“This is definitely part of the process out here, these boys are in their formative years,” the former Australian captain said.

“The dream for every young boy is playing for Australia, I was lucky enough to get there and hopefully these trials are a good way to help these guys playing [yesterday] to give them a chance.

“As an example, we’ve had guys like Trent Copeland, who has played test cricket, play in this and go on to a first-class career.”

Booth, who starred for Western Zone, St George, NSW and Australia in a long, successful career, said he always look forward to the trial in Orange  between Western Zone under 15s and St George, which started in 1994-95.

“Originally, I think it was Steve Bernard (former Australian team manager and Orange City stalwart) who established it,” Booth said.

“It gives me a chance to continue my association with the area, which is great. It’s a great honour to present it every trial.

“It’s into its 21st year now, and Western have definitely had an edge. I think they’ve won 15 to five so far, which really is by-the-by.”

A little-known fact is the Bathurst-born, Perthville-raised cricketer’s talents were not restricted to the cricket pitch, he also represented Australia at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics.

“I actually played more tennis than anything,” Booth explained.

“I didn’t pick up a hockey stick until I was around 15. I only had the two goals as a kid really, one was to play test cricket for my country and the other was to be a physical education teacher.

“It’s a process, but mine has been a wonderful journey.”