Budge to Captain WA U19s in National Cricket Championships

Western Australia has announced its 14-player squad for the upcoming Cricket Australia Under 19 National Male Cricket Championships. The tournament, set to take place in Adelaide from December 12th to 19th, will see the young Western Australian team compete against the best talent from across the nation. This year's squad is brimming with talent and experience, promising an exciting competition for fans and players alike.

The Captain's Journey: Simon Budge's Rise to Leadership

Leading the team is Melville's Simon Budge, who takes on the captaincy after a remarkable stint as captain in last summer's U17 National Championships. His exceptional leadership skills and batting prowess are key factors in his appointment. During the U17 championships, Budge's performances were nothing short of extraordinary, leading his team to the Grand Final. He amassed an impressive 341 runs at an average of 56.83, emerging as WA's top run-scorer. This included two stunning centuries, one against Queensland (110 runs) and another against South Australia (116 runs). His contributions were pivotal to Western Australia’s success. His talent earned him a spot in Australia’s U19 Tour to India in September, where he showcased his skills in both red-ball and 50-over matches.

A Strong Leadership Team

The coaching staff is comprised of experienced professionals who will guide the young cricketers throughout the tournament. Brian Shields, Western Australia Pathways Coach – Male Programs, will lead the coaching team, with Brendon Diamanti and Langley Angel serving as assistant coaches. Their collective experience and expertise will be invaluable in nurturing the talent within the squad. Shields expressed his confidence in the squad's abilities, highlighting their talent and balance. He stated, “We believe this is a talented and balanced squad that I’m looking forward to seeing compete and be challenged over the six matches in Adelaide. The National Championships are always a great opportunity for our players to showcase their skills and continue to gain experience playing against some exciting cricketers from all around Australia.”

Squad Composition: A Blend of Experience and Emerging Talent

The squad represents a diverse range of Western Australian Premier Cricket Clubs, including multiple players from South Perth, Claremont-Nedlands, Scarborough, and Rockingham-Mandurah. This showcases the depth of talent within the state's junior cricket scene. The team's batting lineup is particularly strong, with key players including skipper Simon Budge, Adam Solomons, and Zed Hollick. Sean Thompson, who impressed last summer, also returns to the squad. The bowling attack is equally formidable, featuring the pace of Albert Esterhuysen, Wyatt Wilson, Jordan Quiggin, Zeph Netherway, and Connor Southam, complemented by the spin options of Matt Carroll, Zed Hollick, and Will Malajczuk. The squad has been well-prepared, with all 14 players gaining valuable experience in 1st Grade Cricket this summer, playing alongside some of Western Australia's best players.

Exposure and Opportunities for Growth

The National Championships offer an invaluable platform for these young players to test their skills and gain invaluable experience against top-tier competition. It's a chance to showcase their talent to selectors and to further develop their cricketing abilities. This tournament is not just a competition; it's a crucial stepping stone in the development of these young cricketers’ careers. The exposure they receive during the matches will contribute significantly to their personal growth, enhancing their cricketing expertise and preparing them for future challenges in the competitive world of professional cricket.

Tournament Details and Viewing Options

The tournament will feature six 50-over matches played over a week. Western Australia will begin their campaign against Queensland at Karen Rolton Oval on Thursday, December 12th. Fans can follow the action live via the Cricket Australia YouTube channel, which offers live streaming of every match. Those who prefer to track scores and updates can do so through Play Cricket. It’s an exciting opportunity for cricket enthusiasts across the country to witness the next generation of Australian cricketing stars showcasing their skills.

A Glimpse into the Future

With a talented and experienced squad, the Western Australian team is poised to make a significant impact in the Under 19 National Male Cricket Championships. The tournament promises thrilling matches and a showcase of the exceptional young talent in Western Australian cricket. The young players’ dedication and the coaching staff’s guidance should lead to a successful campaign for the team. Their performance will be watched closely by selectors and fans alike. This competition will be a springboard for the future stars of Australian cricket.