A YOUNG cricketer from Sandford is appealing for community support after being selected to represent Devon County Girls’ Under-15s on an international tour to Sri Lanka next year.

Ellie Knight who attends Queen Elizabeth’s School and plays for Sandford Cricket Club, has launched a Crowdfunder campaign to help cover the £2,950 cost of the 12-day trip, taking place from February 8 to 20, 2026.

“It’s an amazing opportunity to play cricket overseas, learn about the country and cultures, and represent Devon, and Sandford cricket clubs,” Ellie said. “I’m so grateful for all the support I’ve had from everyone who’s helped me get this far.”

It is also a first for Sandford Cricket Club to have a brother and sister both being selected to attend these tours, with Ellie’s brother Ollie Knight travelling to South Africa last year.

Ellie has been part of Devon’s girls’ development squads since the Under-12 age group, as well as playing in Sandford U16s mixed and Sandford U16s girls’ teams and recently making her senior debut for Sandford Third XI team.

The tour will see Devon’s girls play several matches across Sri Lanka, train with local teams, and experience the country’s rich sporting culture.

To make the dream possible, Ellie and her team mates are responsible for raising all funds to secure their places on the tour and Ellie has launched a Crowdfunder at: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/help-ellie-represent-devon-cricket-in-sri-lanka

So far, generous supporters have helped raise more than £500, and Ellie hopes to reach her target in the coming weeks.

Local businesses and residents are encouraged to get involved - sponsors will be acknowledged in an official tour programme which will be distributed widely in hard copy and digitally on all Devon Cricket’s social media platforms.

Ellie adds: “Any help, no matter how small, makes a huge difference. I can’t wait to represent my home county and my hometown proudly on the tour.”