McCombe, along with Leopold’s Callum Stow will all be vying for a spot in the Victoria Country team.

The trio played for Country Barwon in last seasons Under 18 Male Youth Premier League.

Scott was the team’s second-highest run-scorer during the competition, while Stow and McCombe were both the team’s equal third-highest wicket-takers.

Stow was part of the Victoria Country team that made grand final in the Under 19 National Championships last season and said he enjoyed being part of the competition.

“It’s a great experience to go away to the national carnival. Hopefully, I can put my best foot forward in this year’s final and see what happens.”

Scott is the only bottom year player of the three, meaning this is his first year being eligible for the Under 19 side.

Last season he was a key part of the Victoria Country team that Under 17 National Championships.

He said he was pleased to be in the mix once more.

“It’s always a great experience and you feel pretty lucky to be in the selected squads, which a lot of people would love to be part of.”

Scott said he was also happy to be in the squad with long-time teammate McCombe.

“We’ve played together for about 10 years now, so it’s good to be in the squad with him.”

The pair both played much of their junior cricket for Barrabool before switching to Geelong a couple of seasons ago.

McCombe said he was eager to make a mark after an untimely injury hampered his previous season.

“I had a jaw surgery which set me back a couple of months but it’s great to have another chance to make the team.”

Cricket Australia is planning to hold the National Championships in Adelaide during April 2021.