YOUNG cricketers from a Lytham school are to follow in the footsteps of the England Test team by touring Sri Lanka in July.

Captained by 18-year-old Tristan Thompson the King Edward VII and Queen Mary School are going on an eight match tour which includes games on test match grounds in Colombo, Kandy and Galle.

School cricket coach Andy Weston visited Sri Lanka over Christmas to finalise arrangements and he is expecting a demanding series.

He said: "Muttiah Muralitheraran is an idol for all Sri Lanka's young players, so we can expect to face a number of high quality spinners.

"I was impressed by the facilities and the stadiums and am hoping to include a day-night match under floodlights on the itinerary."

Skipper Tristan Thompson added: "We have five players with Lancashire Schools' experience including our opening batsman Jack Kelliher who is in the England U15 squad.

"Much will depend on our two specialist spinners Lorin Smith and Chris Pickles but I am confident we will give a good account of ourselves.

Pictured are team members (from left) Chris Roberts, Jack Kelliher, Tristan Thompson, Alan Whitmore and Ben Hall.