The Cricketer Schools Guide 2023

The big thing for me is it’s always a challenge. It keeps you honest and you have to pay attention the whole time. It makes you watch the ball so closely. That’s your paramount to start with, then that allows you to make good decisions. It’s constantly challenging and such a great training tool.

JASON BERENDORFF

They swing naturally, which is unusual for these sorts of things. Great for practice in England. Saved money on new balls and time not having to polish them up! Great thing to have in your bag no matter the level you play at. Fantastic in the Sidearm which is the perfect partner. Give it a go.

“Incredible training tool. So much better than a normal cricket ball that hasn’t been shined. Can’t speak highly enough of these. Teaches you to really watch the ball and pick up the swing in the air”

“I don’t normally rave about products but this is fantastic. If you are a coach or player and want to improve against the swinging ball, you’re missing out if you’re not using it. I couldn’t be happier with it.”

ADAM HOLLIOAKE

Sometimes in the nets you get into a bit of a rhythm when the ball isn’t moving. With this it keeps you on your toes, I had a lot of fun and think everyone is going to have a lot of fun with it.

“What a great product. It’s Incredible because you learn to play the swinging ball and learn to really watch the ball. Honestly I was blown away. As a coach and past player this is a great tool and I recommend to anyone.”

JUSTIN LANGER

Ex-Australian opener and current head coach

Ex-Surrey & England captain, Queensland Bulls batting coach

Australia, WA, Chennai Super Kings, Perth Scorchers

CAMERON GREEN Australia, WA & Perth Scorchers

DAVID WILLEY Yorkshire & England

MEGAN BANTING Western Australia & Perth Scorchers

STAFF

Editor Huw Turbervill

Commercial director Jim Hindson

Director Chris Smith

Digital editor Sam Morshead

Deputy editor James Coyne

Art director Geo Barton

Proofreader Richard Hobson

Social media editor Owen Riley

Marketing manager Adam Marshall Business development manager David Jeacock

Subscriptions executive Gemma Lang

Sta reporter Nick Friend

Sta reporter Nick Howson

Sta reporter Elizabeth Botcherby

Inclusion in the guide: Every year we invite schools across the country to submit their entries. Having collated the entries the judging panel scrutinises the schools against a number of criteria including facilities, fixture programmes and coaching set-up to determine which should be included in the top 100 senior schools, top 20 all-girls schools and top 50 prep and junior schools. We can, of course, only include the schools who submit an entry – so if you believe your school is worthy of consideration please do make sure you submit via www.thecricketer.com/schoolsguide or by emailing us at magazine@thecricketer.com

Welcome to The Cricketer Schools Guide 2023

“It will be alright, it’s clearing up later…”

It was 11am, and my English teacher could read my mind. He was not annoyed that I was staring out of the window, that my thoughts had drifted from The Mayor of Casterbridge. He loved cricket as much as I did. He was umpiring my game, starting at 2pm. It was hammering down. But he was right. We played.

Cricket at school – such happy days. I retain such vivid memories.

Cock-a-hoop at scoring 37 – my previous best had been 15 – but then brought down to earth by a rollocking from our teacher, who’d bowled slow-lefties for Northants, for wearing grey socks.

Picking the ball up for the fielder and being run out (I never did it again!)… only to be recalled by their skipper, and batting to save the game.

Dropped first ball of the innings at long-off (must have had a surge of Testosterone that day as it was quite unlike me – No ‘Bazball’ back then).

A teacher aghast when I missed her A-Level lesson to play cricket (just try stopping me!)

Even 30 years ago, it was clear that pupils were starting to put studies before sport. Lads would play the first half of the season, then go on strike when exams loomed, to the fury

of the cricket coaches.

I still maintain that sport is great for students, though. It relaxes. It focuses.

You play Saturday, then knuckle down Sunday… rather than having your books spread out all weekend, only to dawdle.

I know cricket has opened doors for me. At university. In the workplace. Some friendships made through the game at school endure to this day.

There are some astonishing stories in The Cricketer’s Schools Guide 2023.

We went on tours to Jersey and London. Some now go to Dubai and South Africa. Incredible. The list of facilities takes your breath away.

Yet heart-warming tales pierce through of state schools playing the game against the odds.

And the rise of girls’ cricket – how awesome is that?

“Cricket has replaced rounders as the main summer sport for our girls.”

Words to warm the heart!

Take Mim Aldred, an allrounder in the boys’ 1st XI at Dragon School in Oxford.

“On tour she hit an unbeaten 50, then came back to bowl a triple-wicket maiden in the last over with the opposition requiring two to win.”

Tomorrow’s heroes today.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

HUW TURBERVILL Editor @huwzat

Supporters of The Cricketer Schools Guide

Durant Cricket is a leading supplier of cricket ground equipment to clubs, professional counties and schools across the country. We have supported The Cricketer’s sterling coverage of school’s cricket, which showcases the fantastic job coaches and sta are

doing for grassroots cricket, for many years. Long may it continue. Enjoy the winter, and best of luck for the 2023 season.

Cristian Durant, Managing director, Durant Cricket

On the cover: Bede’s School (main pic), Haberdashers’ Boys’ School (bottom left) and Brighton College (bottom middle), all by Aaron Parsons; Repton School (bottom right) by Paul Carroll. Additional pictures throughout the guide: Getty Images

Game on as schools enjoy bumper summer of cricket

been practising for situations just like this for the last few months.

Schools cricket has certainly been in the news with the ongoing debate over the annual Eton v Harrow fixture at Lord’s commanding headlines. A consultation process with members was announced in September with a view to considering the future of the two fixtures at the 2023 AGM.

Back in April, MCC again found themselves in the spotlight, featuring in The Cricketer’s first ‘match of the month’ when the club took on Stowe School on a chilly but bright spring day. Former Glamorgan and Northants batter James Kettleborough came to MCC’s rescue

when they were left reeling at 87 for 4, with Stowe opening bowlers Will Pickard and Harvey Julyan doing the damage with the new ball.

Kettleborough came in at No.4 and used all of his experience to soak up the Stowe momentum and then put the students under pressure, compiling an entertaining innings of 69, which included a partnership of 92 for the fifth wicket with Ollie Tice who made 38. The club eventually declared on 253 for 6 from 50 overs and although the Stowe chase fell away, Stowe coach and former Surrey gloveman James Knott relished the challenge. He explained that the boys had

“We’ve had a full winter’s preparation, which is where we get the majority of the technical work done. This was followed by a ‘proper’ pre-season and a full fixture list this year. It’s much better compared to last year when we were under Covid restrictions, and some schools even just played other schools in a bubble around them. It’s back to normal to be honest.”

This was a timed game and Knott revealed that the boys enjoyed this nuanced format: “We get to post two or three slips and a gully which you wouldn’t normally see in limited-overs cricket, where our focus would be dot balls and building pressure. Our chat today was to get four or five down for lunch and then to bowl MCC out. We executed the first part of our plan at least [MCC were four down at lunch] and even though the chase started badly and we hadn’t got a realistic chance of winning the game, we could still battle it out for a draw in this format.”

This summer saw the inaugural Under-13 Girls' Cricket Championship, held at Marlborough College and described by England opening batter Tammy Beaumont as ‘amazing.’

Beaumont took advantage of some rare downtime from international duties to watch this tournament which featured 16 eight-a-side teams played in four groups, followed by semi-finals and a final.

Beaumont was full of praise for the tournament and told The Cricketer. "I turned up and the first thing I saw was a girl smash a six out of the ground.

I thought back to my school days and there wasn't even a girls' team. So to see 16 teams playing in full, loving the game, to a really high standard, I just think it's amazing."

Beaumont gave the prize for best batter to Katharine Collie, from Crosfields, with Georgia Toosey from Daneshill named best bowler. The

ABOVE James Knott and the match between Stowe School and MCC

rising star award went to Nishka Gavanka from Crosfields with her school also crowned as winners of the competition.

The relationship between pupils and coaches doesn’t necessarily end when pupils leave as The Cricketer discovered in an interview with former Hampshire left arm spinner Raj Maru. The head of cricket at Lancing College took a call from former pupil Mason Crane during the season.

Maru actually began at Lancing on the same day that Mason Crane joined the school as a student. The pair have maintained their relationship ever since and when the Hampshire legspinner got in touch on the back of a mediocre start to his campaign that included a loan spell at Sussex, Maru was happy to talk.

"He didn't have the greatest start to the season, but give him credit: he rang up and asked if I had any spare time," says Maru. "He told me he was struggling a little bit, so we cleared it with Hampshire and worked together."

Crane’s output improved o the back of working with Maru, which included technical work on an issue with his front arm brought on by the positioning of his front foot. He explains: "We got him to bowl from six inches wider, to drop the arm by six inches and to start using the front arm properly. Suddenly, things started to fall back into place. "You have to be brave and have some sort of guts to ask for help. For him to do that shows maturity and a lot of courage. It's not easy doing that."

Elsewhere, it was independent versus

state school in the T20 fixture between Haberdashers’ Boys’ School and Watford Grammar. Watford Grammar’s head of physical education James Dyson explained that this was a fixture that his boys were looking forward to: “There’s a really good rivalry between us and Habs’ with matches between us competitive and of a high standard. A lot of the boys know each other from local club cricket and prep schools so the games are played in a good spirit with bragging rights very much the order of the day.

“What we can o er as a state school is to provide the opportunity for A–D block fixtures in midweek and Habs are one of the more forward-thinking schools who accommodate us. Other independents will tend to go for more traditional larger blocks of fixtures at the weekend against the more prestigious schools but due to our sta ng model at Watford we just can’t o er this.”

In the match, Habs won the toss and elected to bat under a baking June sun on a wicket that had enough grass to still showcase a green tinge. They were soon in trouble, being reduced to 68 for 4 in the eighth over with Niyam Shah and Ashish Padki tasked with rebuilding the innings. Krishan Patel bowled tidily, taking 2 for 15 from his first three overs, which were completed exclusively in the Powerplay.

Shah and Padki warmed to their task, taking Habs to a solid base of 122 for 4 from 16 overs before throwing caution to the wind and taking it to

ABOVE Tammy Beaumont at the Under-13 Girls’ Cricket Championship, held at Marlborough College

the Watford bowlers. The final four overs produced 56 runs, with both players remaining unbeaten in a competitive total of 172 for 4 from their 20 overs.

Padki made a brisk 42 not out from 32 balls but it was Shah who stole the show, making 102 not out from 58 deliveries, including fourteen fours and one six.

Shah will be First XI captain next year and this innings showed leadership qualities in abundance.

Watford Grammar began their reply in fine fettle, with openers Ben Beasley and Nikhil Nair, who had earlier bowled four tidy overs of legspin for 1 for 25, quickly picking up the pace of the pitch. The opening partnership was worth 59 before Nair departed and after eight overs the visitors were 68 for 1, still favourites to win the match. The pace of Felix Hart and o spin of Sid Kheria applied the brakes and breakthroughs to the Watford innings, Hart bowling three overs for six runs and Kheria taking 3 for 26.

The Watford innings fell away with a young middle-order unable to sustain the run chase and Habs ultimately took the spoils in a 56-run victory.

Dyson was still upbeat about the performance from his inexperienced team and explained how the pandemic has a ected selection.

“We had a very young middle-order due to player availability. We’ve had a couple of years without exams due to Covid – but with exams

BELOW Mason Crane appearing for London Spirit in The Hundred

back, it appears that players are finding it a challenge to balance playing and the understandable stress of exams and are sacrificing matches to study. Pupils have always been under pressure at this time of the year but post-covid it seems like this is now greater than ever. On the flipside, this has been the best summer for the U15s with no exams to speak of and plenty of opportunities to play up in the senior teams.”

Dyson concluded: “Despite the exams being on, cricket is very popular at the school. Put it this way – I get far more emails from boys who are disappointed to miss out on selection compared to players dropping out. And that’s the way it should be.”

