Commonwealth Bank Cricket Academy squad to tour New Zealand

The Commonwealth Bank Cricket Academy (CBCA) has announced a 14-man squad to tour New Zealand as part of the preparation for the ICC 2002 Under-19 World Cup that will be staged in New Zealand next January.

Commenting on the tour, which see the CBCA side play a total of six matches between 13 and 28 October, team coach Troy Cooley said;

"From a team perspective this tour provides an ideal opportunity to become accustomed to the New Zealand playing conditions, meaning that by the time the ICC Under-19 World Cup comes around, our players are familiar with their surroundings.

"On an individual front, the tour is a genuine chance for all members of the squad to press for World Cup selection. "

The squad will play two three-day matches against the New Zealand Cricket Academy followed by four one-day matches.

Following the CBCA tour, preparation for the ICC 2002 Under-19 World Cup will include a series of trial matches in Adelaide during November, followed by the ACB Under-19 Youth Championships scheduled for December in Newcastle.

The solid preparation for the World Cup is part of the ACB's firm commitment to Australia's on-going development of elite cricketers at the Under-19 level.

The Commonwealth Bank Cricket Academy squad to tour New Zealand is:

The CBCA tour squad was chosen by a selection panel consisting of ACB Director Trevor Robertson (Under-19 Chairman of Selectors), current senior Australian Chairman of Selectors Trevor Hohns, Assistant Coach of the Commonwealth Bank Cricket Academy Troy Cooley and former Australian wicket-keeper and ACB Under 19 Selector Brian Taber.