February 22-23, 2010

Moama Bowling Club has been confirmed as the battleground for test warfare next year when Australia confronts England in a vital pre-Commonwealth Games hit out.

As momentum continues to build towards Delhi, Australia will clash with the old enemy over two action packed days, with the test match featuring singles, pairs and triples for both men and women.

Staged from February 22 to 23, 2010, world number two Leif Selby and world number three Kelsey Cottrell will spearhead Australia’s assault against England, with the competition likely to have a significant bearing on the final side that is sent to India.

With England having already named its Commonwealth Games team, the “Moama International” is considered crucial to both nations preparations for Delhi.

Among the 12 selected to represent Australia include Commonwealth Games gold medallists Mark Jacobsen, Karen Murphy, Wayne Turley and the re-called Mark Casey, as well as Lee Schraner and teenage sensation Natasha Van Eldik, who will make their international debuts.

England’s line-up features world champions Ellen Faulkner, Amy Monkhouse and Merv King.

“We’re all looking forward to seeing 24 of the world’s finest bowlers competing at the Moama International,” Moama Bowling Club CEO Paul Barnes said.

“The Moama International will be crucial to both nations’ preparations for Delhi and we’re delighted to provide the stage for them to compete.

“With the venue having undergone a multi-million dollar transformation we’re looking forward to seeing the best of the best competing in our own backyard and there is no bigger series than Australia versus England.”

Newly appointed Australian coach Rex Johnston said he was happy with the makeup of his team.

“It wasn’t easy narrowing the squad from 28 to 12 but we’re confident that the team we have selected will do us proud.,” Johnston said.

“We’ve given an opportunity to a couple of new players, who have been in the mix for quite a while, and we’re interested to see how they will go.

“Mark and Sharyn have been around for quite some time and they’ve represented Australia with distinction previously, but there’s quite a way to go between now (and Delhi).

“England is going to be the benchmark and we know we will have to perform.”