'We have just acquired a new Jonty Rhodes' says Ian Blackwell

Somerset players were once again to the fore in the eight wicket victory over Border at East London in England's final warm up match ahead of the World Cup that gets underway when hosts South Africa take on West Indies in Cape Town on Sunday.

Batting first the hosts were dismissed for 202, with Ian Blackwell bowling his four overs for just 22 runs.

In reply England openers Marcus Trescothick and Nick Knight got their side off to a flying start,by taking 81 off the first 13 overs. Trescothick was out for 58 with the score on 100, whilst his fellow left hander remained at the wicket until the end, by which time he was on 81, to see England comfortably home with more than 12 overs to spare.

Ian Blackwell who played in the first warm up match against Eastern Province who included James Bryant in their line up told me a little more the Ciderman's new signing when he contacted me earlier today.

`Blackie' told me: "James batted at number 3 and looked composed and very patient. He played a couple of good drives and left the ball really well and seemed to know where his off stump was. Eventually he was out to a rising ball back from Andy Caddick, so no surprise there, but he certainly looked the part."

There was some more good news for Somerset followers when he added: "More importantly I think coach Kevin Shine will be pleased to know that we have just acquired a new Jonty Rhodes style backward point fielder. He was very athletic and had great hands which would help us out a great deal in that position."

Meanwhile England Under 19's lost the third and final match of their three match series against their Australian counterparts, and lost the series two matches to one.

Resuming in Sydney on 102 for 5 the England youngsters were narrowly defeated when they were bowled out just 15 runs short of their required total of 191.

After being the first England Under 19 side to beat Australia on their own turf in the first Test match, during which Cornishman Neil Edwards scored a magnificent 97,the young tourists will no doubt be disappointed with the outcome of this match.