Victoria Premier League: 15-year-old Lucas Brasher to make Carlton debut
Carlton is set to unveil one of its youngest players in club history with a 15-year-old leg spinner set to make his First XI debut against Dandenong.
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The future is now for Carlton.
The reigning Victorian Premier Cricket premiers are set to unleash teenage spinning sensation Lucas Brasher, 15, for his First XI debut against Dandenong on Saturday.
Brasher has made a strong impression on captain-coach Evan Gulbis this season after playing in Carlton’s first two Super Slam games finishing with figures of 2-19 and 3-17.
He’s also taken five wickets to start the season in the Second XI.
Brasher also plays in Warranwood’s under-16 side on Friday nights.
“This is an exciting opportunity for Lucas and a big moment for our club,” Gulbis said.
“He’s done really well in the T20s so far and with a few guys unavailable this week, we thought it was a great chance to give him a shot in the First XI.
“He spins the ball really well, I’m expecting it to be a great eye opener for him. Even if he goes back to the Second XI or wherever he ends up, he’ll know what it takes to reach the top level.
“It’s pretty amazing to think someone who hasn’t played in our Dowling Shield side yet is going to be playing in the First XI.
“Brash has earned this opportunity, you don’t just get gifted games at Carlton. Giving these younger guys an opportunity is really important for us.
“We’ve had a pretty seasoned side over the last four or five years and it’s brought us great success but at the same time I’m big on thinking about the future at the same time.”
Brasher’s inclusion is one of three changes Carlton has made ahead of their trip to Shepley Oval.
Andy Poppa, who made his First XI debut earlier in the season, will open the batting while Dom Sullivan has also been included and could play a role with bat and ball.
Cam Stevenson, Tom Smyth and Mackenzie Harvey are all set to make way.
“Andy and Dom have been in great form all season,” Gulbis said.
“Andy has been one of our leading run scorers for the past couple of years and Dom is the leading wicket taker.”
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