Bellevue Hill’s Alex Van Vugt makes NSW Primary School cricket team

WITH idols such as Australian cricketers opening batsman David Warner and pace bowler Ryan Harris as his inspiration, it is no surprise that Alex Van Vugt has relished his role of all-rounder.

Cranbrook Junior School student Alex Van Vugt, has been selected by the NSW selectors to play for the NSW Cricket Squad. Picture: John Appleyard

WITH idols such as Australian cricketers opening batsman David Warner and pace bowler Ryan Harris as his inspiration, it is no surprise that Alex Van Vugt has relished his role of all-rounder.

The 11-year-old Cranbrook student from Bellevue Hill was last week selected in the NSW Primary School side, which will contest the national championships in Darwin next month.

And he already has his sights set on making a statement.

“Winning the tournament would definitely be a highlight and playing well as an individual,” are his lofty goals.

“Maybe two wickets a match and more than 30 runs a game.”

The Easts Dolphins cricketer started playing at the age of five and hopes to one day play for Australia.

He went through a rigorous selection process starting with his school side, then the Catholic Institute of Sydney Tournament followed by a three-day trial for the state side at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Cranbrook Junior School student Alex Van Vugt, has been selected by the NSW selectors. Picture: John Appleyard

Cranbrook Junior School student Alex Van Vugt, has been selected by the NSW selectors to. Picture: John Appleyard

Alex said just setting foot on the iconic SCG turf was enough to inspire him to focus more on cricket and less on his other sports, athletics and football (soccer).

“The SCG was really fun, but it was nerve wracking … that was a really big moment for me.”

His selection afterwards confirmed his aspirations.

“I was amazed, completely amazed. Mum started crying, Dad never cries but he was happy,” Alex said.

“It is a turning point in my life. It means I just want to play cricket all my life now.”

Alex’s teachers nominated him for the Wentworth Courier’s Junior Sports Star competition, sponsored by Rebel.

“He thoroughly deserves this selection as he has massive potential and a ­fantastic attitude,” said the school’s head of sport Jim Scott.

“I am sure that this is the start of a very ­successful cricketing journey.”

Alex said he was looking forward to getting practice in the 50-over format. His age group plays 36 overs and he said he could learn a lot from more game time.

The five-day tournament will see the NSW side play against all states but Western Australia.

To nominate a Junior Sports Star click here.