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The Gibraltar development squad visiting La Manga in late August comprised of a group of Gibraltar’s most talented 10-14 year old players that have been training as a squad since Easter. The main concepts behind the trip were to give a long term focus to practise throughout the season and to provide them the opportunity to play in a different environment. The majority of the players had never even played on a grass outfield!

The facilities at La Manga more than justified the long journey down. Two, full size pitches with superbly kept outfields and six artificial nets with full run ups were available to us. The time put in by Neil Brook and George Wambeek of the Spanish Cricket Association in organising the event ensured that both days ran smoothly and GCA would like to reiterate our gratitude to them both.

Two, 35 over fixtures were played verses a Spanish U15 team, which also included a number of younger players. Many of the Spanish team were involved in last year’s ECC U15 tournament in Italy and have clearly made rapid progress under the guidance of Neil and George since.

In the first game on the Saturday, Spain were winners and the second game on the Sunday saw victory go to Gibraltar.

The weekend was both hugely enjoyable and valuable for the development of both teams. It was particularly pleasing to see the obvious improvement in standard from both teams from the Saturday fixture to the Sunday.