WORCESTERSHIRE Academy stars Neil Pinner and Matt Pardoe have been called up to the England under 15 squad.

Batsman Pinner and all-rounder Pardoe have been included in a 15-man party that will play a series of matches at Loughborough University's National Cricket Centre.

They will face Scotland under 17s and Barbados under 16s over the next two weeks.

County academy director Damian D'Oliveira said that he was pleased the youngsters were getting recognition for their efforts.

He said: "Naturally I am happy to see Neil and Matt called up for England as it is nice to see the rewards of their hard work with the academy paying off for them.

"They've both been with the academy for several years now and are talented players.

"As far as them making it into the first team, I'd say watch this space. It's up to them how far they go because they are certainly talented."