A teenager who was never expected to walk or talk is playing in a national cricket team after receiving life-changing treatment.

Elliot Brown, 17, from Steyning, was diagnosed with cerebral palsy after he was born prematurely at 27 weeks, affecting his movement and co-ordination.

His parents Miranda and Mike Brown were told he would never be able to walk, talk or attend mainstream education.

But after several years of treatment at Evelina London Children’s Hospital to improve his physical strength and bladder problems, Elliot was able to play sport before progressing to the Sussex Cricket Club disability team and the England PD (physical disability) Lion’s cricket team.

Elliot, who is currently preparing for his A-levels and would like to study sports law at university, said: “I first started playing cricket at school. I didn’t really take it seriously at first but my love for the game grew the more I played.

“Being able to play for my country has been an amazing experience and a real honour. My dream is to make the England Lions squad for the 2019 Cricket World Cup, which will be extra special as it will be held in England and Wales.

“I don’t let my disability get in the way of pursuing my dreams and living my life to the full.

“Evelina London is an amazing place and I feel very grateful for the care I’ve received.”

As part of his treatment at the hospital in Lambeth, Elliot had botox injected into his legs when he was five, which greatly helped his mobility and strength.

But as he continued to improve, he developed severe bladder problems, which is a complication of cerebral palsy.

He underwent an eight-hour operation at Evelina London, which was a great success.

Miranda said: “Elliot has always been a massive sports fan, but before his surgery it wasn’t really possible for him to physically get involved.

“If it wasn’t for the fantastic care he has received at Evelina he wouldn’t have been able to pursue his interest in cricket.

“Elliot has gone from strength to strength under the hospital’s care. We are so thankful to everyone there who has supported him.

“It’s been amazing watching Elliot playing cricket and representing his country. His progression from playing county cricket to playing for England’s Lions has happened really quickly and is a testament to his immense talents and determination. I’m extremely proud of him.”