Cricket is now thriving at Guildford High School following the sport’s welcome addition to the curriculum in 2019. The all-girls school now boasts over 25 cricket teams, providing a constant supply of talent for local clubs, and attracts over half of the pupils to extra-curricular sessions.

And in June of this year, they took their programme one step further by embarking on the school’s first ever cricket tour: a long weekend in Brighton for 24 pupils. The girls played an Under-

13s and an Under-15s match against Hurstpierpoint College, took in a T20 Blast game at Hove and also found time for an internal match and an impromptu game of beach cricket before heading back to school.

Ben Collins runs cricket at the school and he explained: "It was all selectionbased, so it gave the students an incentive to work hard. They had four weeks up to the tour to perform well in lessons and fixtures, be keen and improve. All of them wanted to be on the tour.

"The standard of cricket across the trip was really high – we'll definitely look to run that fixture [against Hurstpierpoint] again. And the internal game, it was great to see the Under-15s mixing with the Under-13s. It was nice for team bonding and seeing the older girls saying, 'Wow, you’re really good!' to the younger ones."

Finally to Framlingham College, where head of cricket Jack Beaumont has overseen senior girls’ selection into the boys' 1st XI. Beaumont admits one of his top priorities remains breaking down the barriers between boys' and girls' cricket through mixed training and teams – both in school fixtures and the Albert XI, a mixed year-group team who play long-format games against touring

representative sides.

"It stretches the girls in a di erent way to girls' cricket because the way the game is played is di erent," Beaumont says. "You talk to the current England players and one of the things that helped them was playing boys’ cricket and adult men's cricket. The skill level is very close, it’s actually the power and speed that makes the di erence.

"They have to be quite a strong character to dominate a boys' game. Often in the first few games, they're quite timid, reserved, and shy but the more they play, the more they get involved. It's just a game of cricket with people they see around school and chat to like normal people – boys' cricket gets put on a pedestal.

"It's nice to see other girls who aren't in the boys' team going, 'Hollie hasn’t played with them has she? She got three wickets? That's amazing!'. It boosts Hollie up and the other girls start to think it might be achievable. The best girls can certainly compete with the best boys.

"For the boys, it's nice for them to mix because they've started to realise that the girls are pretty good. They're not embarrassed to get out [to the girls] anymore."

ABOVE The match between Haberdashers’ Boys’ School and Watford Grammar

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Canterbury reign in Spain

Kent is the garden of England but a school team from there triumphed in surroundings that could not have been more di erent. Canterbury Academy were the inaugural winners of The Cricketer Schools 100 tournament in Andalucía, Spain, edging out Scarborough College, Winchester College and Radley College.

The battle ground for the 100-ball competition was Desert Springs Resort, boasting an international-size grass pitch – constructed to ECB standards and specifications. Nestling amid a backdrop of mountains, palm trees and cacti, it was certainly a setting with a di erence.

Canterbury fell to defeat against Scarborough but wins over Winchester and Radley were enough to see the Kent

school sitting at the top of the table at the conclusion of the group stage thanks to their superior net-run rate.

With the semi-finals tantalisingly poised, Spanish skies unleashed rain for two straight days to force an early end to proceedings.

Canterbury opened the tournament with a 14-run victory over Winchester thanks to a fine all-round performance from captain Harry Fulton.

Fulton played a steady hand with the bat with an unbeaten 27 from No.6 before taking 2 for 6 with the ball.

Alexa Stonehouse – who was in Trent Rockets’ squad in The Hundred this summer – impressed opening the batting. The allrounder was aggressive from the o , looking strong down the ground, striking two fours in a run-a-ball 17.

Wilf La Fontaine Jackson was the star man with the bat for Winchester, falling two runs short of the competition’s first half-century. He displayed impressive power, hitting three fours and two sixes.

With the ball, Winchester’s Paddy Fisher was particularly miserly, finishing with figures of 2 for 10 from his 20 deliveries.

In Saturday’s second fixture a superb knock by Scarborough captain Duncan Brown set up a 31-run victory over Radley.

The skipper played fluently from the o , smashing nine fours and five sixes in a stunning 44-ball 82.

On Brown, Scarborough coach Piet Rinke said: “He’s a star in the making, that showed in his innings on a di cult deck. He’s a matchwinner.”

Alfie Wood struck twice in four balls to have Radley on the back foot at 22 for 2.

Rory Acheson-Gray and George O’Connor provided a spirited fightback in a partnership of 71 before Wood returned to pick up his third wicket of the innings, bowling O’Connor for 39.

Ferdinand Spicer became the fourth and final Radley wicket, falling to Romario Brathwaite – who has recently been

OPPOSITE Winners Canterbury Academy (top); Trent Rocketsbound Alexa Stonehouse (bottom)

BELOW Scarborough College v Canterbury Academy against the Desert Springs backdrop

HENRY MATYSEK

Comprehensive school triumph in the inaugural The Cricketer Schools 100 tournament, played during the Easter holiday in Andalucía, writes Owen Riley

selected for the Caribbean Premier League draft.

Scarborough were straight back into the action in day one’s final game, chasing down 100 with 10 balls to spare against Canterbury to make it back-to-back wins.

Opener Cian Dickinson – who marshalled the chase with an unbeaten 44 – was supported by his captain, Brown (25 o 20), and Lewis Porter (19 not out) as Scarborough negotiated what could have been a tricky chase against a Canterbury team who defended 101 in their opening match.

Tom Easterby claimed 2 for 5 with both wickets coming via stumpings by skipper Brown. That brace completed a hat-trick of stumpings for Brown who had earlier seen the back of Christian Roberts as the batsman looked to come down the track to Wood.

Day two opened with a fluent halfcentury from opener Harry Roberts leading Canterbury to their highest total of the tournament. Roberts’ innings was well-paced, reaching a run-a-ball 35 before accelerating from 35 to his half-century in just four balls. From there the bowlers put in a highly disciplined display which saw Radley fall well short of their target.

Spinner Jayden Denly picked up two early wickets – Emile Haratbar showing some rapid glovework to stump Rollo Harrap, before having George Reynolds caught by Ben Burgess at slip – to see Radley reduced to 16 for 2.

Two balls later Radley were three down and spin continued to do the damage as George O’Connor fell to Josh Julian – Burgess pouching another.

Joe Coleman had Spicer caught behind before Denly returned to remove Radley’s top-scorer Frederick Judd (20), assisted once again by another sharp stumping

from Haratbar.

Winchester put in an excellent allround performance to earn their first victory of the tournament and inflict a first defeat on Scarborough.

La Fontaine Jackson – who hit 48 against Canterbury on Saturday – struck a 32-ball 40 which was constructed with a pleasing blend of textbook form and all-out aggression. The opener put on 70 with Chris Batten (26) for the first wicket to give their side a perfect platform.

Winchester showed great control with the ball to stifle the chase early on with Fisher impressing again, conceding just one run from his opening 15 deliveries.

Fisher would finish with fine figures of 1 for 8, which would have been 1 for 2 had it not been for Romario Roach launching his penultimate ball for an enormous six down on one knee over long o .

Roach unfurled another massive legside six as he threatened to resurrect Scarborough’s innings.

Enter Zach Roberts. On a day which had seen spin inflicting a lot of the damage, seamer Roberts had Roach caught behind and removed Dickinson for 1 in the space of five balls.

Brathwaite was the third and final man to fall to Roberts – who finished with 3 for 7 – as Scarborough’s chase stuttered to 93 for 8.

Winchester made it back-to-back wins, chasing down 104 with five balls to spare against Radley.

Radley’s 103 for 4 set up an exciting chase with Winchester needing to knock it o in 90 deliveries to leapfrog Scarborough into second place in the league table on net run-rate.

Winchester’s Fisher continued his fruitful tournament - taking 3 for 15 to put the opposition on the back foot at 17 for 3.

Jack Cotterell anchored Radley’s innings with an unbeaten 33 and captain Rollo Harrap played nicely for his 31.

With run-rate pressure on, Zain Malik (26) and

SCORES

Match 1: Canterbury Academy 101 for 8, beat Winchester College 87 for 7 by 14 runs

Match 2: Scarborough College 133 for 4, beat Radley College 102 for 4 by 31 runs

Match 3: Scarborough College 100 for 2, beat Canterbury Academy 99 for 6 by 8 wkts

Match 4: Canterbury Academy 115 for 3, beat Radley College 58 for 5 by 57 runs

Match 5: Winchester College 108 for 5, beat Scarborough College 93 for 8 by 15 runs

Match 6: Winchester College 105 for 7, beat Radley College 103 for 4 by 3 wkts

Henry Nicholls (11) put Winchester on their way.

Nicholls was caught behind o Edward Horsfield and in-form batsman La Fontaine Jackson fell cheaply for the first time in the tournament before George Gardiner (5) and Malik fell in quick succession as the chase faltered.

It fell to Batten and Seb Morgan – who played one exquisite reverse sweep for four – to get the chase back on track. Together the pair added 44 to the total and managed to get the net run-rate equation down to five o five before Batten edged through to Acheson-Gray.

Five o five became four o two but although they won, their run-rate was ultimately not as good as Canterbury’s.

In a speech made to the four teams, Canterbury’s Fin Myers referred to the rain: “This is not the way we would have liked to have won.

“Being the only comprehensive school, we understood we had an underdog role to play,” Myers continued. “We have thoroughly enjoyed it and are incredibly grateful to have been given the opportunity.”

Canterbury head coach and former Kent captain Dave Fulton added: “The standard of play, and talent on show has been fantastic.

“Our squad have a never-say-dieattitude and unbelievable team spirit. To mix it with traditional, established cricketing schools has been a privilege and it’s wonderful to see our team develop. It has been a top-class trip and a dream come true for our guys.”

Scarborough’s Rinke echoed Fulton’s words, saying: “It was a fabulous tournament, we are very honoured and privileged to be involved. The boys loved it. The camaraderie and general focus of improving cricket has been the highlight for me.”

Equipped for success

Jim Hindson caught up with former team-mate Cristian Durant, enjoying a road trip that reflected on the hard work that goes into cricket grounds throughout the year

Aday spent with Cristian Durant leaves you in little doubt that he is an expert in his field. It is not just the technical knowledge he has as owner of Durant Cricket – a leading cricket ground equipment supplier. Cricket is in the blood when you consider his near five decades of watching, playing and administrating the game from the village green to county 2nd XI and minor counties (Cristian was quite a player). And as a cricket person, he is great company.

The groundsmen we catch up with – in this instance at Oakham, Uppingham and Oundle schools – are all on hand to greet him with a brew and time for a chat. It’s not just about the first-class service, it’s having a yarn with someone who shares the passion for the game.

“We know so many groundsmen personally,” Cristian explained. “We go the extra mile for them, which is why we get the repeat business and why they want to deal with us. It means we listen to their needs and work to provide them exactly what they want, rather than just an o -the-shelf service.”

One of the reasons for this versatility is that Durant Cricket design, manufacture and install in-house. This sets them apart from other suppliers, something that is not lost on key decision-makers at clubs and schools across the country.

Cristian picks up the story: “The metalwork and all of the scoreboards are built and fabricated at our HQ and loaded into our vans before being installed onsite. Our o ce is onsite so you get to speak to the people who will

be hands on with your project involved in the sales process. And we provide a comprehensive all-round service for ground equipment that includes all accessories including boundary ropes, flags, discs and clocks.

“Overseeing the manufacturing process from start to finish enables us to control quality and to tweak designs to come up with products that the market wants. Being a one-stop shop, if a club wants a boundary rope, some covers and a cage –we can provide that under one roof rather than having to make three separate sales. We run the whole process which sees clubs and schools coming back to us year after year.”

At Oundle School, Durant Cricket have delivered 4½ x 4-metre-wide sight screens with heavy-duty durable frames. The white lattes can be replaced with black for a white-ball game. This fully galvanised frame is popular with clubs and schools around the UK and is winter proof to boot. You can also remove the lattes and drop the sight screen down on its hinges to protect against high winds.

