Ex-Crosby schoolboy Gavin Griffiths rises to big Test at Old Trafford
IT MAY have been a day for everyone involved with Manchester cricket to celebrate with Ashes cricket returning to Old Trafford for the first time in eight years, but the Liverpool Competition also enjoyed its moment in the sun.
Gavin Griffths
Ormskirk Cricket Club player Gavin Griffiths took to the field with the England stars before the first day's play, warming up with the likes of Jimmy Anderson, Graeme Swann and captain Alistair Cook.
Griffiths, 19, who is from Ormskirk and attended St Mary's College in Crosby, is on the books at Lancashire and is currently a member of the England U19s squad.
As well as regularly running onto the playing area with drinks and equipment for the England players, Griffiths also provided net bowling for the side's batsman as they prepared for the crucial third Test.
Griffiths was joined in his 12th man duties by fellow Liverpool Competition player Alex Davies, 18, who plays for Lytham.
"It's a learning experience for them," said John Stanworth, Lancashire County Cricket Club's Academy Director.
"When any young player gets a taste of cricket a level above they are used to then it is going to be beneficial.
"We do it at Lancashire, with the scholarship and academy players taking part in training sessions with the first team to give them a taste of what it is like.
"Alex and Gavin are both England U19 internationals, so they know the system well. But they will pick up things which will enhance their games just by watching how the England players prepare."
Liverpool Cricket Competition chairman, John Williams said: "It is a great honour for both Gavin and Alex to be part of the England set up during the Old Trafford Test.
"They and their families can rightly feel proud. Both will benefit greatly from the experience.
"They spearhead the significant number of young cricketers within Liverpool Competition clubs currently selected as part of the Lancashire County age group system."