It has been a difficult task as so many good players have applied for the privilege of representing England. After much deliberation, it is my pleasure to present the England Team for the forthcoming World Amateur Poker Championships.
Shirley Cole (Captain)
Shirley played competitive football for many years at a high level. The clubs that she played for included Tottenham Hotspur, Ipswich and Chelmsford Ladies. Two serious knee injuries brought a successful football career to an early close and this was when she found poker. She immediately fell in love with the game and started off by playing in her local casinos. This then led to trips to Las Vegas and she became an avid student of the game. She loves playing in the APAT events and this was cemented when she won the English Amateur Poker Championship in 2014. She has enjoyed some deep runs in recent events and she was overjoyed when she was selected as captain of England.
Paresh Doshi
Paresh is a prolific Pot Limit Omaha player. In 2014, he played in the WCOAP events and won the PLO Championship. The following year, he played in the PLO championship 8 handed event and he went on to win this. He will be returning to defend his title again this year. He has had a string of other good results in PLO events and this has led to his selection for the England Team.
Matt Carter
Matt is a regular on the Apat circuit. He recently played in the Team Event at Luton and was the captain of his team. He finished a very credible 7th place in the NLHE event and this led his team to achieve third place and take home the bronze medal. Matt is exceptional in achieving good results within team events. He has achieved one gold medal and two bronze medals within team events and within each victory, he has played a major part. He loves playing in STT"s and I believe that he will play a major part in helping England achieve success at the WCOAP.
Brian Yates
Brian is a formidable poker player and has had a great season. He is currently top of the Apat rankings and recently won the team event at Luton. He beat a field of 240 runners at NLHE to take home the gold medal and this played a major part in his team achieving second place. He is also an exceptional PLO player and has enjoyed achieving success in Single Table Tournaments. This was an easy selection for me.
