Victoria has named its 12-player squad for its Round 4 Sheffield Shield clash against Western Australia, as Victoria prepares for their first match at the MCG this summer.
With sunny conditions forecast, Victoria will be looking to make the most of home conditions against its traditional rival, with a victory crucial to keeping pace with the competition's top two sides.
Victoria's batting line-up will enter the contest with confidence following encouraging performances against Queensland at the Gabba.
Reigning Bill Lawry Medallist Sam Harper made an immediate impact in his return to the side, combining with Marcus Harris for a 102-run opening stand, the highest opening partnership in the Sheffield Shield competition last week.
Harper, Harris and Campbell Kellaway all registered half-centuries against Queensland and will be looking to build on their strong starts to the season.
Blake MacDonald has been rewarded with selection following his outstanding form for Victoria's Second XI in Mildura, while David Moody and Harry Hoekstra have also been included in the squad.
Oliver Peake is unavailable due to international ODI commitments, while Matt Hennig will be managed and Fergus O'Neill misses through a minor neck strain.
Victoria's Head of Male Cricket, Wade Seccombe, said the return to the MCG presented an important opportunity for the side to build momentum.
"It's exciting to return to the MCG for the first time this summer, particularly against a quality opponent like Western Australia," Seccombe said.
"We're really pleased to reward Blake for his outstanding performances in the Second XI. He's worked hard for his opportunity and thoroughly deserves his inclusion.
"We know how important this match is in the context of our season. We need to start converting promising performances into victories to keep pace with the leading sides.
"There's always a strong rivalry between Victoria and Western Australia, and we're looking forward to the challenge on our home ground."
Victorian Squad vs Western Australia
Will Sutherland - Prahran CC (c)
Austin Anlezark - Richmond CC
Liam Blackford - Geelong CC
Peter Handscomb - St Kilda CC
Sam Harper - Melbourne CC
Marcus Harris - St Kilda CC
Harry Hoekstra - Casey South Melbourne CC
Campbell Kellaway - Melbourne CC
Blake MacDonald - St Kilda CC
David Moody - Melbourne CC
Todd Murphy - St Kilda CC
Mitch Perry - Richmond CC
Ins: Blake MacDonald, Harry Hoekstra, David Moody
Outs: Oliver Peake (ODI commitments), Matt Hennig (managed), Fergus O'Neill (injured)
Victoria faces Western Australia in Round 4 of the Sheffield Shield at the MCG. The match can be streamed live on Kayo Sports and cricket.com.au. Play begins at 10:30 AEDT.
