Scholars to be put through their paces

The Australian board's latest intake of scholarship holders will get to work on their tough training program at Brisbane on Monday, where the nation's best young cricketers will be put through their paces in preparation for the rigours of first-class cricket.

The 26 players were chosen by the state selectors, and chosen as a result of their performances in the Cricket Australia Cup, as well as the various grade cricket competitions.

George Bailey and Craig Simmons, who have played for the Under-19 side in the past, and Tim Paine, who captained the U-19 side which toured India and Bangladesh in February this year, are included in the programme.

"Many of our current Australian representatives have graduated from the residential scholarship program," said James Sutherland, the board's chief executive. "The Centre of Excellence forms part of the cricket pathway to help these talented players refine their skills and prepare for the next step in their career. For some that may culminate in representing their country at the highest level."

The program will run until late July and will not only include such rigours as gut-busting fitness sessions in the gym and the nets, but also help to develop personal development skills. This will include notes on public speaking, advice on nutrition and history lessons on Australia's proud cricketing past.

2004 Scholars Darren McNess, Adam Rynehart, Doug Bollinger, Brendan Drew, Jason Krejza, Ryan Broad, Ryan Le Loux, Steve Paulsen, Grant Sullivan, Cullen Bailey, Daniel Cullen, Jim Plant, Tom Plant, Ken Skewes, George Bailey, Travis Birt, Tim Paine, Aidden Blizzard, Matthew Harrison, Cameron Huckett, Brad Knowles, Peter Siddle, Ben Edmondson, Aaron Heal, Craig Simmons, Adam Voges.