MALVERN College’s rising star Will Vanston is tipped to reach the prestigious Neptune National Schools Under 16s Rackets Championships finals at London’s Queen’s Club next week.

The stylish 15-year-old left-hander was a finalist in the under 15s competition last year and is seeded to meet the holder, Tonbridge’s Jonny Maltz, in the final.

Vanston, also a fine junior squash player, is on a sports scholarship at the college.

He looks one of the brightest prospects of his generation, despite his diminutive stature and unorthodox double-handed backhand.

In the national schools doubles event in March, Vanston and partner Will Wright reached the semi-finals after an impressive run.

For Malvern rackets professional Tim Roberts, Vanston’s natural talent and dedication augur well for the future.

“I’m delighted Will is again rated one of the best young players in Britain,” Roberts enthused.

“He’s a terrific prospect in what’s an extremely strong year for junior rackets and one of the most naturally talented players we’ve had for years.

“His partner Will, who is also very promising, is playing in the colts singles too and we’ve got several other players competing in the different age groups.”

Rackets, which began in the 18th century, is the forerunner of squash with the small, hard white ball cracking round the high-walled courts at speeds of up to 160 mph.

The game is thriving at grassroots level with a record entry in this year’s National Schools Championships.

Malvern, Rugby and Eton are among the 14 schools where rackets is played in Britain.

But there are also six clubs and most of the schools’ professionals run evening classes.

Several current junior England cricketers and squash players will compete at Queen’s.