LINTON JACOBS  (C)

Carnivals: 6

Runs: 171 Avr: 10.1 HS: 38*

Wkts: 2 Avr: 8.5 Best: 2-17

First year as skipper for the keeper-batsman, who has led Strathdale to the past three flags. Represented Victoria Country last month and will bat anywhere from No.3 to 7.

ADAM BURNS

Carnivals: 11

Runs: 352 Avr: 18.5  HS: 49*

Wkts: 86 Avr: 17.0 Best: 7-39

One of Bendigo’s great Country Week servants lining up for his 12th carnival. Has been Bendigo’s leading wicket-taker at five carnivals, including 2010 when he captained the grand final win.

ISAAC CONWAY

Carnivals: 0

Still playing under-17s for Sandhurst, with his selection reaffirming his status as a player of the future. Keeper-batsman who has played some Premier Cricket with Essendon this season.

GARETH DAVIES

Carnivals: 0

The Welsh import has had a consistent season for White Hills, with his all-round contribution helping the Demons climb the ladder. Can whack a ball and will bowl off-spin.

BEN DeARAUGO

Carnivals: 8

Runs: 173 Avr: 17.3 HS: 46

Wkts: 48 Avr: 19.9 Best: 5-14

The star all-rounder is the sole player left from the drought-breaking 2007 Country Week premiership win. Loves the big occasion, whether it’s opening the bowling or with the bat.

BRENT HAMBLIN

Carnivals: 3

Runs: 24 Avr: 24.0 HS: 19*.

Wkts: 14 Avr: 16.4 Best: 3-39

Part of what is a strong Bendigo bowling unit. Could open the bowling alongside his Kangaroo Flat team-mate Adam Burns, while he’s also a handy batsman to have coming in as low as No. 10 or 11.

MICHAEL HANSON

Carnivals: 0

The hard-hitting Huntly-North Epsom opening batsman has been one of the recruits of the season following a year off. Was particularly damaging during the Twenty20 tournament.

RHYS IRWIN

Carnivals: 0

First trip to Melbourne Country Week for the 19-year-old. Has been a workhorse with the ball for White Hills this season, while he has also played some handy lower-order innings with the bat.

SAM JOHNSTON

Carnivals: 2

Runs: 228 Avr: 38.0 HS: 49*

Wkts: 1 Avr: 44.0 Best: 1-23

All-rounder who rarely plays a game for Huntly-North Epsom without having some impact with either bat or ball. Has only been dismissed for less than 15 once in seven Country Week innings.

TRAVIS KING

Carnivals: 0

One of the elite batsmen of the BDCA, who is again having a stellar season opening for Strathdale. Represented Victoria Country last month and a key to Bendigo’s chances next week.

AARON MONRO

Carnivals: 2

Runs: 133 Avr: 19.0 HS: 64*

Wkts: 4 Avr: 20.0 Best: 2-27

All-rounder who crossed to Eaglehawk this season from White Hills. Gives the side some flexibility with not only his bowling, but also his ability to bat anywhere in the order.

ADRIAN PAPPIN

Carnivals: 0 (for Bendigo)

One of the most explosive batsmen in the BDCA who looms as an X-factor with his capacity to belt the ball all over the park. Will float in the order from day to day depending on the situation.

CAMERON TAYLOR

Carnivals: 2

Runs: 287 Avr: 41.0 HS: 106

Wkts: 13 Avr: 21.9 Best: 3-15

The all-rounder is vice-captain of the team and another of the members who represented Victoria Country last month. Has a big week ahead batting at No.4 and bowling his leg-spin.

ANTHONY WEST

Carnivals: 1

Runs: 97 Avr: 24.3  HS: 77

Wkts: - Avr: - Best: -

Has been the clear standout with the bat for Eaglehawk this season with his 350 runs and has the big job of batting at No.3 next week. One of the best fielders in the competition.

MAX TAYLOR

Coach of Bendigo’s Melbourne Country Week squad for the third year.

THE DRAW:

Monday: v Murray Valley at Greenvale.

Tuesday: v Sale-Maffra at Carlton.

Wednesday: v Leongatha at Prahran.

Thursday: v Mornington at Endeavour Hills.