The Isle of Man Cricket Association is delighted to announce that 18 year-old Ricky Kniveton has been selected to join a group of 16 under-21 cricketers from the European Cricket Council member countries to participate in a week long coaching session at La Manga, Spain.

The Crosby wicket-keeper batsman, currently at Durham University, will fly out to Spain in April 22nd for the seven day spell during which he will receive expert tuition, including fitness and dietary training.

Philip Hudson, ICC Regional Development Officer commented, “This is a wonderful opportunity for Ricky and all the players selected to develop their cricketing skills further. The European Academy has moved on greatly since it's original time in Spain and all players must be aware of the need to act professionally throughout their time at La Manga. Over the last three years the dedication of the players selected has been excellent to see and I look forward to this continuing.

I can also confirm that the playing programme has been finalised. From the 16 selected players the squad will be trimmed down to a final 13. These 13 players will represent the ECC in a three-day game against a Warwickshire Academy side and in a one-day game against Loughborough UCCE. The playing programme will take place from the 25th - 29th June.”

Ricky is another example of the success of the Isle of Man Sports Aid Foundation’s policy of providing financial assistance to young sports players, having supported him since 2003. During the summer, a shoulder injury followed by a dislocated thumb required specialised medical treatment which was provided as part of the Sports Council’s support programme.

In 2006, he represented the Derbyshire CCC Academy in addition to maintaining his progress with Chesterfield Cricket Club. He is contracted to Dunlop Slazenger International who supply his kit and is currently training with the Durham University senior squad alongside the current England under-19 wicket-keeper.

Upon learning of his selection Ricky was understandably pleased. “I will be working very hard to make the final 13, and with the La Manga trip and a full season at Chesterfield it will be a busy summer. Last year I missed out on a chance to play fir Derbyshire’s 2nd XI, so that is another target and I should be available for selection for the Isle of Man under-19 and senior tours to Jersey and Belgium.”