The NSW Blues have named a 12-player squad, including as many as five potential debutants, for their Sheffield Shield season opener against Tasmania at Cricket Central starting Thursday, October 8.
Charlie Stobo will captain the Blues for the first time, becoming the club's 123rd first-class captain. Stobo, who made his state debut in 2016, will be supported by vice-captain Sean Abbott.
Stobo was elevated to the role after Nic Maddinson was named in Australia's Test squad for the tour of South Africa, Cricket NSW said.
The Blues will also be without Sam Konstas, Josh Philippe, Ben Dwarshuis, Tanveer Sangha and Lachlan Shaw, who remain on the Australia A tour of India. Liam Hatcher, who returned from the subcontinent on Tuesday, is being managed by the Blues.
Jake Scott and Riley Kingsell, who were among the leading performers in the Blues' One-Day Cup win over Brisbane last month, are in line to receive a Baggy Blue this week. They will be joined by recruit Bryce Jackson.
St George's Reiley Mark and Mosman's Brock Fitton have earned their maiden state call-ups after strong performances in McDonald's NSW Premier Cricket, Cricket NSW said.
Kurtis Patterson, who sustained a groin injury during the One-Day Cup win in Brisbane, is tracking well in his recovery and is expected to be available for the Shield opener.
Jack Edwards returns to the squad after making his one-day international debut for Australia in South Africa. Joel Davies, who sustained a right hamstring strain during Australia's recent ODI series against South Africa, is not in the squad as he continues his recovery.
The 12-player squad named by Cricket NSW is: Charlie Stobo (c), Sean Abbott, Oliver Davies, Jack Edwards, Brock Fitton, Ryan Hicks, Bryce Jackson, Riley Kingsell, Reiley Mark, Kurtis Patterson, Will Salzmann and Jake Scott.
NSW head coach Brad Haddin will front media at Cricket Central on Wednesday, October 7 at 12.30pm AEDT, ahead of the match.
The four-day Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania runs from Thursday, October 8 to Sunday, October 11, with the first day's play beginning at 10.30am AEDT at Cricket Central, 161 Silverwater Road, Sydney Olympic Park.
The match will be broadcast on cricket.com.au and Kayo Sports.