SPORT IN SHORT

CRICKET Keaton Jennings accepts Test cricket can be ‘a brutal world’ but is eager to prove it is one he can thrive in.

The Lancashire batsman (right) is set to open alongside newcomer Rory Burns when England’s threematch series against Sri Lanka gets under way in Galle on Tuesday.

All eyes will be on the 26-year-old after a lean summer, during which he averaged just 19.20 in 10 innings, and he is under no illusions about the scrutiny he is in for.

Yesterday he soaked up 95 deliveries and compiled a hard-earned 45 in their final warm-up match.

“I don’t think your place is ever not under discussion,” said Jennings. “That’s the brutal world of Test cricket, but I’m honoured to be here and it’s a huge privilege.”

RL Relegated Widnes have appointed former Leigh boss Kieron Purtill as their new head coach.

Purtill, 41, who was assistant coach of St Helens and Huddersfield before taking charge of his hometown club Leigh earlier this year, succeeds Francis Cummins at the Halton Stadium.

MOTORSPORT Wigan racer Tony Lynch brought the curtain down on his Autosport International BTRDA Clubmans Rallycross Championship in partnership with Toyo Tires campaign with another maximum score at Croft.

Westhoughton-based Tony made the trip to north Yorkshire having provisionally secured the Supermodified class title at the wheel of his Lucas Oil Team Geriatric-run Ford KA, and with his eyes on the overall title.

Tony crossed the line in second spot which confirmed him as Supermodified champion on his return to the BTRDA scene, whilst he also secured second in the overall standings.