It is with great pride that the MCC learns today that our First XI allrounder Andrew McDonald has been selected in the Australian squad for the Test match against South Africa starting in Sydney on Saturday.
Should McDonald be selected in the starting XI in Sydney, he will join an illustrious list of MCC Australian Test players.
The 27-year-old has been a regular in the Victorian Bushrangers’ team since his debut seven years ago and in recent times has become a key contributor in all forms of the game.
A former Australia Under-19 player, he became only the fifth player in Sheffield Shield/Pura Cup history to make 750 runs and take 25 wickets in a season in 2006/07.
Not surprisingly, he was Victoria's Pura Cup Player of the Year that year and was picked in the Australia A squad to tour Pakistan but had to pull out due to a shoulder injury.
Cricket Victoria chairman Geoff Tamblyn said, “We’re delighted for Andrew and congratulate him on achieving this selection. He’s developed into a wonderful all-round cricketer who has taken his game to a new level in the past couple of seasons. He’s played a huge role in Victoria’s recent success and deserves the chance to wear the Australian colours.”
Bushrangers coach Greg Shipperd also lauded McDonald’s inclusion in the national squad.
“’Ronnie’ has been in terrific form again this season and we’re excited for him and pleased to have another Victorian in the Aussie squad,” he said.
“He’s got a solid technique, plenty of variation with his bowling and he fields really well. Throw those attributes in with his temperament and I reckon you’ve got a player who’ll do a great job if given the opportunity.”