Top two in the world: Jo Edwards of New Zealand and Guernsey’s Alison Merrien with the World Cup trophy before they played their final in Australia last month. (1126589)

BATTLING bowler Ali Merrien has climbed another place in the World Bowls Limited ranking list and is currently in second behind New Zealand’s Jo Edwards, who beat the super Sarnian last month in the final of the World Cup in Australia.

Merrien was in third place, behind another Kiwi, reigning world champion Val Smith, but getting to the World Cup final in Warilla was enough to give her 1,025 points and lift her above Smith in the official rankings.

However, Edwards cemented her number one position by winning the title for the third year in succession, and increasing her haul to 1,350.

Unfortunately, Merrien’s triumph in the World Bowls Tour world indoor singles championship at Potters Leisure Resort in January does not carry any points, because it was achieved under a rival organisation.

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