Why Easts Dolphins’ champion wicketkeeper Peter Nevill should play for Australia, replacing Brad Haddin

HE’S too modest to admit it, but NSW and Eastern Suburbs wicket-keeper Peter Nevill is on the verge of earning a Baggy Green cap.

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HE’S TOO modest to admit it, but NSW and Eastern Suburbs wicket-keeper Peter Nevill is on the verge of earning a Baggy Green cap.

With 716 Sheffield Shield runs to his name at an average of 79.55 this season, Nevill has comfortably scored more runs than any other wicket-keeper in the 2014-15 competition.

His tally also included a career best unbeaten 235 against Tasmania — proof Nevill’s run-scoring ability can match his already renowned glovework.

Peter Nevill showing his batting prowess for NSW against Tasmania.

Peter Nevill’s glovework for Easts and NSW this season has been first class. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

The prolific season could not have been more timely for Nevill, with a Test series against West Indies and the 2015 Ashes in England approaching. He has given himself every opportunity to join Australian keeper Brad Haddin on those tours.

Nevill raises his bat after passing 150 runs against Tasmania.

But one of the secrets to Nevill’s success has been an ability to keep his feet on the ground.

“It’s been easy to keep it (Australian selection) out of my mind,” Nevill said.

“I learnt a long while ago that if you worry about things you can’t control it affects your performance.

“I’ve just kept focusing on the game in front of me and that’s served me well.”

Nevill adopted the Eastern Suburbs as his home in 2008 when he made the move from Victoria and now considers himself a proud local.

“The opportunity popped up to join Easts and it’s a great area and the club has a fantastic group of people — it’s always a pleasure spending Saturdays at Waverley Oval.”

But of course it’s higher honours that are now in sight for Nevill and despite his one-game-at-a-time approach — he knows he’s within reach of his childhood dream.

“I’d love to play at the highest level, but ultimately the selectors will choose Brad Haddin’s successor,” he said.

Nevill would love to replace Brad Haddin (pictured) but knows he has to keep his feet on the ground. Picture: Wayne Ludbey

“Brad deserves the opportunity to leave on his own terms. All I can do is to try to ensure I am at the top of my game when that happens.”

Nevill will be in action for the Blues this weekend in their vital Shield match against Western Australia, before returning to finals action with Eastern Suburbs to finish off the domestic season.