Abbatangelo is ready to shine

The talented 18-year-old is the sole indigenous player in the Victorian squad, continuing to add to his long list of achievements, with selection in the 13-strong outfit alongside the likes of James Muirhead and Meyrick Buchanan.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge. It should be good,” Abbatangelo said.

Along with his under-19 selection, Abbatangelo was also recently named as the Victorian Imparja Cup Team captain. 

In just his second year on the team, the right-handed batsman was promoted to captain after holding the vice-captaincy in his first season.

“It’s pretty unbelievable. When I got told (I got the captaincy) I didn’t know what to say. It’s just an honour,” he said.

Having been influenced by his older brothers, Abbatangelo started his cricketing career at the age of seven at Yarrambat Cricket Club.

He has since piled on the runs and has successfully transitioned into Premier Cricket at Northcote, where he has been promoted to the first XI.

Aside from cricket, Ben also juggles his education as he participates in the Cricket Victoria and SEDA sports development program – an initiative that enables year 10, 11 and 12 students the opportunity to complete their education within the sport and recreation industry.

While balancing his education with his sporting life, the young cricketer continues to give endless hours in an effort to pursue a potential international cricket career.

 “I love it. It’s not a sacrifice if you enjoy it.”

Story kindly provided to Cricket Victoria by Sarah Carpinteri.

Victorian under-19 squad
Josh McDonald – Richmond
Hamish Winter-Irving – Footscray Edgewater
Matthew Begbie -Melbourne
Corey Ogle – Geelong
Ashton Agar – Richmond
Matthew Bright – Fitzroy Doncaster
Sebastian Gotch – Melbourne
James Wilcock – Dandenong
Meyrick Buchanan – Geelong
Dominic McGlinchey – Geelong
Jack Paynter – Melbourne
James Muirhead -St Kilda
Ben Abbatangelo – Northcote

Schedule
January 11 V NT – One-day
January 12 V NSW – One-day
January 13 V SA – One-day
January 15-16 V QLD – Two-day
January 18-19 V WA – Two-day
January 20 V TAS – Twenty20
January 20 V ACT – Twenty20