Davis, who was in a similar situation back in 1969-70 when selected on the Australian Schoolboys’ tour of the West Indies, gained local community backing to ensure he was able to make the trip.

On numerous occasions Davis has spoken about how that support and that tour ultimately set him on his path to become a Test cricketer.

And it is something he has never forgotten.

Davis has often recalled how much that local support meant.

At last year’s Shoalhaven Junior Cricket 50th anniversary dinner, at which he was a special guest, Davis again acknowledged the support of the community all those years ago.

He went on to play 15 Tests for his country including the famous 1977 Centenary Test in Melbourne.

When contacted by the South Coast Register Davis, who is equipment manager at Dunlop Slazenger, was only too happy to offer support for Matthews.

Within days a Slazenger bat signed by Australian vice-captain Michael Clarke arrived.

The Register has had it framed and it is planned to run a raffle to help support Matthews’ endeavours.

Details on when and where tickets will be on sale will be announced shortly.

Davis has also contacted Matthews with the offer of making Slazenger equipment available prior to the tour.

Matthews, who has to raise almost $5000 for the tour said the support he has received has been mind blowing.

“It has just been fantastic,” the young allrounder said.

“I honestly never expected to receive so much support – it is just fantastic.

“I can’t thank everyone enough for all their help.”

The 15-year-old St John’s High School student who plays both juniors and seniors with the Bomaderry club, will leave on the tour at the start of the 2009-10 season (September 27).

The young Aussies will play six games in 12 days while on tour including Twenty20 clashes and one-day affairs, and some games under lights.

Matthews has also gained support from Shoalhaven business including John McGuire at Slater and Gordon Lawyers, Colin Barnes, from A Greenkeepers Touch, and Loyd Crome, from Bomaderry Squash and Fitness Centre.

And the Shoalhaven Junior Cricket committee has also come on board making a donation to help cover some of the costs.

Other local clubs are also being encouraged to offer support, as they did with Davis many years ago.

A successful fundraising dinner was held at local Indian restaurant Kohli’s, which also put the youngster well on track to achieve his goal.

If anyone would like back Jordan’s efforts they can contact him care of South Coast Register sports editor Rob Crawford on 44219123.