EPD U18 show summer promise

Kent's Adam Ball again underlined his growing promise in England colours with a decisive 83 against Derbyshire 2nd XI

The ECB’s Elite Player Development Programme Under-18s completed successive victories over Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire 2nd XIs as their preparation for the summer gathered pace.

EPD U18 recorded a convincing seven-wicket win over Notts 2nd XI at the National Cricket Performance Centre in Loughborough on Wednesday and followed it up with a one-wicket defeat of Derbyshire 2nd XI at the same venue a day later.

Jack Taylor showcased his predatory potential with 4-46 as EPD U18 restricted Notts to 226 on a good pitch.

And, after claiming 2-21 himself during Notts’ innings, Kent’s Daniel Bell-Drummond smashed 88 off 108 delivers to guide EPD U18 to a comfortable win.

Derbyshire gave the youngsters a sterner test the following day, but again they successfully chased with a 132-run eighth-wicket partnership between Kent’s Adam Ball (83) and Somerset’s Lewis Gregory (73) proving the difference.

Coach Adrian Birrell said: “It was pleasing to win both matches and observe the high levels of ability and execution of skills. The week proved a good exercise in assessing talent and preparation for matches.”

England Under-19s face Sri Lanka this summer beginning on July 21 at Northampton.

Scorecards:

EPD U18 v Nottinghamshire 2nd XI - June 2 2010 (88 KB)
EPD U18 v Derbyshire 2nd XI - June 3 2010 (92 KB)