It’s always a bit risky to get overly excited by new young players before they have had a chance to establish themselves, but it’s difficult not to be excited by Queensland’s Billy Stanlake. A former Australia U-19 representative, the 204 cm (6’7”) pace bowler debuted for Queensland in the Matador Cup in October, when he collected 7 wickets in 4 matches.

The 21-year old then made his first-class debut against South Australia last month, collecting 3 wickets in the first innings and 4 in the second. Of these 7 wickets, four were caught behind by ‘keeper Chris Hartley and two were bowled. With his great height and slinging action, Stanlake is apparently capable of generating plenty of heat, bounce and swing.

Stanlake has already experienced injury problems, missing the 2013-14 season due to stress fractures in his back, so it may be premature to predict big things for him. Still, he is one to watch.