Victoria poised to unleash young paceman after strong form in Premier Cricket

Strong form in Premier Cricket has an Essendon young gun on the cusp of a state debut in Sunday’s one-dayer against Tasmania.

Cam McClure in action for Essendon. Picture: Hamish Blair

Victoria is set to reward a young paceman’s strong Premier Cricket form with a one-day debut against Tasmania on Sunday.

Essendon quick Cam McClure is in line for his first state cap with selectors said to be pleased with his recent form.

McClure was signed to a rookie contract last season having been part of Australia’s Under-19 World Cup squad in 2019.

The Bombers young gun has 14 wickets in eight outings at Premier Cricket level this season.

After a slow start to the campaign, interrupted by injury and COVID, McClure has been one of the form bowlers in the competition since Christmas.

Essendon bowler Cam McClure. Picture: Josie Hayden

The 20-year-old has taken 10 scalps in the five games since the new year at an average of 12.9.

He’s been a key figure in Essendon’s surge towards a surprise finals appearance, taking 4-13 in a critical win over Footscray and two against Frankston Peninsula, Fitzroy Doncaster and Greenvale Kangaroos.

He was held out of Essendon’s win over Richmond on Saturday.

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McClure has five wickets in three Victoria Second XI appearances.

He took 2-55 and 0-31 in his last outing against South Australia.

Victoria plays back-to-back matches against Tasmania at Blundstone Arena on March 6 before backing up against Western Australia at the Junction Oval on March 8.

The Vics, currently sitting fifth with one win in four games, can move level on points with Tasmania in fourth if it can claim victory.

Should McClure debut he would be the next Essendon player to step up to state level following James Seymour’s breakthrough appearance at Sheffield Shield and Marsh Cup level last season.