Cricket

Tilly Corteen-Coleman, the 17-year-old spinner who impressed in the Women's Hundred, has been named in England's 15-player squad for the upcoming Women's Under-19 World Cup in Malaysia.Corteen-Coleman made a strong debut for Southern Brave in the Hundred, dismissing Australia's Meg Lanning. She also impressed for South East Stars in domestic competitions, claiming 5 for 19 against Northern Diamonds.Davina Perrin, who was part of England's squad that lost to India in the inaugural Under-19 tournament in 2023, is also included. A captain will be named closer to the tournament.Sixteen teams will participate in the 41-match event from January 18 to February 2, 2025. England has been drawn in Group B alongside Ireland, Pakistan, and USA.Chris Guest, Performance Lead for the women's Under-19 set-up, said he is excited to guide another group of young players through their maiden global event. He emphasized the importance of the tournament for player development, citing the examples of Ryana MacDonald-Gay, Hannah Baker, Seren Smale, and Charis Pavely, who have all represented the senior team after playing in the Under-19 World Cup.Guest will be joined by assistant coaches Dan Helesfay and Beth Morgan. Morgan, a former England international, currently works as a Regional Talent Manager for Southern Vipers.Richard Bedbrook, Head of England Women Performance Pathways, said the quality of the squad highlights the work of the regional teams. He expressed hope that the players and staff will benefit from the experience.Five non-travelling reserves have also been selected: Maria Andrews, Sophie Beech, Daisy Gibb, Poppy Tulloch, and Annie Williams.

Rocky Flintoff, the 16-year-old son of legendary England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff, has taken a significant step in his cricketing journey by signing his first professional contract with Lancashire. The promising young batsman has impressed with his performances for the Lancashire 2nd XI this season, earning him a place in the England Under-19s squad.Flintoff's journey with Lancashire began at the age of 8, and he has since progressed through the club's academy system. His talent was evident in his four appearances for the 2nd XI this season, where he showcased his batting prowess with a half-century against Durham and a century against Warwickshire.The similarities between Rocky's batting technique and that of his father have drawn attention on social media, highlighting the potential he possesses. His signing with Lancashire is a testament to his hard work and dedication, and it marks a significant milestone in his cricketing career."I'm very happy and excited to have signed my first professional contract with Lancashire," said Rocky Flintoff. "It's something that I've been working towards since I started playing cricket, so to sign for my home county is a dream come true."Lancashire's director of cricket performance, Mark Chilton, praised Rocky's performances and attitude. "He has impressed the coaching staff with his performances and determined attitude for the Second XI already this season," said Chilton. "He is a grounded individual and knows the work starts now for him to fulfil his potential in the years ahead."Rocky's father, Andrew Flintoff, made his Lancashire debut in 1995 and went on to become one of England's most iconic all-rounders. He played over 200 times across formats and played a pivotal role in England's Ashes victory in 2005. Rocky will now look to follow in his father's footsteps and establish himself as a top-class cricketer.