Caitlin is Lancs all over

RED ROSE . . . Caitlin McDonald will join up with Lancashire under-13s in the new year

WITH the nights drawing in, one young cricketer is already dreaming of long, summer days.

For Caitlin McDonald is eagerly looking forward to another season in the Lancashire ranks.

The 11-year-old Austerlands star has been picked for the club's under-13s squad for 2017.

All-rounder Caitlin, who bowls left arm medium pace, has enjoyed two successful years with Lancashire under-11s and is now ready to take the next step.

Despite her previous efforts at Old Trafford which included a terrific display in this year's four-day festival in Malvern, Worcestershire, the Waterhead Academy pupil still had to impress county selectors at a series of trials.

Mum Claire said: "There were between 40 and 45 of them competing for places, so there was plenty of competition.

"She was really chuffed when she found out she had been picked.

"Considering she only started playing cricket two or three years ago, she has done well.

"She took three wickets in an over against Kent, who are one of best sides, in Malvern."

Brother Euan played his part in getting Caitlin into the game.

She watched him at net sessions at Austerlands' ground and decided to have a go herself.

Playing alongside the boys, in the season just gone, she picked up the batsman of the year award for her age group.

Lancashire training kicks into gear in January with indoor nets, before the season really gets under way in April.

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