LANCASHIRE’S Academy squad for this year has been finalised – and Hoghton’s Emma Lamb has become only the third female to win a place in the elite set-up.

The 19-year-old, who plays for Palace Shield side Vernon Carus, joins the nine other young players – including her brother Danny, who is embarking on his second year with the Red Rose.

“I am hopeful that she has the potential to develop into a full international cricketer; an achievement our first female Academy player, Katy Cross, achieved this winter,” said Lancashire academy coach John Stanworth.

The squad of players includes four youngsters who are currently involved with England U17 and U19 programmes – Haseeb Hameed, Rob Jones, Saqib Mahmood and Ramsbottom’s Harry Dearden.

Matthew Parkinson is starting his third year with Lancashire following his award of the county’s Young Player of the Year.

Stanworth added: “I am also delighted to say we have selected four players onto Scholarships and they will be predominantly attached to the professional squads during the year ahead.

“Of these players three are quick bowlers, Liam Hurt, Adnam Ghaus and Tom Bailey.

“Tom and Adnam are in Australia and Pakistan respectively and Liam joins Academy batsman Haseeb Hameed at this level for the first time.

“All of these players will be challenged in the coming months to deliver on the potential they have.”