Three students from Camborne Science and International Academy have been selected for an Under 13 Boys Cricket Tour in South Africa.

The Cornwall Cricket Board and Cornwall Schools Cricket Association have been hosting tours to the country for over 20 years, with three CSIA students who play for Camborne Cricket Club making the final selection.

Jake Symons, 13; Jacob Macdonald and Jensen Burrell, both 12, and all in year eight, will join the Cornwall team as they tour South Africa as part of a mixed age Under 13 boys and Under 17 girls squad.

Neil Symons, youth coordinator at Camborne Cricket Club added: "In an attempt to continue to sharpen the playing skills of the young players, the association seeks to find top class opposition every year. It was in 1994 when the CSCA first embarked on their international tours to South Africa and they have proven hugely successful ever since.”

Steve Simmonds, director of key stage three, said: “We are absolutely delighted for our students who have worked so hard in what was a very tough selection process. There is no shortage of talented players in Cornwall and it’s testament to their determination and commitment that they have been chosen.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for the students to continue their development within the sport of cricket. The students will be experiencing extremely high levels of competition throughout the tour as well as having the opportunity to explore the beautiful sights of South Africa. As a school, we have every confidence that Jensen, Jacob and Jake will be fantastic ambassadors on their travels and we all look forward to hearing about the trip on their return.

“For any young cricketer, this is a magnificent occasion and will provide our students with numerous learning opportunities. Sport is such a great thing to be involved with and this trip gives young people a chance to excel at a game they love and enhance their overall education and experience of life.”

Jacob said: “I’m looking forward to developing my game and facing the challenge that playing against the South Africans will give me. I’m really excited about having this experience with a great bunch of friends.”

The squad is due to set off for Johannesburg on Wednesday, February 10, and will play matches both there, and in Cape Town. They will fly home on February 24.

“We wish our students and the Cornwall team a wonderful trip, we hope they enjoy every minute of the tour, both on and off the field,” said Ian Kenworthy, principal at CSIA. “It’s experiences like this that help develop vital skills, improve personal development and provide memories which will last a lifetime. We wish everybody the best of luck for a winning and enjoyable tour.”