At Oakham School, Durant have supplied three mobile cricket covers with puncture-proof tyres. Cristian reckons they have delivered more than 700 sets of this popular cover across the UK. They are easy to move and do a great job of getting the game on in inclement weather with a side sheet attachment to connect flat sheets.

Our final stop was at Uppingham School where Durant Cricket have

installed two mobile cages. These are 10 metres long with an extra section to stop the ball being driven into the path of players in the next net. Puncture-proof tyres and heavy-duty 3mm netting make this a robust cage for all conditions. The nets can be moved onto the square for middle practice, with the stabilising bar making them easy to move even for someone working on their own.

As our busy morning in the Midlands came to a close, we headed back to Durant Cricket headquarters, located just o the A1 between Peterborough and Leicester. Over another brew, Cristian signed o by looking to the future. “We’ve moved to this fantastic location, just o the A1 in the middle of England. Our vision is to continue to provide excellent customer service, to develop new products and to make the manufacturing process even more e cient. We want to be the go-to brand for all cricket ground equipment and to expand our operation across the UK and abroad too.

Walking out to the car park, a trailer was being loaded for a trip to Finland in another busy month that has seen Durant travelling all over the UK and to further climes. But as Cristian reflected, it’s not really work when you are so passionate about the job and our summer game.

Zings – the flashing wickets of world cricket

Zing International, manufacturers of the flashing Zing Wicket System, have created an accessible range for clubs and schools. David Jeacock finds out more

Zings flashing stumps and bails have been around for a decade and are now used throughout professional cricket the world over.

The original product, the TV Zings, was created specifically for television. A microprocessor in each Zing bail detects when it becomes dislodged from the stump grooves, illuminating within 1/1000th of a second. This pioneering technology provided absolute clarity for umpires making pivotal high-pressure decisions on run outs and stumpings in the white-hot cauldron of professional sport. The impact was immediate, with the Zings quickly becoming a firm favorite with cricket o cials around the world.

The popularity and e ectiveness of Zings allowed the company to create alternate ranges, with ‘Club Zing’ designed specifically for the purpose of schools and clubs.

The Cricketer spoke with Zing’s commercial manager, Luke McAlister, who picks up the story. “Our initial purpose was to help umpires make the correct decisions. We have found in our testing that umpire error-rates with the Club Zings are halved when stood at square-leg as you cannot miss that flash of light as soon as the bails are removed.

“As opposed to the TV review process which moves frame-by-frame and the umpire has to attempt to identify the precise moment the bails dislodge between frames, the Zing wickets light up instantly making it much easier to identify that precise moment. Take the New Zealand v Pakistan Test series last year, where Kane Williamson looked to have been run out but was given not out by the TV umpire. This was a key moment in the game and the decision-making process was lengthy and uncertain. If Zing equipment had been used, it would have provided instantaneous clarity for the TV umpire, allowing the game to have quickly carried on without delay and with

the correct decision having been reached.” Zing have adapted their product, making them more robust and now provide options for both grass and artificial surfaces with spiked stumps and rubber bases respectively. A full Zing kit is now available at an accessible pricepoint for grassroots cricket as McAlister explains: “More and more clubs and schools (both Junior & Senior) are picking them up and are finding that the product creates a real buzz and spectacle for the spectators and everyone else.

The flashing lights emit 1,700 lumens per end, compared to a standard torch which emits just 100, and bring spectators right into the action.

“The attention our product generates also creates sponsorship opportunities with companies wanting their brand to appear on the stumps. This can o set the cost and even create a profit for the schools/clubs we work with. They also it make much easier to get key decisions right and e ectively provide assistance to selfumpiring, which is vital at grassroots level.”

Innovation key to The Cricket Store success

Having played cricket his entire life The Cricket Store founder, James Bryan, first conceived of his new online concept when reflecting on the progress and innovation of bat-making versus cricket retail and how the latter had been left behind.

The Cricket Store is now revolutionising cricket retail with a new way manufacturers and cricketers interact, creating a streamlined, bespoke system and sales process ensuring players are being provided a tailored service and product at the best possible price.

The Cricket Store’s technology platform and innovative business model o ers more options for cricketers, convenient deliveries, a better deal for manufacturers and even a kick-back scheme so you can make money for your school or club. They are currently the only retailer o ering a kickback scheme for schools and clubs which is a welcome bonus. “We are launching as a business and want to do the right thing by schools or clubs during these di cult times. This

will not be a short-term incentive but one we will o er for the long term, meaning clubs and schools can build up a pot and invest it in their future,” Bryan explained.

With more and more manufacturers coming on board, selection is vast and, via their online hub, manufacturers can upload individual bats directly to The Cricket Store allowing customers to be safe in the knowledge that they are buying that specific bat.

Bryan explained: “Purchasing a bat online can be di cult and you often don’t see photos of the exact bat you’re getting.

Most retailers are limited to a small selection of brands and the independent brands are often ignored whilst customer support can be slow.

“Cricketers and manufacturers alike love the system we have provided a platform for, providing a better experience whilst also developing trust and building assurance that they are buying the right product. Based on customer feedback, we are confident we’re building a new alternative for cricketers, which o ers a better service

ABOVE

The Cricket Store support independent bat makers, like Scott Cricket bats

RIGHT The World Class Willow Chaos as used by Will Smeed is available on The Cricket Store

LEFT World Class Willow, Head Bat Maker, Mike Kennedy with Adnan, following Freddie Flinto ’s Field of Dreams on BBC

and enables them to support their schools and clubs.

To cap it o , The Cricket Store o ers next day delivery allowing you to get your hands on your new kit quickly.

The Cricket Store’s innovative approach has been highlighted through winning investment from a sports start-up accelerator programme, just one of two start-ups to be selected, showcasing their credentials as the upstart in cricket retail.

The Cricketer spoke with founder James Bryan and discovered how he is evolving online cricket shopping for the benefit of cricketers, schools, clubs and brands

BY BRENDON MCCULLUM INTERNATIONAL CRICKET COACH

THE ULTIMATE TRAINING NET FAST TRACK BATTING SKILLS

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

— A superb batting tool that will help take your batting drills and technique to the next level.

— As batters we know we need to create muscle memory through quality repetition. By using THE V you can do just that.

— Not only a great addition for any school cricket academy but also ideal for use at home.

— A revolutionary boundary warm-up. Get in the zone before going out to bat on match day.

— THE V is compact, portable and easy to set up.

— Train all year round on any surface, inside or out.

— For more information about THE V including THE V batting drills demonstrated by Brendon McCullum visit www.thev.co.nz

ENDORSED

NV Play: The go-to live streaming service for the grassroots game

Since making their debut a decade ago, NV Play have revolutionised

streaming of games for schools and clubs across the UK

Across the UK, NV Play are leading the way in scoring, live streaming and direct scoreboard integration via ECB’s Play-Cricket Scorer Pro software (PCS Pro). Widely used across the first-class game, this trusted brand deliver the UK’s most advanced live streaming package complete with automated match graphics throughout the recreational game.

NV Play allows users to bring their own cameras or purchase from NV Play’s own curated range of camera kits - tailored for every budget and chosen specifically for cricket. Broadcast-grade live streaming and ball-by-ball video clips are automated simply by scoring the match with a connected camera. This enables the match to be viewed by parents and supporters in their living rooms, as well as enhancing team and player feedback via premium professional grade performance analysis tools.

The PCS Pro platform is widely used in the professional game by all 18 counties, as well as the England Men’s and Women’s International teams. The system also has a huge footprint in the recreational game where the natural key strokes of the everyday scorer powers the live streaming overlays, automatic in game match cards, ball clipping, online match centres and local scoreboards.

This professional seal of approval is not lost on Stowe School who have reaped the benefits of the platform.

Director of cricket, James Knott, said: “NV Play have revolutionised the way we deliver cricket at Stowe school. Parents can view the games live when unable to attend in person and it has enabled us to easily pull player stats and match highlights together.”

Head of boys’ cricket at Trent College, Scott Boswell, is also a huge fan of NV Play. He said: “The fact our scorer just needs to score as normal to power the live stream overlays is a massive positive. The pupils enjoy seeing their videos and it has helped to give our winter programme

some context as to who needs to do what to improve.”

NV Play has enabled video analysis of streamed games, a key aid for coaches in developing their young players.

Forest School head of cricket, Tomos Fowler, picked up the story: “Last season we used NV Play to stream all our 1st XI fixtures plus a successful national cup run for our U15s.

“It has changed the way we coach and analyse post-fixture. We have been able to collate data throughout the season and provide detailed analysis for our cricketers.”

NV Play’s vast experience in providing cost-e cient, high-end coverage for the professional and recreational game makes it the solution of choice for a number of governing bodies around the world. Just last season saw over 400 clubs and schools across the UK utilising NV Play’s best in class video features.

Stowe School

Trent College

Forest School

Travel with a Smile

The Cricketer speaks to Smile Group Travel about broadening horizons on and o the pitch

With more than a decade’s experience in the cricket touring business, Graeme Walker, founder of Smile Group Travel has seen it all.

He founded the business in Barbados in 2009 while working there as a coach, ground handler and tour manager.

His knowledge of the industry –particularly cricket – is second to none and is a key reason why Smile Group Travel is so popular with tour groups.

Walker picks up the story. “We work relentlessly for our clients and our focus is entirely on delivering the perfect tour.

“We work with most first-class counties and we apply the same approach to all of our tours as we do to working with the professionals.”

Alongside the overseas trips to every relevant destination across the world, Walker has also been working closer to home in creating a number of domestic tours and there are increasing opportunities for cricket tours through Europe.

Smile are also at the forefront of the increasing interest in girls cricket and one of their initiatives is The Hundred Girls Cricket Festival. This festival will provide

the opportunity for U13 and U15 girls to play cricket in a Festival atmosphere on the Isle of Wight.

Walker is excited about this new venture and the growth of female cricket in general.

“Schools are keen for their girls to play in a festival atmosphere and this newly created tournament provides just that. We also have a wonderful range of international tours which have been developed specifically for female groups.”

Walker believes Smile provide the widest range of high-class opportunities and through using their expertise ensure that the right tour is selected every time.

“Smile Group Travel have organised numerous trips for Hampshire over the years and I would have no hesitation in recommending them. Graeme works diligently behind the scenes to ensure that everything runs smoothly and his knowledge of cricket and the team demands help in building a successful tour.”

Giles White, director of cricket, Hampshire

THE HUNDRED GIRLS CRICKET FESTIVAL

Who: U13/U15 girls

Where: Isle of Wight When: April 10-14 2023

• 4 nights full-board

• 5 matches per team

• Masterclass sessions by professional coaches

• Visits and talks from world renowned cricketers

• Additional competitions for range-hitting, fastest

delivery, catching and more

• Prize-giving presentation ceremony

• Evening entertainment at hotel

• Indoor cricket school in case of bad weather

• Half-day coach trip around island with optional activities

Price: £445 per person

Girls U17 National

Sponsored

• Knockout T20 competition

• Initial rounds regionalised

• Players test themselves against the UK’s best schools

• Last four teams invited to a finals day (end of June)

• Entrants receive £500 voucher (short haul) or £1000 (long haul) to use on future tours with Smile Group Travel

• Winning team receives an additional £500 prize (short haul) or £1000 (long haul) towards cost of future tours with Smile Group Travel

Right: 2022 winners Ipswich School with former England player Roland Butcher, who made the trophy presentation

£20 DEADLINE FOR ENTRY: MONDAY 9TH JANUARY 2023 To enter this exciting competition contact Paul Davidge at eclipsecricket@yahoo.com

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

ASHFORD SCHOOL

East Hill, Ashford, Kent TN24 8PB

Established 1898

Number of pupils 476 Master in charge Ashley Cook Teams 19 - Boys 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12A; Girls 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB Girls’ cricket Ashford have 11 girls’ teams, with opportunities for all between years seven and 10. Hardball cricket is played across all age groups, however, there is a soft ball pairs entry level o ering

Fixtures As many as 130 matches were played across the season, with the match against the MCC the most vital

Facilities Three grass wickets, four indoor nets, one mobile cricket net, an Astro wicket and three Flix portable pitches Club/county a liation Kent CCC and Southern Spartans play matches using Ashford’s facilities. Partnerships are in place with Sports Club, Ashford Town CC and Boughton & Eastwell CC

Best prospects Benji Niewoudt plays age group cricket for Kent and

has scored 1,534 runs and taken 51 wickets for the school. Fifteen-yearold Maddie Richardson is also part of the Kent system and is part of the South East Stars academy

Brief history Originally opened exclusively for girls, boys were added to the school in 1997. Moved to Alfred House in East Hill in 1913 where the school remains today. Ashford School merged with Friars Prep School and was relaunched in 2005

What sets the school apart? County and area cricket is played on Ashford’s pitches on a regular basis

and cricket is o ered to pupils all year round, including one to one coaching. Additionally, there are elite invitation only sessions and cricket for all during pre-season and the summer proper Finest moment on the field In June 2022, The Under-15 Girls won ECB’s School’s Indoor Competition at Lords, a tournament that sees over 900 teams enter

Recent progress The girls programme has emerged as one of the best in the county. All Kent players have progressed from the prep school into the senior part of the school.

