The SMPT comes back to Chelmsford’s Falcon Bowling and Social Club for their self-styled SMPT World Cup on Friday 28th August and the UK Open on Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August. On Friday night England will be defending their title and are seeded number 1 while Belgium are seeded 2 and Ireland seeded 3. On Saturday Gary McNabb of Ireland, ranked 2 in SMPT World Rankings, will be defending his UK Open title and hoping to lift it for the third time. He has been drawn in Group 28 which also includes Chris Page. Group 13 will provide some interesting matches with 2018 champion Alex Kley, Glenn Harvey & two time champion Alastair McCrea all in the mix. SMPT World ranked number one Craig Burgess is drawn in Group 7 that also includes Welsh bowler Arwel Morgan. Two Norfolk bowlers have entered the competition. Expendables star and England boss Chris Willies will fancy his chances in Group 32 where Pieterjan Stevens is likely to provide his biggest threat. The inexperienced but naturally talented Craig Quantock of Horsford BC will play in Group 21 where Andrew Shorney & Jonas Hager will start as favourites to fill the two qualifying spots. Simon Pridham, the former England star who now represents Cyprus, will start as favourite to win Group 9. He will no doubt be eager to earn himself a late birthday present by winning the event after celebrating his 50th birthday this week.
Chris Willies seen in action for Watton Expendables
City League bowler Craig Quantock of Horsford BC