JERSEY badminton stars Elizabeth Cann and Mariana Agathangelou hope to dominate this weekend’s English National Championships in Manchester.

Those two are spearheading the campaign for a five-strong Jersey contingent, though former national champion Mark Constable again cannot be ruled out of challenging for the men’s singles title. Reigning champion Cann is keen to clinch her fourth national title, while Agathangelou has her sights set on women’s and mixed doubles finals.

Cann is again favourite to win the women’s singles, and opens her tournament at the second round – though she could face a tough test if she comes up against Hertfordshire’s England international Rachel Howard. Her resolve could also be tried by tournament second-seed Jill Pittard, who is eager to claim her first national title.

Cann said: ‘It is a high standard of competition, and if Jill and I both reach the final it will be a tough match. There are also a few up-and-comers who are playing quite well at the moment, so I will be really happy to retain the title – obviously I want to remain national champion for as long as possible.’

• Picture: Mark Constable will challenge for the men’s singles title