Under-13 girls finished as runners-up in the South East Kent Regional Finals, while the first XI reached the Kent Cup semi-finals. In the Kent hardball 8s, both Under-13 and Under-15 girls reach the final

Future plans New grass outdoor nets Tours In August 2023, an overseas sports tour to Barbados is planned. The school’s annual pre-season tour to Spain is due top be reintroduced after an a temporary suspension due to Covid-19. There is also an Under-13 junior sports tour planned to Norwich

BEDE’S SENIOR SCHOOL

Upper Dicker, Hailsham BN27 3QH

Established 1979 Number of pupils 830 Master in charge Alan Wells Teams There seven teams across years nine to 13 Girls’ cricket Teams are o ered at U14, U15 and U18 level

Fixtures Bede’s play in as many as 120 fixtures across the cricketing summer. Alongside national and county cups, the most notable games come against Eton College, Tonbridge School and MCC

Facilities The school has access to four grass pitches, eight outdoor nets and six indoor nets Club/county a liation Sussex CC Cricketers of note Alice Capsey and Freya Kemp are both Bede’s alumni,

debuted for England in 2022 and are regulars in the women’s Hundred. Archie Lenham is a central pillar of the Sussex T20 squad and became the second youngest Blast player in 2021. Other former students to have played senior cricket include

Ollie Rayner, Luke Wells, Ali Orr, Henry Crocombe, Delray Rawlins, Shai Hope, Callum Jackson and Ryana MacDonald Gay Brief history Peter Pyemon, grandfather of Archie Lenham, founded the school and was a champion of all sports and had a special love for cricket. Previous headmaster Steve Cole created a director of cricket role and enabled the school to run a professionalstandard programme. The 1st XI have won the County Langdale Cup in nine out of the last 13 years. In

2019, the U15 girls Cricket team won the Lady Taverners National Final at Lord’s and the National Schools Sports Magazine Final. In 2021, they were National Cup winners and that was followed in the next summer by victory in the National U18 100 Ball Cup

What sets the school apart? Bede’s o er a bespoke cricket programme for all year round. Training and competitive opportunities are provided for young cricketers of all levels, from participation to elite, and for boys and girls, delivered by exprofessionals

Finest moment on the field Joe Sarro, now at Sussex, took a hat-trick in the 2019 U17 National Cup semifinals against Millfield, defending one to win

Recent progress The girls’ teams have turned progress o the field into success on it

Future plans The school are planning to add three new squares to their facilities, in addition to the six new grass nets that are in the o ng Tours Teams will travel to either Cape Town or Zimbabwe in 2023

Freya Kemp and Alice Capsey

Bede’s Pupil

Bede’s Alumni

indoor nets Club/county a liation There are close links with Bedfordshire Cricket Board and Bedfordshire Schools Cricket Association

BEDFORD SCHOOL

De Parys Avenue, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK40 2TU

Established 1522

Number of pupils 700 Master in charge Gary Steer (Derbyshire CCC)

Teams (format to be 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABCDE, U14ABCDE), 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U14ABCD, U15ABCD, U16ABC Post-pandemic changes In the upper school, Bedford now o er a training programme from Year 9 to sixth which consists of net practice and one-to-one and one-to-two coaching during the squad sessions using the bowling machines

Fixtures Bedford play approximately 185 fixtures annually. MCC, Harrow, Eton, Oundle and Oakham are among the most important games Facilities The school boasts eight grass nets, 10 artificial nets and six

Cricketers of note Sir Alastair Cook (Essex/England), Alex Wakely (Northamptonshire), James Kettleborough (Northants/ Glamorgan/Derbyshire), Will Smith (Nottinghamshire/Durham/ Hampshire), Toby Bailey (Northants), Charlie Thurston (Northants), Ian Peck (Cambridge University/ Northants), Emilio Gay (Northants), William Weighell (Sussex), William Woof (Gloucestershire), Herbert Orr (Cambridge University/ Western Australia), Ralph Joyce (Leicestershire), Francis Joyce (Leicestershire) William Sime (Nottinghamshire), Gus Miller (Northants), Rohan Mehmi (Northants 2nd XI), Charlie Mumford (Hampshire)

Brief history Records of cricket being played at Bedford School go back to 1886 but only in the last 15 years have they become noticed and gained wider recognition. The school won the National U17 tournament in 2010 and 2014. Furthermore, the Alastair Cook Room in the refurbished pavilion is a symbol of what can be achieved with hard work and perseverance What sets the school apart? Steer has a wealth of experience in the

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Bedford School has become a staple of The Cricketer’s top 100 and proof of a successful model which embraces the old cliché: ‘if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’.

Those are precisely the intentions of master in charge of cricket and former Derbyshire cricketer, Gary Steer, who oversees an extensive programme.

Steer, who has coached with Warwickshire and within the ECB pathway structure, said: “Given the competing factors that all school environments bring, we are quite good at o ering a diverse programme that improves and progresses the technical side of their game as well as fitness.

game. After making 13 appearances for Derbyshire across formats he spent 13 years with Warwickshire as academy director. He understands how to develop skills and what it takes to make it in county cricket. Also formerly cricket development manager for the ECB, he is now more than seven years into his role

“We have good links with Northamptonshire, with the likes of David Ripley and Adam Rossington coming in to deliver masterclasses and sessions to the boys. It’s great to have that support of former and current pros who the lads look forward to seeing – they provide a di erent voice which the boys take a lot from and provide standards that the boys want to adhere to.”

Having won 70 per cent of their block fixtures across age groups, 2022 was a good season for Bedford, and Steer is eyeing up the winter calendar.

“We o er strength and conditioning throughout the winter while the boys are also invited in for a couple of sessions of coaching a week. Our programme starts to ramp up in January and we plan to tour Barbados next

www.bedfordschool.org.uk

at Bedford, whose production line continues relentlessly

Finest moment on the field In 2010, Bedford won the National U17 Cup by beating Myerscough College, Preston. And four years later they added a second title, overcoming Bradfield College

Recent progress The winter training programme is now very well attended and attracts current and former players to hold masterclass sessions including Adam Rossington, Lloyd Tennant, James Kettleborough and Peter Willey

Future plans Six indoor lanes are being installed while new grass pitches have been added to the first and 2nd XI squares to keep up with the demand

October, so as to avoid exam season and open it out to all our upper school,” he said.

“We have made additions to our first and second pitches, with more wickets added to the square to keep up with the demand with our ever-increasing participation. We recently invested in FrogBox so we can live stream our home and away fixtures on Saturdays while also providing video analysis which has been a great addition; they have been well received by players and parents alike.

“When they can see an innings where they have batted, bowled or fielded well as a collective or as individuals, it suddenly brings to life some of the things we drum into them on the technical side of the game throughout the long winter months.

“When they go on to score a century or take a five-fer, to have those moments as keepsakes have been fantastic for the boys.”

Master in charge Gary Steer

INDEPENDENT BOYS’ SCHOOL OF THE YEAR

We reward sporting talent.

Bedford School has an enviable cricket tradition and offers a wealth of expert coaching in addition to specialist masterclasses from former professional players.

All boys receive 1:2 coaching as standard as part of their games lessons, and scholars receive a personalised fitness programme, sports psychology support and theory sessions.

Scholarships and bursaries worth up to 100% of fees are possible for talented boys aged 13+ and 16+.

Visit our website or email admissions@bedfordschool.org.uk to find out more.

bedfordschool.org.uk

Boarding and day for boys aged 7-18

Bedford School is part of the Harpur Trust

BERKHAMSTED SCHOOL

Castle Campus, Castle Street, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 2BB

Established 1541

Number of pupils 1,850

Head of Cricket George Campbell (Sussex Cricket Board)

Head of Girls Cricket Katy Costin (Berkhamsted CC)

Professionals Mark Costin (Surrey Cricket Board & Hertfordshire/ ECB Level 3), Jason Rance (Buckinghamshire)

Teams Forty-one teams across the senior school, with A-D sides in most age groups. Senior boys, girls and mixed in years 11, 12 and 13 Girls’ cricket There are 20 girls teams in all, with at least three sides per age group. Squads train during the winter and have access to same programme as the boys. First XI reached School Sports Magazine National T20 Finals Day. 2nd XI planned for 2023

Fixtures Annually, 190 fixtures are player with standout games being any National T20 games, or clashes with MCC, Buckinghamshire, Old Berkhamstedians and the Sta XI

Facilities Ten squares including three Astro wickets, three grass nets, five Astro turf nets, a five-lane indoor facility and a separate one lane indoor facility for one-to-one work. Two gyms and use of four Astro turf nets as part of Berkhamsted CC partnership Club/county a liation AfricanCaribbean Engagement Programme and Buckinghamshire Cricket Board

Best prospect Bethan Miles is a spinbowling allrounder who is already part of the Surrey and South East Stars set-up. Teddy Fleming is part of the Buckinghamshire 1st XI and is another spinner who bats Cricketers of note Alf Morgan, Derek Morgan (both Derbyshire), Anna Nicholls (Yorkshire Diamonds) Brief history There is evidence of cricket being played at Berkhamsted as far back at 1880, when 10 matches played against Berkhamsted Brewery. Alf Morgan, part of Derbyshire’s 1936

County Championship-winning side, was the school’s groundkeeper for 20 years in the 60s and 70s

Cultural cricketers James Rodwell (England sevens head coach), Will Fraser (Saracens and England Saxons rugby), Sir Robin Knox-Johnson (sailor)

What sets the school apart? The new pavilion has transformed the 1st XI ground with wonderful views from the glass balcony. Partnership with the ACE Programme is an industry first which demonstrates the school’s commitments to diversity and inclusivity. Games are recorded and streamed through the Play Cricket Scorer and NV Play

Finest moment on the field Girls 1st XI reaching Finals Day of the School Sports Magazine National T20, finishing fourth Future plans The addition of three more pitches to keep pace with demand. The second pitch has been installed with undersoil drainage and laser levelled outfield to improve the quality of the surface

Tours Trip to Sri Lanka planned for 2023

BISHOP’S STORTFORD COLLEGE

School House, Maze Green Road, Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire CM23 2PQ

Established 1868

Number of pupils 1220 Master in charge Dave Hughes Teams Boys; 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls; U16A, U15AB; U14AB Girls’ cricket Cricket is the main sport for U8 to U16s. Plan to introduce it forU17s and U18s from this year Post-pandemic changes A winter year group training programme in addition to the elite training sessions, allowing for more contact with players during the o -season, and work on technique and skills

Fixtures The annual 1st XI match against MCC is among the 86 senior school games

Facilities Four main squares, 16 artificial outdoor nets, two mobile net cages, two indoor nets and 10 shared training/match pitches Club/county a liation Hertfordshire CCC, Bishop’s Stortford

