In town for Cricket Victoria’s “Diamonds in the Bush”, in which the region’s best young cricketers take part in a two-day high performance coaching clinic, Stevens said many of the rising stars taking part in the program were also talented footballers.

“The first thing we look for is strong hand-eye coordination,” Stevens said.

“The ones that can hit, throw, catch and move well are the ones we want to work with, and often they’ll have a strong footy background as well.”

While the boys program was well represented, this year’s visit marked the first time the girls program has been able been run in a number of years.

High performance coach Megan Pauwels was on hand to put the region’s brightest talents through their paces, joined by Bushrangers paceman Chris Tremain, incoming wicketkeeper Aaron Ayre and fast bowling coach Mick Lewis.

Stevens said the example set by the Australian women’s team, alongside successful exploits from various other women’s teams and players, was driving more and more girls to get involved in the game at a younger age.

“The women’s game and women’s sport has had some great exposure in recent times, and the more girls we get involved with programs like this, the better,” he said.

“The Australian women’s team is a great example of players playing the game for the right reasons.

“I know in the past we’ve unearthed Cam White and Mick Lewis from regional areas, so it’d be exciting to spot someone with a bit of potential through a program like this.”