Will Sutherland to captain Victoria in Shield return

Sutherland steps in for Peter Handscomb, who is part of Australia’s Test squad touring India along with Scott Boland and Todd Murphy.

The 23-year-old has previous captaincy experience leading Australia’s U19 side, as well as Victoria Metro and the Cricket Australia XI through pathways cricket. Sutherland is also the current captain of Prahran in Victorian Premier Cricket.

“We wish Pete, Scott and Todd well in India, while we’ll miss them it does present opportunities for others,” Cricket Victoria’s Head of Male Cricket, David Hussey said.

“Will Sutherland is an emerging leader in the Victorian squad and we’re thrilled to give him the opportunity to captain his state while Pete is away. He’ll be well supported by some senior players including Marcus Harris, who will captain the Victorian Marsh One-Day Cup side.”

James Seymour has been included in the 13-players squad after scoring 569 runs at an average of 71.13 for Essendon in Victorian Premier Cricket so far this season.

Nic Maddinson successfully underwent surgery last month after rupturing his ACL during the BBL and is progressing well in his rehabilitation.

Squad:
Will Sutherland (c) (Prahran)
Ashley Chandrasinghe (Casey-South Melbourne)
Xavier Crone (Carlton)
Travis Dean (Footscray)
Sam Harper (Melbourne)
Marcus Harris (St Kilda)
Jon Holland (Frankston Peninsula)
Campbell Kellaway (Melbourne)
Cam McClure (Essendon)
Fergus O’Neill (Melbourne)
Mitch Perry (Richmond)
James Seymour (Essendon)
Matt Short (Northcote)

Marsh Sheffield Shield
Victoria vs Queensland
Feb 9-12, 10.30am AEDT
MCG
Coverage: Kayo Sports & cricket.com.au