BOWLING talent Zoe Eagles is looking to the future after cementing her status as one of England's top young players.

The 15-year-old has been selected as a stand-by reserve in the England Under-25 team after impressing during national indoor trials.

Although she won't be playing in the forthcoming game against Scotland, Zoe will get to turn out in an England practice match and, given it was her first appearance at national trials, the Millthorpe School pupil is hopeful she will be able to build on this year's success and gain a place in the full squad next year.

"I was really surprised," Zoe said. "Usually when you go to trials for the first time it is about the people getting to know you and, in your first year, they don't really know you.

"I am very optimistic about next time. There are three girls in the squad who are 24 and next year they won't be able to play."

Zoe, who took up bowls four years ago, plays for York and District Indoor Bowls Club, while also turning out outdoors for York Railway Institute. She was first introduced to the sport by her dad Geoff, who plays for York RI Corinthians, and she is now a key player in both the junior and senior sections at RI.

In August, along with boyfriend Scott Burrell, she became the youngest player ever to win an English Bowls Association mixed pairs area title after the duo emerged triumphant in the Yorkshire and Lancashire Championships.

She said: "I prefer indoor bowling and have only been playing outdoors for three years. Everyone else is really pleased for me and my aim is to be playing for England U25s next year."