Victorian rookies learn from Ricky Ponting masterclass

The Victorian members of inaugural Australian Cricket Pathway Rookie squad, which was announced in July, were given the opportunity of a lifetime to learn from one of the game’s greats.

Ponting participated in the net session and faced all the emerging bowlers whilst pairing up with the assembled batters passing tips along the way.

Australian Cricket Pathway Rookie coach Greg Shipperd said “the experience has to be the high point of the program thus far, having one of the world’s most decorated cricketers sharing his immense knowledge with the boys.”

“During our question and answer session Ricky talked expansively about the game and in particular, the challenges presented by the game in the formative years.

“He tackled issues accompanying the physical, mental, technical and tactical elements of the game.

“He was able to illustrate all of his points with reference to the stand-out teammates who he had observed during his career.

“The information shared was pure gold and I’m confident each of the players will remember and implement as best they can his key messages,” Shipperd said.

The new Australian Cricket Pathway Rookie squad program is designed to give this nationally selected talented group of 14-18 year olds some more advanced experiences with regard to their cricketing development.

Victoria has 15 members in the squad; Shubham Bhargave, Xavier Crone, Damon Egan, Fraser Ellis, Zak Evans, Mackenzie Harvey, Dulnath Hendawitharana, Wilson McGillvray, Zachary Mevissen, Nathan Murphy, Blake Parsons, Tom Rogers, Will Sutherland, Blake Thomson and Matthew Underwood.