THE Netherfield Cricket Club bowler who received a call-up to play for the England Deaf squad in the world championships in Dubai has returned, having made it to the final.

Matthew Clinton, 31, of Kendal, took six wickets and was capped four times during the tournament, which saw England face teams from India, Pakistan and South Africa.

Unfortunately the team lost in the final to Pakistan by three wickets, however Clinton, who has also played for England in Australia, South Africa and Holland, spoke of the value of the tournament to the team.

"It was one of the best tournaments I have been involved in," he said.

"The standard of cricket was a lot better than in previous competitions. I feel that we have got a good squad that is capable of competing to be world number one.

"Deaf cricket is quite well funded in England and it is growing slowly in other countries. The organisers did well to make this tournament happen."

The championships got off to an uncertain start, as the first game against South Africa had to be called off due to stormy conditions.

England then went on to beat a side from Pakistan by a margin of 16 runs in a closely fought match.

The next match, against India, went England's way, as the Indian team were disqualified when one of their players was found to be violating the rules and playing with a hearing aid in.

The finals saw England win the toss and establish a lead of 226 runs; a good score for the slow pitch they were playing on at Sharjah.

However a formidable partnership within the Pakistan team meant that they caught up and managed to win the game.

Clinton, who has suffered from an ankle injury over the past two seasons, said: "I was able to play in all of the games, which I wasn't expecting.

"Even though we were rained off and there was a disqualification, it was great to be picked for the team.

"I would like to say thank you to all the family and friends who supported me, and to Netherfield CC."

Clinton hopes to be playing for Netherfield again this season, with pre-season friendlies starting in early April.