A TALENTED young cricketer has made history after becoming the first girl to represent King's School, Worcester's first team.

Fifth-year student Sophie Le Marchand, 16, was selected for two weekend fixtures against Malvern College and Bishops Veseys Grammar School, which King's won by three and seven wickets respectively.

It is the latest success for wicketkeeper Sophie, who has gained recognition at county and international level.

The Dominies and Guild cricketer was picked for the England U15 squad at the age of 12 and progressed to Worcestershire women's U13, U15, U17 and adult team.

Sophie has also lined up for Worcestershire Boys U16 and Midland Women team in the regional U19 Super Fours.

"The boys game is much harder, especially facing the bowlers," points out Sophie. "But I enjoy the challenge. When I bat, I have to try and drive the ball into the gaps instead of looking for boundaries."

Kempsey-based Sophie models her game on England Women's wicket-keeper Jane Smit and harbours to play for England U19s.

Antony Gillgrass, in charge of King's School first XI, said: "Sophie has played for her age group all the way through the juniors and has progressed to the team in her own right.

"She is a very talented wicketkeeper-batsman."

King's School was re-founded over 460 years ago and first admitted girls to its junior school in 1989.