BURNLEY-BORN all-rounder Jonathan Clare admits he is on cloud nine after taking the next step in his meteoric rise in professional cricket.

Clare, 22, released by Lancashire in 2005, has risen to prominence with Derbyshire after two full seasons in their second team.

In 2008, he scored 555 runs at an average of 42.79 and taking 31 wickets at 28.09, picking up the most improved player award at Derbyshire’s end of year player awards.

His displays have now been recognised on a national scale, after being selected for the ECB’s bowling skills set.

Clare is among a group of six bowlers being assessed at the National Academy in Loughborough for a week, before travelling to Florida for a month-long strength and conditioning camp that ends on December 21.

Clare will then have the opportunity of working with legendary Australian fast-bowler Dennis Lillee in India in early February.

“To enjoy a full season in the first team, taking wickets and scoring runs, is more than I could have possibly hoped for,” said Clare.

“I always had confidence in my ability, but during two-and-a-half seasons in the Derbyshire second team, and particularly when I left Lancashire, a career in the game looked a very distant dream.”

Clare is hoping to follow in the footsteps of fellow Burnley pace ace James Anderson, saying: “He is now an established part of the England team and I would love to join him one day.”