CC, Hertfordshire, Essex CCC, Herts & Essex Cricket Centre

Best prospect Seventeenyear-old Liam Mays is impacting the 1st XI, alongside Thomas Howes. Mabel Reid and Eva Sanderson are part of the Sunrisers EPP system and feature for Hertfordshire and Cambridgeshire respectively, where Max Sanderson also plays

Master in charge Dave Hughes

an indoor heated pool, built in 1895

Cricketers of note Graham Doggart (Middlesex, MCC committee), Charles Titchmarsh (MCC)

Brief history Founded by prominent Nonconformists in East Anglia who wanted to establish a public school “in which Evangelical Nonconformists might secure for their boys, an e ective and Christian education on terms that should not be beyond the reach of the middle class generally”. After acquiring the buildings, and being named the Nonconformist Grammar School, it was changed in 1901 to the Bishop’s Stortford College. With a strong reputation for sport, the college was among the first to have

Cultural cricketers Sir Stephen Lander (MI5 director-general), Andy Peebles (Radio 1 DJ) What sets the school apart? O ering of sports scholarships and talented players an elite cricket programme throughout the o -season. Three practice sessions per week are complemented by tailored S&C programmes. The Doggart Pavilion, opened in 1933, is noted for its modern architectural style. The

outfield for the 1st XI square is one of the region’s best, having previously hosted ICC Under-19 internationals Finest moment on the field Becoming the first UK school to tour Sri Lanka in 1985/86 and playing in the inaugural Sir Garfield Sobers International Cricket Schools Festival in Barbados Recent progress Investment in new upgraded facilities and an endorsement from Mick Hunt (former Lord’s head groundsman) Future plans Enhance relationship with the Essex Cricket Graham Gooch Academy Tours Cape Town in 2023

BRADFIELD COLLEGE

Common Hill, Bradfield, Reading, Berkshire RG7 6AU

Established 1850

Number of pupils 820 Master in charge

Michael Hill

Professional Head of cricket performance - Rob Ferley (Kent, Derbyshire)

Teams Boys: U18ABCDE, U17A, U16ABC, U15ABCD, U14ABCD. Girls: U18A

Girls’ cricket Described as a major part of sport at Bradfield, girls have the choice between cricket and tennis each summer Post-pandemic changes The increased interest in cricket postCovid was retained in 2022. The number of teams fielded has gone from 14 to 21. Year group winter training bubbles have remained Fixtures 177 matches were played across the summer, with the school winning 112

Facilities Seven grass pitches and one Astro turf. Nine astro nets, 12 grass nets and five indoor nets in the sports hall Club/county a liation CCC, Southern Vipers Cricketers of note (England, Southern Vipers, Southern Brave), Graham Roope (England, Surrey), Harry Came (Derbyshire), Gus Atkinson (Surrey), Ryan Higgins (Gloucestershire, Middlesex)

Brief history

Cricket has a proud heritage at Bradfield.

The two driving aims are to foster a lifelong love of the game for all boys and girls who play while also providing the opportunity for the strongest cricketers to work towards a career in the game. Pit is the spiritual home of cricket. It was created from an old chalk quarry in 1927 and remains one of the country’s most beautiful grounds. Ted Dexter ranked only Lord’s and his old stomping ground at Radley higher. A 15-year-old Sachin Tendulkar once cleared the River Pang

Cultural cricketers Mark Nicholas (Hampshire)

Finest moment on the field The girls’ 1st XI won the T20 Nationals while losing in the semi-final of the 100-ball competition, both against Bede’s. Only two of the team have departed ahead of 2023 so hopes are again high for both competitions. The Waifs (Bradfield Old Boys) won The Cricketer Cup for the fourth time, beating Millfield in the final

BRENTWOOD SCHOOL

Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood, Essex CM15 8EE

Established 1557 Number of pupils 1640 Master in charge Andrew Nolan Professional Jaik Mickleburgh (Essex)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14AB, 13ABC, U12ABCD. Girls: U12, U13 + indoor, U15 + indoor Girls’ cricket Alongside indoor girlsonly practices, teams also enter the Lady Taverners indoor competition. They receive quality coaching from Essex coaches and players during the winter academy. Under-13 and Under-15 teams enter the Essex Cup and Mid-Essex league, and they host a girls cricket festival. Following the U15s into the Schools Sport Essex Divisional League is an U14 and first XI side

Don averages 55, has captained the 1st XI, been selected for Essex U18s and is part of the club’s academy programme

Cricketers of note Stanley Scott (Middlesex), Charles Kortright, Colin Gri ths, Graham Horrex, David Acfield, Richard Baker, Max Osborne, Ian Pont, Kishen Velani, Thomas Moore, Robin Das (all Essex)

Brief history Brentwood has a strong cricketing history, with many ex-pupils remaining in touch and providing competition to the 1st XI in the yearly fixture against Old Brentwoodians. Brentwood has been successful at all levels with many teams winning county cups and reaching the latter stages of the national competitions

Cultural cricketers Jack Straw MP, Frank Lampard (footballer) What sets the school apart?

community to raise the profile of Bradfield as a

Tours

Under-15 boys compete in the ARCH Trophy in the United Arab Emirates every other year. The 1st XI are bound for Spain and a biennial tour

Future plans Ferley joins the College in September 2023 as the new head of cricket performance. As well as working with pupils Rob will be responsible for upskilling the coaching sta and also working with the local community to raise the profile of Bradfield as a leading cricketing school Under-14 and Under-15 boys compete in the ARCH Trophy in the United Arab Emirates every other year. The 1st XI are bound for Spain and a biennial tour for the girls will begin in 2023

Fixtures There are 150 matches for boys and girls. Framlingham College, Ipswich School, Felsted, New Hall and The Leys School are the standout opponents. The seasonal festival sees Oundle School, Abingdon and St John’s Leatherhead as the opponents

Facilities Indoor sports hall has four nets, local indoor cricket centre has three nets and an outdoor facility has six nets and two roll-on nets. The school has four senior pitches over three sites with two junior surfaces. Partnership with Brentwood CC provides access to two more outdoor nets and a senior pitch Club/county a liation Brentwood CC, Essex CCC

Best prospect Batter Thinod Balage

Players are o ered one-to-one coaching during their games afternoons. They also provide a popular winter academy for all, with coaching contributions from the likes of Adam Wheater and Jamie Porter

Finest moment on the field Winning on U19 Essex Cup Finals Day in 2019 hosted at Brentwood Recent progress The U12s, U13s and U14s reached the Essex Cup final, the 1st XI got to the National Plate quarter-finals and the U13s girls played in Lady Taverners Indoor Cricket Finals Day

Future plans Building a new indoor cricket centre and improving the girls programme with more high-level coaching Tours South Africa (2023), Dubai (2024)

Professional JaikMickleburgh

Head of cricket performance Rob Ferley

Berkshire Lauren Bell

BRIGHTON ALDRIDGE COMMUNITY ACADEMY

Lewes Road, Brighton BN1 9PW

Established 2010

Number of pupils 950

Director of cricket Alexia Walker (Sussex, England Academy)

Professional Georgia Adams (Sussex, Southern Vipers, Southern Brave), John Spencer (Cambridge University, Sussex CCC)

Teams Two girls teams per year up to Year 10. Two teams represent the Aldridge Cricket Academy in the senior school Girls’ cricket The Sir Rod Aldridge Cricket Centre is the home of Sussex women and girls cricket. Girls play in the ACA senior teams and in junior sides in county run competitions. Ten girls feature in the sixth form programme of which six have appeared in tour squads, and four have played for the 1st XI

Fixtures Aldridge Cricket Academy plays more than 14 summer fixtures, in addition to 20 games for junior teams. Match v MCC the highlight Facilities The £1.8m Sir Rod Aldridge Cricket Centre has three lanes, two BOLA machines, and a Merlyn and Lobster feeder. Full grass square with 12 wickets and one artificial, managed by Sussex CCC, including sightscreens and scoreboard. Hybrid wicket installed as part of Vipers link-up Club/county a liation Sussex Cricket Foundation, Sussex CCC, St Peters CC, MCC, Southern Vipers Best prospect Sixteen-year-old Sussex academy member Frankie Cripps opens the bowling for the 1st XI and Brighton and Hove CC in the Sussex Premier League Cricketers of note Keith Greenfield (Sussex), Will She eld (Sussex), Tara Norris (Sussex Women, England Academy), Liam O’Brien (England PD)

Brief history The Aldridge Cricket

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Brighton Aldridge Community Academy, the flag- bearer for cricketing state schools, are in safe hands with former England allrounder Alexia Walker at the helm.

Having first appeared in the Schools Guide in 2018, they have since made the cut four years in a row, proof of the incredible work going on at the Sussex institution.

Walker, the BACA director of cricket, said: “We are lucky we have a lot of people who raise money for our facilities who 100 per cent believe in our philosophy. Kids should be able to follow their dreams whether that be academically or on the sports field.

“We have a great partnership with Sussex, who are supportive of state school initiatives and deliver coaching sessions to our players on a weekly basis. We had a lad who came to

Academy o ers tailored programmes for players from years seven to sixth form. Teams regularly travel abroad to the likes of South Africa and Sri Lanka. More than 100 have gone through the programme, with many gaining senior honours. Sir Rod Aldridge Cricket Centre opened by Charlotte Edwards in 2016 What sets the school apart? One of the few state schools to heavily invest in cricket, delivering a full programme of high-quality facilities, training and community development. In the midst

of three-year relationship with Sussex CCC. Regular host for Sussex Women matches. Facilities endorsed by Tymal Mills and Sussex CEO Rob Andrew Finest moment on the field Beat Sussex Martlets in 2015 at Arundel Castle. Chris Barnett taking 5 for 28 in inaugural MCC match in 2018 Future plans Increase interaction with Sussex including access to their T20 head coach James Kirtley. Over 150 hours of Sussex coaching added to the programme for 2022/23. Two sixth form students will spend six months playing and working with charities in New Zealand Tours South Africa or the Caribbean in 2023. Tours in alternate years for the junior cricket pathway and sixth form cricket academy

us three years ago and joined their academy – he made his debut for the Sussex second team in September. They know it works and can pluck players from us who they know are receiving top level coaching with fantastic facilities.”

Walker is talking to The Cricketer from BACA’s £1.8million purpose-built cricket centre, where the Sussex men and Southern Vipers women regularly come to train.

“It’s natural to see professional players from both the men’s and women’s game walking around site every day,” she said.

“We had Jofra Archer who came in and spoke to the kids and did a Q&A session and was fantastic with them. The late, great Shane Warne also came in last year and stayed with us for three hours, delivering a masterclass and speaking to every single player (13 of whom were spinners).

“We were so incredibly grateful we got to experience that before his tragic passing. We find, because we are a state school, current or former pros give us more time because they like what we are doing, which provides the kids with so much inspiration.”

BACA o ers a specialised programme for their sixth-form seniors (as well as a junior programme for the rest of the school), with four hours of coaching a day, five days a week. Southern Vipers captain Georgia Adams delivers these sessions alongside Walker, while the school recently announced the exciting signing of former Pakistan allrounder Yasir Arafat, who will spend a day a week over winter working with players from all year groups.

The school has also seen two boys fly o on all-expenses paid scholarships to New Zealand to play cricket over the winter, linking up with The Willows CC in Christchurch while working with two charities.

“We want to create good cricketers as well as good people,” Walker said. BACA are certainly paving the way for state schools.

Director of cricket Alexia Walker

Leading The Way in State School Cricket

BACA is the state school of choice for Sussex Cricket. It offers unique, tailored academic study and cricket development programmes for male and female cricketers from Year 7 through to Sixth Form.

