Nineteen year old Cantabrian Tim Johnston has been selected as the next recipient of the Lord’s Scholarship. Officially known as the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) Young Cricketers Program, it is set up to provide expert coaching, intensive playing programs and world-class facilities to the next generation of First Class cricketers.
During the 2009/2010 season Johnston was selected to be one of 58 up and coming young cricketers to be a part of the national Elite Player Development Program (EPDP) which was put in place to nurture and develop the talent of tomorrow. Canterbury Cricket Network Coach, Paul Wiseman, has been keeping a watchful eye over Johnston’s progress this season ‘Tim is naturally an attacking bowler – always looking at how to get the batsman out rather than restrict runs. He’s also the first to put his hand up to bowl in tough situations such as power plays and at the death. I’m sure his attitude, combined with this wonderful opportunity he has in England this winter, will hold him in good stead as he progresses with his career.’
The off spinner also played an integral part in the New Zealand Under 19 World Cup side during the recent tournament held in Christchurch. He contributed to New Zealand’s seven wicket victories against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe by taking three wickets in each match as well as being the only New Zealand bowler not to bowl any wides in the match against Zimbabwe.
‘I am delighted to be among the sixteen cricketers from around the world chosen for the Lords Scholarship. I see this as a solid building block to first class cricket. Having the opportunity to play so much cricket this winter will hopefully give me the edge I need to stand out to the Wizards selectors. I am following some big footsteps in this program like Ross Taylor and just hope the experience will take me to the same heights’ said Johnston.
As part of the scholarship program Johnston will play at least four days of cricket per week in the competitive 2nd XI Championship and Trophy competitions and will become a member of the Lords ground staff assisting in the day to day maintenance of the world class ground as well as offering support during major international matches.
Johnston follows in the footsteps on some world class cricketers who have graduated from the Lord’s Scholarship Program including Black Cap Ross Taylor, Australian great Mark Waugh as well as former New Zealand international and Canterbury Cricket CEO, Lee Germon.
