With cricket returning to the Isle of Man Youth Games in 2009 a series of changes have been made to cope with the expected rise in the game's popularity.

The 2009 season will see an increase in teams competing in the under-15 and U-13 leagues on the island.

Both age groups will move to 'hard ball' matches, played on a proper league basis at the same venue after several years of 'soft ball' games.

A new Under-9 division will deliver soft-ball tournaments.

Training sessions for the Manx Youth Games are already well under way with sessions being held at Ramsey Grammar School, Castle Rushen High School, Queen Elizabeth School in Peel and at the NSC.

Trials are also being held for the island's Under-15 squad, who are set to compete in the European Division Two championships in Italy.

Twenty six players turned out at the NSC under the watchful eye of Cricket Development Officer Gareth Dawson.

The names of those chosen are expected to be announced soon.

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