TAUNTON’S Ed Hossell admits finally making his international debut for England’s visually impaired cricket team at the Blind World Cup was a special occasion – but one that is taking a while to sink in.

Despite joining the England set up last year, the 21-year-old had not represented his country in a full international until facing Pakistan in the first game of the World Cup in South Africa last month.

Hossell, who plays for Somerset, proved to be an integral part of the side, appearing in every game as England triumphed over the hosts and Australia before falling to an eight-wicket defeat to Pakistan in the semi-finals.

And, despite failing to make the final, which saw India defeat Pakistan, Hossell believes a young England side can take plenty from their performances even if his role is taking some time to get used to.

He said: “It was an incredibly enjoyable tournament and the whole team atmosphere was amazing – the players gave it everything and we can be really proud.

“I really enjoyed my debut and it’s nice to think back on it now but at the time I was mainly just excited to get out on the field with the team as I’d been in the set up for a while but hadn’t played an international side.

“The Australia game was one I’ll remember fondly as we posted 469, which is an unbelievable score and then got a lot of run outs against them, which is something we’ve really been working on.

“It was a massive learning experience to play India and Pakistan because I’d never witnessed them play before – the amount of boundaries they hit and their power is incredible.

“We definitely have a lot to learn from their batting and their fielding as we’re more used to normal cricket whereas they play blind cricket amazingly.”

Hossell is adamant much of England’s recent success is down to a positive team ethos inspired by head coach Ross Hunter that ensures enjoyment both on and off the field.

And, with world champions India due to tour England next year, Hossell is confident they will be more than a match for their sub-continent opponents on home turf.

He added: “We’ve got a great squad and we all get on well so it was fantastic to get some time together afterwards to visit Robben Island and explore Cape Town and Table Mountain.

“Those things are key to a good team mentality and I can’t thank the ECB enough, especially Ross and his assistant John Cook who have had a huge influence on the team and are really inspirational.

“When you’re out on the field against the best sides and they’re hitting boundary after boundary it can been easy to get your head down but Ross makes sure we never give up and he’s really brought the team together.”

n The England Blind team’s next tournament will be in May 2015, taking on defending champions India in England. If you would like more information about Blind Cricket or to find your nearest club please contact www.bcew.co.uk