Second call up for Albany tyro

Albany speedster Julian Crudeli will represent the WA Country XI for the second time in his young career.

Crudeli is the sole Great Southern player named in the 13-man squad which travels to Canberra for the Australian Country Cricket Championships in January.

His selection is another feather in his cap after a standout performance in 2011 for the Country XI in Bunbury had him named in the All Star Country XI .

Crudelli took 10 wickets and made 59 runs to help his side secure their first title in eight years

After spending this winter playing cricket for the Woolpit Cricket Club in England, the 22-year-old said he was excited about the opportunity to again play for the WA Country XI.

“It was good news,” he said. “I am looking forward to heading over to Canberra.

“I am hoping to replicate that success we had when I last played.”

Crudeli said it was crucial he and the team’s all-rounders made some runs during the tournament.

“We are probably one batsman short,” he said.

“But we have a few all-rounders in the team so as long as us all-rounders can make a few runs we should be right.”

In his three local A-grade matches for Railways this season, Crudeli has made 89, 39, a duck and taken two wickets. He said he hoped to build on his form before the championships.

“I feel comfortable with my batting but I would probably like a few more wickets,” Crudeli said.

“I will look to build on my form for the rest of the season.”

Former Royals captain Tim Hutchison, now in Perth, also made the cut.

Local bowler Hayden Burling was contacted after a late withdrawal but is not available to play.