Tasmanian captain George Bailey has earmarked paceman Aaron Summers and right-hander Ben McDermott as the youngsters that could drive his side’s improvement this season.
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The Tigers endured a forgettable 2017-18 JLT Cup campaign, winning just two of their six fixtures to finish second-bottom.
But the form of pace trio Jackson Bird, Tom Roger and Sam Rainbird ensured the Tigers finished the domestic season by making the Sheffield Shield final, highlighting the side’s progression under Adam Griffith.
Speaking to Cricket Australia, Bailey said McDermott – the step-son of national bowling coach and former Australian paceman Craig – was one who could add another element to the Tigers’ middle order.
“The knowledge of his game has matured over the last couple of years,” Bailey said.
“We’ve seen what a phenomenal striker of the ball he can be in T20 cricket … if he can replicate that form and build some really big innings he’s going to be a really exciting player.”
Western Australia-born Summers was a surprise selection in the 14-man squad named earlier this week, winning a call-up from the rookie list on the back of a promising pre-season.
Much has been made of the 22-year-old’s raw pace, which can hit speeds of up to 150km/h.
“If he gets a game he’s going to be really exciting,” Bailey said.
“With the ball in his hand, something always happens.
“We’ve got a bit of pace in our bowling attack, which is always nice to have and we’ve developed a team that's full of match winners.”
Tasmania will play its first cup match against Victoria at Queensland’s Riverway Stadium on Wednesday.