WARRINGTON cricketer Rob Jones has been selected to play for England in the under 19s world cup.

Rob, who is studying BTEC Performance and Excellence level three at Priestley College, received his call-up after captaining a successful under 17s tour to South Africa last year.

“I feel I’ve worked hard for my place and I can’t wait to get out there,” said the Stockton Heath resident.

“I’m really happy to be going to the World Cup because it has been my goal for more than a year now.”

The 18-year-old flies to Dubai on January 31 and will compete in the ICC World Cup – which is held every two years – in February.

It is being staged in the United Arab Emirates and follows a tri-series versus the host nation and Pakistan.

England’s first fixture of the tournament is against the UAE on February 14 and will be televised on Sky Sports.

Katie Jones, a sports tutor at Priestley College, said: “We’re so happy for Rob and all he has achieved so far.

“It doesn’t get any better than representing your country at a sport you love and we believe he will do his college, town and country proud.”

Rob secured his place after impressing for Lancashire’s seconds last summer and during England’s winter tour in the UAE.

He’s also been a regular for Toft Cricket Club in Knutsford for several years.

The leg-break bowler, who started playing cricket at Stretton when he was boy, believes he can lead his side to success on the month-long tour.

“Knockout cricket is the toughest and most intense that I will play,” he said.

“We have a good team and if we can get that first win I am sure we can get on a roll.”