Resident cricket expert Wil Parker has named his First XI (and 12th man) out of his current teammates in honour of today’s Boxing Day Test, with a host of big-name Pies earning their baggy black and white.
Parker, who played four Sheffield Shield games for Victoria and nine BBL games for the Hobart Hurricanes before arriving at Collingwood, had a strong contingent of former cricketers to select from in his theoretical side.
Alongside himself, players such as Harry DeMattia, Steele Sidebottom and Jeremy Howe were also touted as talented players in their junior days before heading down the football pathway.
There are also some potentially left-field selections, including a late change in the wicket-keeper slot with Lachie Schultz replacing Lachie Sullivan on the basis of 'form', but we’re prepared to back Parker’s judgement.
See his team and a comment from Parker on each player’s selection, below:
1. Harry DeMattia
“He’s an aggressive opener, he’ll to get us off to a flyer."
2. Steele Sidebottom
“A bit of experience at the top to keep Hazbolt (DeMattia) in check."
3. Dan Houston
“A good record, plenty of class in at number three. A good spin option too."
4. Jeremy Howe
“Plenty of experience and the best bat to come in at second drop."
5. Harry Perryman
“A busy player, will run hard between wickets and rotate strike in the middle order."
6. Wil Parker (c)
“Experienced all-rounder.”
7. Lachie Schultz (wk)
“Elite with the gloves. Will dig in when it’s tough but can also clear the rope.”
8. Ed Allan
“Pat Cummins reincarnated."
9. Oscar Steene
“Can hit a handkerchief all day."
10. Reef McInnes
“Erratic, but express pace. Best sledger in the side."
11. Darcy Cameron
“Crafty and comes from a good height.”
12th man. Billy Frampton
“Makes a good brew and good chat on the sideline.”
