McNeil was the shining light in a disappointing campaign by Victoria at the Australian Country Cricket Championships in Canberra over the past week, with his unbeaten century against Queensland Country impossible for the national selectors to ignore.

The classy all-rounder made more than 200 runs batting at No. 3 and was brilliant in the field.

McNeil, who returned to Alexandra Park this season after five years with University of NSW in Sydney, said his selection was an unexpected bonus.

“It’s pretty disappointing to come away with only one win,” he said.

“But I’m glad I managed to contribute to some extent with the bat.

“It was a good chance to see what the other states have to offer with regards to coaching and player skill level as well.

“I was very happy to see the Crows went well at the weekend with a couple of our young blokes Will McIntosh and Chris Bridle doing well for the club.”

Surprisingly, McNeil bowled only two overs during the championships, in yesterday’s final match against East Asia Pacific.

Western Australia won the championship with Victoria’s only win against South Australia.

McNeil will play for East Albury when the Crows chase a win against Lavington on Saturday.