With each ball that has spun — left or right — or straightened, Moama cricketer Todd Murphy has moved closer to achieving his dreams.
Hold tight - we’re checking permissions before loading more content
Playing at an under-19 World Cup for Australia: tick.
Playing several national championships for Victoria Country: tick.
Making his Victorian Premier Cricket first XI debut: tick.
But last week, another of Murphy's dreams came true after he was named in Cricket Victoria's male squad for next season.
“It's obviously nice to get to where I've been aiming to for the past four years,” Murphy said.
“But it's only the beginning of my journey and I know that I still have a lot of hard work ahead of me.
“I've been working hard on my game over the past few years, so it is nice to have been recognised by the selection committee.
“I'm looking forward to working hard on my game and getting the best out of myself as a player.”
The teenager is one of four first-time rookies in the squad including Brody Couch, Tom Jackson and Cameron McClure.
But his selection will have Murphy potentially play alongside Australian one-day captain Aaron Finch, Glenn Maxwell and James Pattinson.
“I'm fortunate enough to get the opportunity to work with some of the best players in the world,” he said.
“They have a lot of experience and I'll be soaking up every minute that I'm with them, whether it's in the nets or in team meetings.”
Murphy is expected to work closely alongside Jon Holland (who has played four Test matches for Australia) and fellow youngster Wil Parker as the specialist spinners in the squad.
“It's good to have someone of Jon's experience in the squad,” he said.
“We've been back at training for three weeks now, but there haven't been any skill-based sessions yet.
“I'll be sure to pick his brain when that does start. All of the boys are excited to be back into training with everything that is happening in the world.
“We're all just looking forward to the opportunity to play some cricket.”
Cricket Australia released its domestic fixture for the upcoming season last month, but the COVID-19 pandemic could still force a reshuffle.
But whatever happens, Murphy has a clear goal in mind.
“I would love to play in the Sheffield Shield team,” he said.
“But Victoria has been one of the premier teams for the past several seasons, so it could be a difficult task.
“I'm not going to put any pressure on myself, I'll just take everything as it comes.
“Having consistent form will give me the best opportunity of playing in the first XI.”
11°C