Talented teenagers off to Sandwell

Just five months after the launch of its Cricket Academy, two talented teenagers at the Oldbury College of Sport have been called up to play for Sandwell.

All-rounders Usman Mateen, 15, and Jamail Ahmed, 14, have been included in the under-15s squad for five matches against local districts, the first of which is against South Staffs on July 30.

Community development manager Harshad Patel, who plays in the Birmingham League, said: "It's given the boys a chance to play for Sandwell and play competitive cricket.

"There's so much raw potential in Sandwell. Some have played for county cricket junior teams at 13.

"If they perform on this stage, then we can hopefully link them up with a club and make sure they go in the right direction. It's all about giving them the opportunity."

Jamail's father Shah added: "I'm very proud of him. He's never had any coaching. To me it's not just a sport, it's a social thing and a discipline."