• World Class £2m indoor cricket centre

• Premier league square maintained by Sussex Cricket

• Home of Sussex Women & Girls and the Southern Vipers

• Overseas tours including South Africa, UAE and Sri Lanka

• Excellent progression into professional cricket, university, apprenticeships and employment

“ BACA stands as a beacon for the sport in the state sector”

Mike Atherton writing in The Times, May 2020

For more information please visit www.baca-uk.org uk/cricket or email Director of Cricket, Alexia Walker at alexiawalker@baca-uk.org uk

Brighton Aldridge Community Academy

BRIGHTON COLLEGE

Eastern Road, Brighton BN2 0AL

Established 1845

Number of pupils 1,185

Master in charge Mark Davis (Sussex)

Professional Jason Swift (ACT Comets)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U15ABCD, U14ABCD. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB

Girls’ cricket A full fixture list and winter development programme

Fixtures The boys 1st XI play around 23 matches a summer with the agegroup side fulfilling 10 depending on cup commitments. Girls 1st XI have six games and the other side feature in five but they are represented in the boys sides, so that often increases to a dozen

Facilities Ten artificial nets, three grass nets and two pitches on the Jubilee ground Club/county a liation The school has a good relationship with Sussex CCC, MCC and Sussex Martlets

Best prospect Wicketkeeper/ batter Sam Topping is part of the Sussex academy and has already represented the 2nd XI Cricketers of note Sammy Woods (Somerset, England & Australia), Matt Prior (Sussex & England), Matt Machan (Sussex, Scotland), Carl Hopkinson, Neil Lenham (both Sussex), Joe Gatting (Sussex, Hampshire), Michael Thornely (Sussex, Leicestershire), Malcolm Waller (Zimbabwe), Bazid Khan (Pakistan), Holly Colvin, Sarah Taylor, Laura Marsh (all England Women), Clare

Connor, Georgia Adams (Southern Brave, Southern Vipers), Freya Davies (England, South East Stars, London Spirit)

Brief history Brighton College boast one of the finest cricket programmes for girls in the country, having produced more England players than any other school. Their ethos is a simple one: to inspire pupils into a lifelong love of the game. School returned to normal as soon as possible following the pandemic What sets the school apart?

College has access to first-class facilities at Sussex’s home at Hove for their winter programme. Two boys have recently gone on to represent Sussex 2nd XI

Finest moment on the field In June 2016, the 1st XI tied two consecutive games within three days against MCC and Ardingly, with both fixtures played on the same wicket

Recent progress An indoor school has been developed in the new School of Science and Sport building while there is also a strength and conditioning suite to work on general fitness and physical preparation

Future plans A hybrid pitch is being installed on the home ground Tours Sri Lanka tour for fourth form and lower-fifth in December 2022

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Brighton College’s focus on providing cricket facilities for its students all year around makes it stand out from the crowd, according to master in charge Mark Davis.

Davis, the former Sussex professional, has overseen the development of a full winter programme, with the construction of a bespoke indoor facility at its heart.

And it is that project which he feels has taken the school’s cricket o ering on considerably.

“When I arrived, we had no provision for o ering a winter programme or being able to pull boys out of class for extra one-to-one sessions,” Davis said. “The underground car park was going to be used to store our fleet

of minibuses but I managed to convince the headmaster to convert the space into an indoor cricket centre.”

Davis was thrilled to discover Brighton College had made The Cricketer’s top 100 once again.

“It’s a great honour to be chosen– it’s amazing and something which we don’t take for granted. There is still a lot of work to be done as a cricket school but a challenge we enjoy. We have gained a lot of ground on the other schools in Sussex and have committed a lot to both the boys’ and girls’ programmes,” he said.

“We now have a lot of the boys on the Sussex age-group pathways and an increasing number of girls too. We’ve had girls join our programme from other schools in London, who were involved in the Surrey and Kent setups who

www.brightoncollege.org.uk

then moved over to the Sussex pathways.”

Girls’ cricket at Brighton College is upwardly mobile.

“Our girls are incredibly exciting. We have a lot of lower and upper fifth formers (years 10 and 11) playing in the first team, so it’s a very young side and ensures we have a strong squad going forward,” Davis said.

“Our under-15 boys went unbeaten in their block fixtures and are now moving through to senior cricket, the challenge now is keeping them engaged and helping them make that next step up. Our first team won all but the opening game of the season and have the added bonus of using the Sussex facilities during the winter, while our juniors use the indoor centre.”

Brighton College now has four boys in the Sussex academy, which Davis notes hasn’t happened for some time, describing it as “encouraging”. It sounds like there is much more to come.

Master in charge Mark Davis

Matt Prior

Leicestershire CCC, Worcestershire CCC, Warwickshire CCC

Best prospect Alfie Higgins is a talented top order batter who bowls Cricketers of note Ben Cox (Worcestershire CCC, Trent Rockets)

BROMSGROVE SCHOOL

Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B61 7DU

Established 1553

Number of pupils 950 Master in charge Dave Fallows Professional Kelly Evenson (England development)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U15A Girls’ cricket Cricket for girls is first introduced through softball cricket in the junior school. Hardball

matches are then implemented in the senior school

Fixtures The school fulfils as many as 90 matches each summer. Clashes with Malvern, Sedbergh and Shrewsbury are the most eagerly anticipated Facilities There are four cricket squares at the senior school. Furthermore, there are four lanes of grass nets, five lanes of non-turf outdoor nets, four lanes in the indoor sports hall and an indoor arena with eight lanes Club/county a liation

Brief history Originally founded in the Middle Ages, Bromsgrove was re-established as a Tudor grammar school in the mid-1500s. A grant from Sir Thomas Cookes in 1693 produced the first buildings on the present site and also the historic link with Worcester College, Oxford. During the Second World War the school moved to Wales while the buildings were used by the British government. Possessing a strong cricket tradition, more recently the U15s won the ESCA/ECB National T20 final at Arundel Castle in 2018 and the U17s were crowned

National Champions in 2019

What sets the school apart?

The school provides a deep and sophisticated, player-centric 12-month cricket programme for all those that wish to participate. A detailed strength and conditioning programme ensures that pupils are fit to play cricket

Finest moment on the field The U17s became National Champions in 2019 courtesy of victory over Bede’s School. Defending 158, Bromsgrove claimed two stumpings and a run-out in the final over to secure victory

Recent progress Several students have progressed onto the pathway programme of neighbouring firstclass county cricket clubs

Future plans Tom Milnes started as the new director of cricket in September 2022. Milnes, an England Under-19 and Under-17 international, was part of the Warwickshire side that won the County Championship title in 2012 and played 26 first-class matches, taking 47 wickets, and had a loan spell at Derbyshire. Previously worked as interim director of cricket at Denstone College

CATERHAM SCHOOL

Harestone Valley Road, Caterham, Surrey CR3 6YA

Established 1811

Number of pupils 1,100 Master in charge Jonathan Batty (Surrey, Gloucestershire, Northamptonshire)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABCD. Girls: U15, U14AB, U13AB, U12ABCD Girls’ cricket Introduced as a option during games lessons for all year groups. Nine teams play a mixture of soft and hardball matches How has cricket bounced back More pupils than ever before are choosing cricket for games lessons Fixtures Across around 145 summer fixtures, the game against MCC is by far the standout Facilities There are seven cricket squares on site, supplemented by five outdoor nets and four indoor nets Club/county a liation Caterham CC are regular visitors and use the second ground to host home matches Best prospect Callum Noonan is a

top talent and is already part of the Surrey U16s system

Cricketers of note Alistair Brown (Surrey and England), David Sales (Northamptonshire, England A), James Benning (Surrey), Nathan Barnwell (Surrey, England U19s) Brief history Founded in Lewisham

by the Rev John Townsend, whose statue sits in the main halls, William Wilberforce was the founding governor of the school. In 1884, it moved to its current site in the Harestone Valley in Surrey, having outgrown its London premises. In 1890, Caterham opened its doors to

the sons of laymen and to day boys. Caterham School has been co-ed for over 35 years, after merging with Eothen School for Girls

Cultural cricketers Angus Deayton (TV presenter), Chuck Iwuji (actor) What sets the school apart?

Students have the riches of beautiful grounds, a rich cricketing history and the school’s track record of producing first-class payers to feed o Finest moment on the field Setting a school record of 427 for 5 from 50 overs against Christ’s Hospital School in 2015

Recent progress Girls cricket has enjoyed sensational growth over the last 12 months across the prep and senior school

Future plans There are hopes to build on the link up with Caterham CC, with whom they share facilities. Additionally, adding to current net facilities is necessary to accommodate the growth in the girls game and the number of pupils playing cricket Tours Last saw teams tour South Africa for two weeks. Next senior tour is set for 2022 and there is an annual junior tour to Su olk in July

CHARTERHOUSE

Hurtmore Road, Godalming, Surrey

GU7 2DX

Established 1611

Number of pupils 850 Master in charge Martin Bicknell (Surrey, England)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U16AB, U15ABCDE, U14ABCD Girls’ cricket Having become co-ed

in 2021-22, a girls cricket programme is now part of the curriculum and started from Year 9 Fixtures The year of 2022 saw 126 fixtures with the 1st XI fulfilling 22 of those. Matches against Harrow and Eton are the main games in the calendar

Facilities The school can call on seven cricket squares, two artificial pitches, 18 artificial nets and a sports centre for indoor practice with four

CHEADLE HULME SCHOOL

Claremont Road, Cheadle Hulme, Cheshire SK8 6EF

Established 1855

Number of pupils 1,500 Master in charge Graham Clinton Professional Karl Brown (Lancashire)

Teams Boys: U18AB, U17, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABC. Girls: U18, U16, U15, U14, U13, U12

Girls’ cricket Brown leads a full yearround programme for girls

Post-pandemic changes There is a huge emphasis on late developers and focus on age groups from Year 9. Teams are rotated to help inspire to inspire a new group of cricketers Fixtures Sedbergh, Myerscough and MCC are the biggest games in amongst 150 annual games

Facilities Two indoor nets, four outdoor nets, two grass squares, one artificial square Club/county a liation The school are hosting a county age-group festival in conjunction with Cheshire and Lancashire cricket boards

lanes

Best prospect Sixteen-year-old Luke Gri ths is an allrounder and has already been picked up by Surrey. He has the ability to bowl extremely quickly for his age and take on an opponent’s bowling attack with the bat

Cricketers of note Peter May (Surrey and England), James Hamblin (Hampshire), Gregor MacMillan (Leicestershire), James Bovill (Hampshire)

Brief history Charterhouse has a reputation for producing hard, true surfaces. Former England captain Peter May headlines the school’s extensive production line of cricketers. There is a picturesque surrounding to the main pitch, which sits in between the school, the chapel and with woods on the other sides. A John Player League match between Surrey and Warwickshire was hosted at the school in 1972. The sport has been played at Charterhouse since 1839

Cultural cricketers Jeremy Hunt (Chancellor of the Exchequer), Lord Baden Powell (soldier and founder of

the Scout movement), Robert Graves (poet), Peter O’Sullevan (horse racing commentator), Brian Glanville (football journalist and writer) What sets the school apart?

Few schools can boast an England international as the lead of their cricket programme. Bicknell played four Tests and seven one-day internationals and was part of the Surrey side that dominated domestic cricket – winning three County Championship titles in four years across the turn of the century. Retired in 2006

Finest moment on the field HMC T20 finalists in 2018

Recent progress The school has county-standard facilities, including upgraded nets and a 1st XI square. Charterhouse also o er a prominent prep school programme, tournaments and masterclasses for all players who wish to participate

Future plans Further development of girls cricket following its inaugural year in the 2021/22 academic year

Tours School went to Cape Town in December 2019 but no forthcoming trips are planned

Best prospect Liam Grindlay has played county cricket since Year 4, scored hundreds this year for the U15s in the CAG and bats down the order for the 1st XI Cricketers of note Prithvi Shaw (India, Delhi Capitals)

Brief history Cheadle Hulme School has been a leading cricketing school in the North West for the last six years, regularly winning county cups and reaching later stages of girls’ and boys’ national competitions.

