Opportunity knocks for young Warriors

WESTERN Australia's selectors today announced that three Western Warriors will make debuts in a Pura Cup match against Tasmania starting at the WACA Ground on Sunday.

Wicketkeeper Luke Ronchi (21), left-arm spinner Beau Casson (19) and batsman Adam Voges (23) will all play their first games.

It is the first time three WA players have debuted in the same match since batsman Mark Lavender and pacemen Martin McCague and Mark Wasley against Victoria in Melbourne in February 1991.

The absence of seven senior players on international commitments has opened way for Warriors newcomers.

Batsmen Scott Meuleman (22) and Geoff Cullen (25) have also been recalled to the Warriors side.

Warriors Chairman of Selectors Mr Wayne Hill says the elevation of new players is a boost for WA cricket.

"Our aim is to produce cricketers to go to the highest level and we are pleased to have seven players representing Australia," said Mr Hill.

"This is an opportunity to test the strength of our talent depth.

"The players we have selected to play against Tasmania have all been in good form with their respective club sides and on the current Second XI tour of the eastern states.

"This is a further opportunity for young players to prove that they are capable of playing at a higher level than they have previously experienced."

The Warriors team will be led by veteran pace bowler Jo Angel, who will play his first game as WA captain.

Angel requires seven wickets to reach 400 at Pura Cup/Sheffield level. He is currently second on the all-time domestic competition wicket-takers list behind spin bowling great Clarrie Grimmett (513).

The Warriors team has only four players who have played more than 20 Pura Cup/ Sheffield Shield games.

Jo Angel ... 96 matches.
Paul Wilson 36
Matthew Nicholson 31
Murray Goodwin 28
Marcus North 19
Chris Rogers 12
Scott Meuleman 10
Michael Clark 7
Geoff Cullen 1