[3] Initially a bowling-focused all-rounder, Young's batting prowess shone during his first-class debut in the 1999–2000 Logan Cup.
[3] His early cricket career was marked by achievements, including making it to the school's first team in Form Three and captaining it for most of his high-school years.
[3] He made strides on the national stage, playing for the national Under-19 team, participating in the 1998 Under-19 Cricket World Cup in South Africa, and attending a coaching course with former England all-rounder Robin Jackman in 1997.
[3] Despite a back injury in 1999, he was able to play for the Australian Academy and spent two successful seasons with Barnard's Green in Worcestershire.
[3] Young made several changes to his game, including adjustments to his bowling action, grip, and batting style under the guidance of Carl Rackemann and Murray Goodwin.