MEL CLEWLOW is the only Canterbury hockey player named in England’s squad for the Samsumg Women’s World Cup in Spain.

The 30-year-old defender is part of an 18-strong party chosen by coach Danny Kerry for the event which runs from September 27 to October 8.

But there is no place pace for Canterbury foward Cathy Gilliat-Smith, or keeper Becky Duggan, who has been pipped for selection by Chelmsford’s Katy Roberts and Beth Storry (SCHC).

With 209 internationals under her belt Clewlow is the most capped player in the squad, and has been one of England’s most consistent performers over the past 18 months.

She is also in good goalscoring form from corners, scoring three times to take her international tally to 40 during the recent Tests against Japan and Germany.

The Canterbury captain was on target twice as England overturned a 2-1 half time deficit to beat Japan 4-2 at East Grinstead, and she also found the net in a 1-1 draw against Germany at Cannock.

England beat Germany 2-1 in their other meeting at Cannock, with first senior goals from Leicester’s Kerry Williams and Doncaster’s Jo Ellis, both of whom have forced their way into the World Cup squad.

Olympic champions Germany are among England’s opponents in Madrid where their group also includes tournament favourites and World No 1 Holland, hosts Spain, in form China and Commonwealth Games silver medallists India.