BEGA Valley cricketer Mac Wright was named as 12th man in the Prime Minister’s XI squad on Monday.
Mac, 16, played junior cricket with both the Pambula Bluedogs and Merimbula Knights. As well as staring on the cricket pitch, Wright also runs rings around his opponents during winter whilst playing for the Pambula Panther's AFC in the Sapphire Coast AFL. Wright who finished 5th in the 2014 under 16 best and fairest shows all year round his true athletic ability.
The prolific cricketer, who now plays with Canberra’s Weston Creek is no stranger to top level cricket, repeatedly representing at the national level.
However, the selection is a huge honour and will be a genuine taste of international cricket for the youngster.
“I’m still sort of shocked [by the selection],” Mac said.
“It’s a bit hard to take in at the moment, but I am thrilled to get the opportunity.”
Mac was already chosen to bowl in the nets to the England roster.
“The national selectors thought it would be nice to give me the opportunity,” he said.
Mac is thrilled by the idea of being on the sidelines to see the game with a big crowd in attendance.
“It gives me great pleasure to announce the squad to play England in this month’s Prime Minister’s XI match,” Prime Minister Tony Abbott said on Monday.
“This team is an exciting mix of emerging talent and big name players.
“This fixture promises to be an exciting day in what’s shaping as a memorable summer of cricket in Australia.”
Cricket ACT chairman Ian McNamee was excited for cricketers to strut their stuff.
“The Prime Minister’s XI game provides the perfect opportunity for the most talented ACT players to again showcase their skills against international opposition,” Mr McNamee said.
The squad will be captained by Mike Hussey and players wil have the opportunity for dinner with Mr Abbott and the English team ahead of the match.
The game will be played at Canberra’s Manuka Oval on January 14.
Tickets for the match are still available via Ticketek.
The match will be live streamed on www.cricket.com.au.
Jacob McMaster
Last Modified on 02/02/2015 16:05