Former headteacher Lucy Pearson, the former England Women seamer,

instigated change and current head, Neil Smith, is a keen Lancashire supporter and has further invested in the sport

What sets the school apart? Sta are highly qualified and provide a thorough programme throughout the year, including holidays. The school is keen on the pastoral side of managing players and they support the holistic view of students as well as their cricketing ability

Finest moment on the field Ed Fluck scoring the school’s first double century in India in 2017

Recent progress There has been real progress around the U15 group, who are showing real desire to learn new skills and play matches

Future plans CHS hope to host more county fixtures and recruit a female cricket coach to boost the girls’ game. There is also scope for girls’ cricket to actively be prioritised ahead of boys’ cricket in terms of fixture scheduling in the future, in an e ort to cement itself as a leader in girls cricket in the North West

Tours Senior tour to Sri Lanka scheduled in 2023

CHELTENHAM COLLEGE

Bath Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL53 7LD

Established 1841

Number of pupils 725

Master in charge Matt Coley

Professional Mark Briers (Leicestershire, Worcestershire, Durham)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI,

U15AB

Girls’ cricket Cricket is a core sport o ering in the summer term, and it is now o ered during the spring Post-pandemic changes The introduction of a 100-ball festival Fixtures Of the 100-plus fixtures across the summer, the school plays in the John Harvey Cup against Radley, Bradfield, Marlborough, St. Edward’s Oxford and Winchester. MCC, Gloucestershire Gipsies and Free Foresters visit annually and there

is a two-day fixture v Haileybury Facilities There are five squares plus one dedicated for the Cheltenham Cricket Festival. A double sports hall with eight indoor nets, in addition to four artificial nets and four grass nets. The Cheltenham Prep School sports hall with four indoor nets is also available Club/county a liation

Gloucestershire CCC, Gloucestershire Cricket Board, Charlton Kings CC, Girls IAPS Cricket Festival Best prospect The U14 side contains six players part of county systems, with one playing for the 1st XI Cricketers of note Josh Dell (Worcestershire CCC), Oliver Soames (Derbyshire CCC & Dorset CCC), Mike Cawdron, Dom Hewson (both Gloucestershire CCC)

Brief history Cricket has been played at college ever since its foundation. Led by Mark Briers, the programme benefits from a number of dedicated sports coaches and members of the college teaching sta . The 1st XI square is one of the finest in the country. Hosting The Cheltenham Cricket Festival every year since 1872

– the longest running festival at the same venue – Gloucestershire CCC play rival counties in four-day cricket and T20s. The Talented Athlete Programme provides a winter training programme and S&C provision

Cultural cricketers Simon Danelli (Ulster, Scotland rugby) and Nick Abendanon (Bath, Clermont, England rugby)

What sets the school apart?

Cheltenham has played host to some historic performances. WG Grace took 12 for 73 against Surrey in 1872 and five years later claimed 17 for 89, having hit 318 not out in 1876. Wally Hammond took a world record 10 catches in an innings by a fielder and then added a century in each innings against Surrey in 1928

Finest moment on the field Winning the ARCH Trophy in the UAE in 2019

Recent progress Fielding a girls 1st XI for the first time alongside two U15 sides playing hardball cricket

Future plans Further experiment with formats – two innings of 10-12 overs-a-side, with all players bowling and batting – engage the entire team

CLAYESMORE SCHOOL

Iwerne Minster, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 8LL

Established 1896

Number of pupils 380 Master in charge Dan Conway (Oxford MCCU, Herefordshire CCC & Yorkshire CCC)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15AB, U14ABC. Girls: U18, U16 Girls’ cricket A full programme is supported from September to July. Girls teams enter National T20 and Dorset competitions, and individuals feature in boys teams Post-pandemic changes The new outdoor net facility has made cricket accessible across the year and caters for increased demand. More strength and conditioning sessions have been incorporated into the winter programme. Coaches with National Counties experience cater for increased demand Fixtures 90 fixtures across the school includes a cricket week for the 1st XI, the last few days of term, opened by MCC match

Facilities Five pitches with turf wickets, four new artificial nets and turf nets, six grass lanes, sports hall with four indoor lanes Club/county a liation Dorset CCC, Hampshire CCC Bournemouth CC, Bashley (Rydal) CC, Shroton CC

Best prospect Finn Gordon is a left-handed top-order batter and o -spinner, who plays for Bashley (Rydal) CC in the Southern Premier League and represented Dorset Development XI against Hampshire

and the MCC Cricketers of note JWA Stevenson (Essex, Worcestershire CCC), George Renolds-Brown ( Essex CCC), Lewis McManus ( Hampshire, Northamptonshire CCC) Brief history Cricket has been played at the school since 1896. The alumni society has, for over 60 years, run an annual cricket week, enabling ex-students to take on former adversaries

Cultural cricketers Anthony Allen (Gloucester, Leicester Tigers, England

rugby), Shannon Falcone ( Americas Cup winner), Tom Hicks (author), Tony Hart (artist)

What sets the school apart? Links with Bournemouth CC and Shroton CC ensure that pupils have a clear pathway into club cricket. The yearlong cricket programme features early morning and evening skill sessions, strength and conditioning sessions, one-on-one coaching, professional players delivering evening training and nutrition advice and sport psychology talks

Finest moment on the field Successfully chasing an MCC total of 189 having been nine down needing 25. Girls roaring to county cup glory

Recent progress The school are creating stronger links with clubs in the Southern Premier League and have over 10 pupils currently participating. Pupils are enrolled on coaching courses and volunteer at the prep school and local clubs

Future plans Building of a new senior school pavilion is close to beginning Tours Annual winter tour to La Santa for strength and conditioning and Sri Lanka in 2023

Master in charge

Dan Conway

CLIFTON COLLEGE

Guthrie Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3EZ

Established 1862

Number of pupils 800 Master in charge John Bobby Professional Jim Williams (Glamorgan)

Teams Boys: Senior 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd

XI, 4th XI, Junior Colts ABC, Yearlings

ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket is growing at pace at Clifton. There are more girls being introduced to cricket in the prep school so the demand for more senior teams is expected to increase. Indeed, coping with the demand is the challenge facing them Post-pandemic changes Cricket now starts in September after a

permanent shift post-pandemic leading to an all-year round programme

Fixtures All Saturdays are filled for major matches with boys and girls teams entered in national competitions

Facilities Main Ground ‘The Close’, 10-lane outdoor cricket school, four indoor nets in sports hall and six additional grounds are available for use Club/county a liation Gloucestershire CCC

Best prospect Ben Kellaway and Ryan Kilmister are part of the Glamorgan and Gloucestershire setups, respectively, and have already represented their 2nd XI sides Cricketers of note James Kirtley (Sussex CCC), Jim Williams (Glamorgan CCC), Matt Windows (Gloucestershire CCC), Prem Sisodiya (Glamorgan CCC), Dom Goodman (Gloucestershire CCC), Will Naish (Gloucestershire CCC)

Brief history Henry Newbolt“There’s a breathless hush in the Close to-night, Ten to make and the match to win” - wrote this lines in 1892

about cricket on Clifton’s Close and made The Close a sporting location famous throughout the cricketing world. Seven years after the poem was written, AEJ Collins scored 628 not out in a Clifton house match. This remains the highest individual score by a batter ever recorded in England Cultural cricketers John Cleese (actor, writer)

Finest moment on the field Defeating Tonbridge School on the Nursery Ground in 2014. The game was played to commemorate 100 years since the first fixture between the two schools and since the start of World War One. Zak Crawley and Ben Earl (Saracens RFC) were in the Tonbridge XI

Recent progress Sarah Johnson has led a rapidly developing cricket programme which the school are extremely proud of

Future plans The Challaram Sports Centre will be completed in 2024 which will house state of the art indoor cricket facilities

Tours The school plan to embark on a trip to Cape Town in 2023 after three years of cancelled tours

CRANLEIGH SCHOOL

Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8QQ

Established 1865

Number of pupils 700 Master in charge Alex Forsdike, Stuart Welch (director of cricket) Teams Boys: 1st XI, U18ABCDE, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U18, U17, U15AB, U14AB Girls’ cricket The 1st XI play MCC each year. The school has one player in the Scotland set-up and several across county age groups. Under-15 and Under-18 sides have reached regional competitions Post-pandemic changes Central to the return of cricket has been the one-onone training programme Fixtures The 1st XI played up to 15 games. A, B and C sides across the ages

fulfil around nine games, with the girls sides playing eight. MCC, Wellington College, Tonbridge, Whitgift and Charterhouse are the stand-out games Facilities A dedicated two-lane indoor school, three indoor nets, five cricket squares, 13 outdoor artificial nets

Club/county a liation Surrey CC, Cranleigh CC, Glebelands School Best prospect Yousef Majid and Tommy Ealham are both part of the Surrey second XI while Molly Barbour Smith and Abi Stevenson are starring for the Under-15s Cricketers of note Tom Lawes (Surrey), Ollie Pope (England and Surrey, left), Michael Burgess (Warwickshire)

Brief history A community school launched for the sons of local farmers, Cranleigh is now part of an international family of co-educational schools. It has retained 280 acres of beautiful Surrey countryside and remains a friendly boarding school.

The school’s ethos seeks to fulfil the aims of the school’s founders and urges students to look beyond themselves to make a di erence to the society in which they live and work

What sets the school apart? Former pupil Harry Calder – a former 1st XI captain – won the Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1916, the only man to do so who never went on to play first-class cricket Finest moment on the field In 2014, the school won both the Cricketer

Cup and the National Under-15 Cup –the first in Surrey to do so

Recent progress A full-time girls cricket section which now includes fixtures during the week and the weekend

Future plans The installation of a new six-bay net area is expected in the next year

Tours The school take a team of Year 10, 11 and 12 on tour every two years. Following trips to Sri Lanka, South Africa and India, a side is going to Spain in Easter 2023

DOLLAR ACADEMY

Mylne Avenue, Dollar, Scotland FK14 7DU

Established 1818

Number of pupils 1300 Master in charge Eddie Pollock Professional Chris Greaves (Scotland)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB, U11AB. Girls: U12, U11 (softball)

Girls’ cricket Cricket is part of the games curriculum from Under-11 to Under-14, with three softball teams being added from 2023 Post-pandemic changes

Fixture for B teams have been run for Under-13s, 14s and 15s for the first time Fixtures The 1st XI play 13 matches over 10 weeks, the highlight being MCC

Facilities Five indoor nets, eight artificial nets, eight grass nets, four match pitches Club/county a liation

DULWICH COLLEGE

Dulwich Common, London SE21 7LD

Established 1619

Number of pupils 1,600 Master in charge Robert Craze Professional Adam Riley (Kent CCC)

Teams 45 teams between Under-8 and Under-18

Fixtures There are 200 annual fixtures, with the 1st XI playing around 20. Notable fixtures including MCC, Free Foresters and Tonbridge School

Facilities Eight indoor nets in the sports hall, 14 outdoor all-weather nets, five all-weather match wickets and eight grass squares of varying sizes Club/county a liation Surrey CCC, London Schools Cricket Association

Best prospect Roan

A new Cricket Scotland partnership sees the school become the training centre for Under-15, 17 and 19 boys and girls national teams

Best prospect 1st XI captain Daniel Pearson, has played for Scotland Under-15 and Under-17s and is an elegant ball-striker and excellent fielder. He is also an international hockey player

Cricketers of note Jamie Cairns (Scotland U19, Durham 2nd XI)

Brief history As one of the principal sports at Dollar, cricket facilities are well resourced for any pupil looking for an introduction to the sport or to build on existing skills. Dollar places a premium on the value of team games and, as well as being enjoyable, cricket teaches positive virtues such as teamwork, performing under pressure, and sportsmanship. The school was founded by the Rev Andrew Mylne following a bequest

by Captain John McNabb. McNabb died in 1802 and in his will he specified that the interest on half his estate was to provide “a charity or school for the parish of Dollar and shire of Clackmannan where I was born”

