Being selected to represent England at the 2008 U19 Cricket World Cup came out of the blue in November. I was to join the team for seven weeks on tour: three in Colombo, Sri Lanka and a month in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
I had previously captained a victorious England U16 team against Australia last summer and performed well for Kent 2nd XI which had earned me a place in the side. My role within the team would be an all-rounder who could hopefully swing the ball in the humid conditions expected in Malaysia. Upon receiving news of my call up I immediately stepped up my training at Canterbury with Kent - at times practising in a bin liner and waterproof top to help replicate the intense heat that we were going to face! Two further practise camps were arranged at Loughborough University allowing the team to spend time together and do some final preparation before we flew out.
Although under armed guard in Sri Lanka the climate and culture was very appealing. We met some fantastic people and were treated like royalty everywhere we went. We were unfortunate in the tri-series tournament where we played against Pakistan and hosts Sri Lanka and failed to make the final. However I managed to score 63 not out as we defeated Sri Lanka in the international Pre Madasa stadium.
The World Cup itself was especially exciting. 16 countries contested including Australia, India and favourites Pakistan. After qualifying from the group stages we were drawn against a strong Indian side and were outplayed in the quarter-finals. However we were still to finish fifth in the competition, ahead of the Australians.
After an amazing seven weeks on tour I returned home with a good suntan and some wonderful memories. With news of an U19 tour to New Zealand next winter I hope I can perform this summer and retain my place.
By James Goodman
St Olave’s Grammar School
