Five Flames players have been included in the 16-player squad which again will be coached by Kyabram sporting legend Lawrie Casey.
Tongala will be represented by two players — all-rounder Darin Ohslen and English keeper-batsman Callum Clayton.
The squad for country week is: Paul Newman, Danny Kent, Marx De Villiers, Dale Shaw, Brodie Unwin (Kyabram Fire Brigade), Alistair McCann, Jordan McGregor, Darcy Elliott, Anthony McMahon (Moama), Darin Ohlsen, Callum Clayton (Tongala), Luke Deeprose, Greg Pearse, Josh Wood (BLU), Vid Vadav (Rochester), Matt Hinks (Echuca).
Coach Casey believes it is a very balanced squad, deep in both batting and bowling options.
‘‘I think we will also be a very good fielding side which can make the difference between winning and losing down there,’’ Casey said.
Goulburn Murray has been elevated to division two for the series because of withdrawals and Casey views this as an extra challenge
‘‘In recent years we had been frustratingly close to winning the title in division three to try to get into division two and now we have that chance,’’ he said.
‘‘There are some tough games, starting with Bendigo on the first day, so we will need to be at our best.’’
The GMC squad will be staging a team bonding session tonight at the Tongala Bowls Club.
■ GMC’s draw for Melbourne Country Week which starts on Monday is:
Monday: GMC v Bendigo (at Greenvale)
Tuesday: GMC v Murray Valley (at Preston)
Wednesday: GMC v Wangaratta (at Williamston)
Thursday: Semi-final (at Hoppers Crossing)
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