Australian youth selectors look to 2008 World Cup

Australia's Under-19 selectors had an eye on the 2008 World Cup when they picked the squad for the five-match series against Pakistan Under-19 in Brisbane in April. Brian McFadyen, the coach, said only three of the players were at the top of the age-group and the outfit was already preparing for the global tournament in Malaysia.

"We're particularly excited with the inclusion of a number of younger players," McFadyen said. "James Pattinson, from Victoria, and James Faulkner, from Tasmania, are just 16 and emergency Kane Richardson is 15. Despite their youth these players have progressed to such a level that they warranted selection and this is a very positive sign for the future."

Squad Shaun Austin (Qld), Daniel Burns (NSW), Nathan Coulter-Nile (WA), Matthew Day (NSW), James Faulkner (Tas), Michael Hill (Vic), Phillip Hughes (NSW), Simon Keen (NSW), David Murphy (NSW), Dom O'Brien (Qld), James Pattinson (Vic), Kumar Sarna (Vic), James Smith (SA).

Schedule
Aus U19 v Pak U19, April 12, Allan Border Field
Aus U19 v Pak U19, April 13, Allan Border Field
Aus U19 v Pak U19, April 16, venue to be confirmed
Aus U19 v Pak U19, April 18, venue to be confirmed
Aus U19 v Pak U19, April 20, venue to be confirmed