One step closer for Jodie

Published on isbi School News dated Monday 11th of March 2013

SIXTH Form student, Jodie Dibble, is about to take another step closer to being a member of the full England women's cricket team.

Jodie has been selected for the England Academy's trip to Sri Lanka from March 2nd to 15th.

It will be her third spell with the Academy, which feeds the senior squad, after previous visits to India and South Africa and caps her recovery from a shoulder operation in September.

The squad will be based in Colombo and play a series of matches against Sri Lankan boys' teams.

'I'm delighted to be called up it was very unexpected because I have been out injured,' said Jodie.

The trip will mean her A-level studies being slightly interrupted but she is determined to keep on top of her academic work during the time away.

'I'll be taking work with me and will also be keeping in touch with my teachers via email,' she added.

'We will have time set aside for studying while away and I will have a week back at school to catch up before the Easter holidays.'

Jodie, who played for England Under-17s and whose brother Adam plays for Somerset, has also negotiated her own sponsorship deal.

She is being backed by B3 Cricket, a bespoke bat manufacturer based in Nottingham, who will be providing her with a range of kit and equipment.

Headmaster, Dr John Newton, said: 'I am so proud of Jodie. She has led many teams in the school with integrity and dedication.

'She has bravely battled back from injury and is now back on an upward trajectory. We wish her every success.'