Ipswich contingent in SEQ shield campaign
SOUTH East Queensland, featuring eight Ipswich players, has only one thing in mind this weekend.
That is bringing back the McPherson Shield from the South Queensland under-17 tournament this weekend.
SEQ includes Alex Dell, Matt Guest, Corey Lucas (Central Districts), Jack Wood (Laidley), Alex Drager, Dominic Greensill (Northsiders), Mitchell Raine (Marburg) and Mikey Wilson (Ipswich Grammar School).
Coach Scott Barrett has coached SEQ to two of the past three titles and rates this team a big chance of continuing the run of success.
"Not bad," he said of SEQ's chances. "They're all good prospects."
The draw has not been finalised but SEQ will play two games against Darling Downs and Wide Bay opposition, with a South Queensland team to be named on Sunday.
Barrett rates Lucas and Wood two players he expects to go further.
Wrist spinner Wood has just returned from Dubai, where he was touring with the Australian under 16 team.
"Corey is another who could go all the way," Barrett said of the off-spinning all-rounder.
Paceman Alex Drager is another Barrett expects big things from. But all of them will first have to deal with the rise in standards and the prospect of backing up after a full day's play.
"It's another step up for them," Barrett said.
"Most are playing lower division men's cricket. It's a good opportunity to put their hands up.
"They need to be able to bat all day and back up next morning at 8.30am."
