TWO Frome bowlers have been selected for the England men’s senior international trials to be held this week.
Graham Shadwell and Russell Francis both play for Frome-based club Clarrie Dunbar and have impressed selectors enough to take part in trials in Leicestershire on Friday. The event brings together the best bowlers in the country who compete for a place in the national side.
Graham said, “It is great to be involved and will be a bit weird after not being involved in the international team for a while. Two years ago I got selected but suffered a shoulder injury and pulled out, so I will give it a good go this time and see what happens.
“Two or three people have dropped out, so it makes me feel I have a chance. I have been away from it for a bit having been busy playing in the Australian Premier League and then preparing for the Commonwealth Games before that didn’t happen. I am fully committed and I hope to do well.”
Russell is also looking forward to the challenge. He said, “It was a bit of a shock to be honest, I never expected the opportunity and I am under no illusions as to how tough it will be. It is really hard to break into the national side and there will be some top guys there, but it helps having Graham there as he is a superstar in the sport and someone I look up to.
“I am going into it hoping I get selected as everybody does, but I will just aim to do my best and see where it takes me. I damaged my knee a few years ago so it is great to be back and hopefully I can do myself justice.”
Brian Hawkins from Clarrie Dunbar said, “The club is very proud that two of its players have been selected for the England trials, with there being approximately 300 indoor clubs in the country; it’s great that two players from a medium-sized rural club can be recognised.
“Both players have regularly reached the Indoor National finals stages; with Graham winning the Indoor Champion of Champions Singles in 2013 and Premier 3s singles title in 2014.
“Russell had trialled for England in 2010 and Graham has been an established England international in the past and it’s good to see him recalled.”
