Family Connections Highlighted in England U19 Squad for Sri Lanka Series
The England Men’s Under-19 squad for their upcoming three-match youth ODI series against Sri Lanka features several notable family ties. The 16-player roster, selected to gain international experience, includes the son of former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff and the son of ex-South Africa batter and current Lancashire head coach Dale Benkenstein.
Rocky Flintoff Impresses for Lancashire 2nd XI
At just 16 years old, Rocky Flintoff has already impressed while playing for the Lancashire 2nd XI this season. He made his debut just two days after his 16th birthday and scored a maiden century in April against Warwickshire 2nd XI at Edgbaston. Flintoff’s father, Andrew, is currently in the Caribbean as part of the England coaching staff for the T20 World Cup.
Luc Benkenstein to Captain the Squad
The squad will be captained by Essex all-rounder Luc Benkenstein, son of Dale Benkenstein. Nine players from the U19 World Cup squad earlier this year in South Africa have been included, although England failed to advance past the group stage, finishing sixth overall.
“We have selected an exciting squad for the series, with a blend of some players who are currently playing in the Vitality Blast and some younger players for whom it will be their first time in an Under-19s squad,” said England Men U19s coach Mike Yardy. “As always, it’s a great opportunity for the players to perform in an England Under-19 shirt and to experience international cricket.”
County Select XI Match Against West Indies
Ben McKinney, who captained the team at the World Cup, and Hamza Shaikh will not be considered for this series as they are likely to feature for a County Select XI in a three-day match against the touring West Indies. That fixture, scheduled for July 3 at Beckenham, will be the only warm-up match for the West Indies ahead of their three-match Test series against England starting on July 10 at Lord’s.
The squad for the two-match Youth Test series against Sri Lanka is expected to be announced later this month.
🔗 Source