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Lee to lead PM's XI

Former Test paceman Brett Lee was today announced as captain of the Prime Minister’s XI side to take on England at Manuka Oval in Canberra on January 14.

Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Cricket ACT Chairman Ian McNamee officially launched the match, with Lee delighted to be a part of the team he first played for as a 22-year-old, before going on to enjoy a 76-Test career.

“It’s a great honour for me to be selected as captain of the Prime Minister’s XI to take on England,” said Lee.

“I know first-hand how this important fixture on the Australian cricketing calendar can help propel the careers of young aspiring cricketers.

“I first played in the Prime Minister’s XI against India in 1999. I was fortunate enough to take four wickets in that match, and less than three weeks later found myself on the biggest stage of all – playing at the MCG on Boxing Day in my first Test match for Australia.

“More than 14 years on, I’m proud to lead what I’m sure will be an emerging team of stars here next month at the magnificent Manuka Oval.”

The rest of the team will also be selected by Cricket Australia’s National Selection Panel (NSP) with input from Mr Abbott, and will be announced in the coming weeks.

Cricket Australia Chief Executive Officer James Sutherland said he was looking forward to the fixture, which will again be played as a day-night match.

“The Prime Minister’s XI match is a great fixture full of tradition, and we encourage cricket fans from the ACT and surrounds to come along and support it,” Sutherland said.

McNamee is confident Canberra cricket fans will support the match.

“I urge all ACT and regional cricket fans to secure their tickets now,” he said. “Last year we had about 10,000 people in attendance and this time we are confident it will be a sell-out, so cricket fans need to get in quick to avoid disappointment.”

The fixture falls between the first and second matches of the Carlton Mid One Day International Series against Australia, and is CIC Australia’s 11th year as the major sponsor of the match.

Corporate hospitality packages are available through Earlybird Marketing and Events, and general tickets for the match are available via Ticketek.

Video courtesy of WIN Canberra