Emerging Philippe's sights set on Shield success

Promising Western Australia youngster Josh Philippe has played down comparisons to Steve Smith and says he is determined to thrive in the longer format this summer.

The 22-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman has made an immediate impact in his one-day career with WA, hitting 239 runs from his first seven games at an average of 42.42 and strike rate of 124.26.

Philippe enjoyed a red-hot start to the Marsh One-Day Cup season, thumping 61 from 43 balls, including 10 boundaries, at the top of the order in his team's win against Victoria before he was dismissed cheaply for 16 in today's clash with Tasmania.

Marcus Stoinis, who plundered a century against the Vics and has played 60 games for Australia in the white-ball formats, declared Philippe is “going to be a superstar” after his team's first-up victory.

Philippe was also in the top-20 run-scorers in the KFC Big Bash League last season, finishing the tournament with 304 runs at 30.4 for the Sydney Sixers.

He boasted an eye-popping strike rate of 158.33, which was the best of the competition’s leading batsmen.

But, should he be selected in a strong WA side, Philippe is eyeing more success in the four-day Marsh Sheffield Shield in coming weeks, with WA to start their campaign against Tasmania on October 10.

“I desperately want to be a good red-ball player and I’m definitely chasing that,” said Philippe, who has one century and four fifties at 28.13 in 12 first-class matches.

“I’ve got a lot to prove in red-ball cricket, so that was a focus for me over the winter as well. Just being really clear on my game plans and trying to keep that positive intent as well, but within reason.”

Philippe has been likened to Smith for his unusual style and resemblance for the world’s No.1 Test batsman.

But he dismissed suggestions he was mimicking the run machine more closely than ever as he looks to gain the attention of national selectors.

“I don’t think so,” Philippe said. “I think it just happens. I kind of like to go out there and bat and just do what feels good. That’s what he does as well.

“He’s sort of inspired me to find that in myself.

“I wouldn’t say it’s that similar, but I can see why people think it’s similar in areas too.”

If Philippe can develop Smith’s ability to soak up the best bowlers have to offer and his range of shots, he will doubtless have a bright future.

But his first priorities are a more consistent output and knowing when to attack and defend.

“Just balancing my stance. I think what gets me in trouble is when I fall over my feet and get my front leg in the way of the ball,” Philippe said when asked what he had been working on over the off-season.

“I’m just really focused on staying as balanced as I can and also just being relaxed and controlling my emotions in the middle.”