Eden-based Cumbria cricket over-50s skipper Paul McKeown reflected on a thoroughly enjoyable experience at an England over-60s selection trial.

Half a century after Paul, now 61, first began playing the game as an 11-year-old, he was put through his paces at the impressive National Cricket Performance Centre at Loughborough University.

The trial brought together some of the most accomplished senior cricketers from across the country.

Thirty-five players — including ex-professional football goalkeeper Nigel Martyn — were picked from a 120-strong long list.

They participated in sessions which served as a pivotal step in selecting a national squad for the 2026 over-60s World Cup, which takes place in Toronto, Canada, in August.

Paul, who plays club cricket for Workington CC, was invited to the trial after impressing for Cumbria over-50s last season.

“I was then injured playing cricket in June. I tore my meniscus and shattered my cartilage. I thought I was finished. I laid off and started to build my fitness up,” he told the Herald.

“I got the call (about England trials) in February. I thought it was a bit of a wind-up. I was shocked.”

At Loughborough last month, players were put through gruelling sessions and scrutinised not only on their primary disciplines of batting, bowling, and fielding but also on their individual fitness levels — an element of the game that is becoming increasingly vital for experienced players at the international level.

“The standard was exceptionally good. Senior cricket is one of the fastest growing sports in the country at the moment. It was very much a ‘pinch-me’ moment,” said Paul.

“I don’t know if it’s because I’m Cumbrian but I had a bit of an inferiority complex; imposter syndrome. I am the only Cumbrian to have ever made it this far. But once you get over the ‘should I be here’ perspective, you think ‘I’ve got a chance’.”

Paul has earned a reputation as a competent medium-pace bowler and a highly dependable lower-order batsman, and a Cumbria over-50s spokesman hailed national recognition as a “fitting reward for his skill and dedication to the sport”.

“It was a thoroughly enjoyable experience,” said Paul. “Whilst it is a great personal accolade, the bigger picture is that there is a route for players there. You can do it. If I can do it then I’m sure there are others who could as well.

“Cumbria is now on the map. We’re not the best team about but we’ve progressed a hell of a lot in the last 10 years. This is testament to what work we’ve put in — that we’re now getting recognised.”

Paul added: “Age is no barrier. If you’re fit enough and you’ve got your health then give it a go. You’re a long time finished.”

A Cumbria over-50s spokesman said: “This is a wonderful boost for cricket in our local area. Paul’s invitation proves that the opportunity to represent your country remains available at any age. We are incredibly proud of his achievement and wish him the very best of luck in the next stages of selection.”

An England over-60s squad game is planned for later this month, and players who are selected for that, following the Loughborough trial, will be contacted in the coming days. Running alongside England over-60s’ extensive schedule this year is the Lions programme, which continues to provide a vital pathway for seasoned cricketers across the country to transition into the national setup.

Paul, of Brougham, near Penrith, is married to Claire, has two daughters, Eve and Mia, and is also a member of Eden Runners. His brother-in-law is ex-professional cricketer Paul Nixon, from Langwathby, who was capped by England at senior level.