Could the VIC’s cause an upset at the Australian Sides Championships?
As the prestigious Australian Sides Championships loom, defending champions New South Wales and Queensland will be challenged by stern opposition, Victoria, who have been knocking on the door of the powerhouse states for some years now.
Whilst the Victorian men have not held the Alley Shield since 2002 and the Victorian women last won the Marj Morris Trophy in 2004 there have been numerous close encounters that include second and third place finishes in the last two years.
This year over in the west the ‘big V’ will be strong contenders to bring the Marj Morris Trophy and Alley Shield back to Victoria with star studded line-up’s ready to do business.
The state verse state competition is set to heat up at Yokine District Bowling Club from April 9-12 with all the best bowlers from around the country representing their respective states in the fierce competition.
Seven Australian Jackaroos and Australian ‘A’ squad members will be representing Victoria including their big cards, Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Matthew Flapper, and Carla Odgers with 72 international games under her belt.
The Victorian women have selected a very youthful side that include Australian Jackaroos Chloe Stewart and Samantha Shannahan- who is playing her last series for Victoria before she relocates to New South Wales to play for Merrylands alongside New Zealand international Val Smith.
NTC Squad members Elise Cowan, Kylie Whitehead and Tayla Spence have been working closely with NTC Coach Mark Cowan to ensure they are at the peak of their games in Perth.
The Victorian men have all the fire power with Blundstone Melbourne Roys stars Matthew Flapper, Dylan Fisher and Aaron Wilson being installed with the selector’s faith to skip Victoria to victory.
NTC squad member and current holder of the Australian Open Singles title Nathan Wilson, along with Australian Jackaroo Barrie Lester add to the experienced Victorian line-up who is looking to get back on top.
Victoria will need to be on their game right from the word go when they face New South Wales in the opening round, and then face home town heroes Western Australia to complete day one.
Last month Victoria were in the firing line against a strong New South Wales outfit during their annual test series; however changes have been made and every state will have one eye on Victoria during the Australian Championships.
For more information on the upcoming Australian Sides Championships including the schedule of play and list of players competing for each state, click here.
