The Angling Trust report that the team is: Tom Pickering (Manager/Captain), Glenn Lawrence (Coach), Steve Ringer, Phil Ringer, Mick Vials, Adam Wakelin and Grant Albutt. In addition Glenn Lawrence, the current Barnsley Blacks captain, will be coaching the squad alongside Tommy.
This year the World Championship is being staged at Bloemhof Dam, which is a large water, almost 1000 miles around, with the species composition mostly carp with a few catfish.
England Team Manager and Captain, Tom Pickering said:
“I was in South Africa last November for a scouting mission, and found it to be an awesome place. I am really excited about this championship as it might be a once in a lifetime trip.
I have made two changes to the squad, leaving Darren Cox and Dean Barlow out and replacing them with Adam Wakelin and Grant Albutt. Having thanked Darren and Dean for their contribution for the past two years, they were disappointed, but they took it well and both said they would fight to get their places back, and that’s what I would expect.”
Dick Clegg, Angling Trust International Events Manager stated:
“Bloemhof Dam is not unknown to our international teams as both the carp team in 2008, and the ladies’ team in 2010 won silver medals there.
Tom has selected an extremely strong squad and I see no reason why they should not improve on last year’s bronze medal in Belgium. Next year’s 2014 Feeder Championships is expected to be held a little nearer home at Inniscarra in Ireland”.
Sarah Phoenix, managing director of team sponsors Preston Innovations said:
“We’re excited to hear about the team changes Tommy has made and offer our full support to the new members of the squad. We’re sure that the whole crew will be working hard in the build up to November and we hope those efforts are rewarded with a good draw in South Africa.
With this year’s event requiring a different set of skills, we’re confident that Team England can clinch victory. Good luck to everyone involved.”