Cultural cricketers John Barclay and Graeme Morrison (Scotland rugby) Finest moment on the field Under18s winning the National T20 Cup in 2018 and 2019. Under-15s did the same in 2018 and were runners-up in 2022

Recent progress

Partnership with Cricket Scotland has led to upgrade of training facilities including a four-bay practice area, an artificial match pitch, an electronic scoreboard, and four mobile cages. School also prides itself on strength and conditioning facilities

Future plans Move to improve links with eight local clubs to continue the progress of the school’s 200-strong player base Tours Spain in February 2024

Kennedy is a fast-bowler, dynamic fielder and attacking batter who has already been picked up by Surrey CCC and Wimbledon CC Cricketers of note 79 former pupils have gone on to play first-class cricket. The highest profile included Trevor Bailey, Roger Knight (Surrey), Ruel Braithwaite (Durham CCC and Hampshire CCC) and Chris Jordan (Surrey CCC, Sussex CCC and England, left)

Brief history Dulwich College have been playing cricket since 1873 when fixtures were played against Christ’s Hospital, Epsom College and St Paul’s School. In 1874, Tonbridge School was added to the fixture card, followed by Bedford School in 1882 and Brighton College in 1883. England, Sri Lanka, South Africa, the Netherlands and Surrey CCC have all used the Dulwich College 1st XI square for training and practice sessions. There are 45 sides that are regularly fielded by the college, which has an active

common room team, known as ‘The Dusters’ who played weekly on the main squad. There is a rumour that the phrase ‘cow corner’ originated at Dulwich, due to cows grazing in an area near deep midwicket

Cultural cricketers PG Wodehouse (author)

What sets the school apart? The main 1st XI square ranks as one of the most scenic in London

Finest moment on the field In 2021, both the U12A team and U14A team won the London Schools’ Knockout tournament. In 2022, the U13A team reached the final of the English Schools’ Cricket Association Bunbury competition. In the first three years of the HMC schools’ national T20 competition, Dulwich reached the final on each occasion, beating Sherborne School but losing against Repton College and Millfield School Future plans As well as the links with schools in the Southwark Schools’ Learning Partnership, the ACE Programme provide an annual community cricket day

Tours There will be a senior cricket tour to Sri Lanka in 2024

DUNOTTAR SCHOOL

36 High Trees Road, Reigate, Surrey RH2 7EL

Established 1926

Number of pupils 450 Master in charge Jack James Myers Teams Boys: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC. Girls: U15A, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABCD Girls’ cricket The Dunottar School Girls Academy runs from October to April on weekday mornings, and is led by Chloe Brewer of South East Stars. A/B teams typically play hard-ball matches, with soft ball used in C/D ‘smash it’ fixtures

Post-pandemic changes Cricket has seen a dramatic rise in the number of boys and girls participating on a weekly basis. Approximately 80 per cent of year groups attend each evening for training

Fixtures Whitgift, St John’s Leatherhead and Epsom are the headline matches of a fixture schedule including 150 games

Facilities New four-lane cricket net facility in new sports hall thanks to

partnership with Surrey Cricket Foundation. Two pitches at Westhumble, three with Merstham Cricket, two pitches at Salfords, one pitch with Leigh CC and Old Reigatians Rugby Club Club/county a liation Salfords CC, Merstham CC, Dorking CC, Leigh CC, Reigate Priory CC

Best prospect Max Wallis and Advaith Bali are part of Surrey U15s and Henry James with Surrey U12s Brief history Dunottar School has transformed from having only 18 fixtures in 2016 to over 120 in to 2021. The school has created links with local clubs, to both raise the participation levels at grass

roots cricket as well as provide a fun and engaging platform for cricketers to learn and develop What sets the school apart? The school provides a programme that delivers competitive fixtures for over 60 per cent of students. Cricket is the most anticipated sport at the school, seeks to stretch and challenge the most able cricketers through the running of a morning girls and boys academy which runs from October through to the start of the summer

Finest moment on the field Under-13s became Indoor County champions in 2022 and Under-14s reached County Cup semi-finals in 2019. In 2021, the school was used for The Cricketer’sClub Cricket Guide battesting day involving Ian Bell

Recent progress 1st XI boys and girls teams have been formed, with caps and numbers being awarded to players

Future plans A new two-lane outdoor facility being build on site. Eighteen sta and 20 pupils are taking their ECB Level 1 and support coaching qualification

Tours South Africa in 2023

DURHAM CATHEDRAL SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

Quarryheads Lane, Durham DH1 4SZ

Established 1414

Number of pupils 780 Master in charge Mark Bedworth Professional Gordon Muchall (Durham)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15,

U14A, U14B, U13, U12. Girls: U15, U14, U13, U12

Girls’ cricket In addition to the four currently existing sides, there are plans to add an Under-16 side Post-pandemic changes The fixture list now runs until the early weeks of September Fixtures Sedbergh, St Peter’s York, Ampleforth College, RGS Newcastle, Barnard Castle, MCC, Durham Pilgrims and Newcastle School for

Boys are the notable matches. 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15 & U13 teams play in threeday festivals Facilities Indoor sports hall with four lanes, main pitch on the playground and a smaller pitch on the bottom. Choristers has a sports hall with three indoor lanes and an astroturf wicket Club/county a liation Durham CCC, Durham CC, Durham City CC Cricketers of note Michael Roseberry (Middlesex, Durham, England), Andrew Roseberry (Leicestershire, Glamorgan), Phil Weston (Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Derbyshire), Robin Weston (Durham, Derbyshire, Middlesex), Gordon Muchall (Durham), Paul Muchall (Gloucestershire), Jonny Bushnell (Durham), Fraser Watts (Scotland), Olivia Rae (Scotland)

Brief history A cricket team has existed since at least 1847, but regular matches with other schools did not start until 1866 with the annual game against St Peter’s, York. Other annual matches followed: Sedbergh in 1908; Ampleforth in 1915; Giggleswick in 1933; Barnard Castle in 1937 and

St Bees in 1938. The school has provided many top quality players, at all age levels, to local and county clubs. TF Dodd (1846-54): “Cricket was much the same as now, except that bowling above the level of the shoulder was not allowed. We had not the tremendous scores you now have.” (Taken from Floreat Dunelmia, the 6ooth anniversary book of Durham School)

Cultural cricketers Mike Weston (England rugby, British & Irish Lions) What sets the school apart?

Durham is one of the oldest schools in the country, with a cricketing history dating back to 1847

Recent progress A continuation of the school’s fine record of producing first-class cricketers, which is now transitioning into the girls side of the programme

Future plans A new pavilion is planned for the 2023 season on the main pitch the ‘Playground’. The school is looking to develop the Palmers Close pitch into another senior-sized cricket venue

Tours Hope to take a team to Western Australia in October 2023

Master in charge

Jack James Myers

EASTBOURNE COLLEGE

Old Wish Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN21 4JY

Established 1867

Number of pupils 650

Master in charge Rob Ferley (Kent, Nottinghamshire)

Professional James Tredwell (England, Kent, Sussex)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U15A, U14A

Girls’ cricket Since being launched around six years ago, the school’s provision of girls’ cricket has grown steadily. The sport is a games option throughout summer term and there is a voluntary winter training programme previously led by Tara Norris (Southern Vipers, Southern Brave, Sussex, USA) and Nancy Harman (London Spirit)

Fixtures Across the school’s 13 teams roughly 120 matches are fulfilled Facilities Five indoor nets, five grounds and eight astroturf nets Club/county a liation MCC Foundation

Cricketers of note Ed Giddins (Sussex, Warwickshire, Surrey, England, below), Matt Hobden, Harry Finch, Jamie Atkins, Oli Carter, Tom Hinley, Dan Ibrahim (all Sussex), Tawanda Muyeye (Kent), Brad Evans (Zimbabwe, Cardi MCCU)

Brief history There is a very strong tradition of cricket, with 13 teams fielded every week during the summer term. Girls and boys enjoy specialist

coaching all year round. Major tours are undertaken every three years, giving pupils an opportunity to play abroad in challenging environments while enjoying new cultural experiences along the way. Recent destinations have included Barbados, Dubai, Nepal and Sri Lanka

Recent progress The school strives to never stand still, always trying to develop its cricket o ering and ensuring students have the same access all year round and the opportunity develop a lifelong passion. Central to that delivery is Ferley. “My one instruction to the coaching team is we want to develop good people who enjoy cricket and fulfil their capability, and that’s it,” he says. “If I want to develop good people, how can I define someone by the fact they play a better cover drive?”Additionally, since 2021 eight-a-side 100-ball games staged Monday evenings throughout the winter were introduced. Available to both boys (outdoor) and girls (indoor), the matches are completely voluntary, allowing students to participate in other extra-curricular activities, and attracts around 30 pupils per week

Future plans The school live stream summer matches. The college also has its own fantasy league which every cricketer is involved in. Pupils pick players from each side and their performances count each week, with students accruing points to find an eventual winner at the end of each year

Tours Tours take place every two years and there are hopes for a first tour abroad since the pandemic in October 2023

ELIZABETH COLLEGE, GUERNSEY

La Grange, St Peter Port, Guernsey GY1 2PY

Established 1563 Number of pupils 959 Master in charge Thomas Paul Eisenhuth

Professional Ben Ferbrache (Guernsey)

Teams 1st XI, Year 9AB, Year 8AB, Year 7AB

Girls’ cricket After moving to a co-educational school, the first girl to represent the college 1st XI in 459 years occurred this year Fixtures The 1st XI play 18 matches, headlined by matches against Victoria College Jersey and Melbourne Grammar Facilities Two grounds both with grass wickets, two practice grass wickets, two artificial nets, three lanes in sport hall Club/county a liation Guernsey Cricket Board

Best prospect Charlie Birch averages 70 in the men’s premier division. Left-arm seam bowler Ben Johnson won his maiden international T20 cap against Jersey in May 2022. Emily Merrien also made her international T20 debut this year against Jersey and represents the college 1st XI Cricketers of note Tom Nightingale, Will Peatfield, Zak Damarell, Nathan Le Tissier, Ben Ferbrache (all Guernsey)

Brief history The college aims to present opportunities for the broadening of horizons and the development of future leaders in all walks of life. The cricket programme has historically been the embodiment of this aim. With a simple philosophy delicately balanced between

enjoyment and performance they aspire to develop international cricketers and outstanding young men

Cultural cricketers PG Wodehouse (writer, above)

What sets the school apart?

Elizabeth College desires to provide every student the opportunity to experience the camaraderie that goes hand in hand with the game of cricket Recent progress 1st XI went unbeaten in the men’s bowl competition winning the league and cup final. 1st XI Old Elizabethans team won nine of the 12 games in the Guernsey Premiership League. Future plans Redevelopment of the net area at College Field making it a three-lane facility is underway. They are also reverting back to a full grass square enabling the boys to play cricket on grass from year five in the junior school onwards. In 2023 Elizabeth College aims to expand the number of schools they bring to the islands to expose our students to as much cricket as possible and for UK schools to take advantage of the amazing cricketing facilities and water based activities

Tours Teams are heading to Canada in 2023 and then Sri Lanka in 2024

ELLESMERE COLLEGE

Ellesmere, Shropshire SY12 9AB

Established 1879

Number of pupils 550

Master in charge Gareth Owen Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB, U13, U12, U11, U10, U9. Girls: Seniors, U15, U14, U13, U12, U11, U9. Mixed: U13, U12, U10, U9 Girls’ cricket Cricket for Girls initiative builds interest, participation and skills. The school enters various competition and teams play over 30 matches. Di erent formats are utilised, like pairs cricket. Girls play in the boys teams and there are combined practice sessions and mixed softball matches against other schools. The winter programme starts in September with indoor matches and small group coaching and open invitation lunchtime sessions Post-pandemic changes Introduction of Ellesmere College powerplay cricket awards, focusing on individual player development

Fixtures More than 100 matches are played, including against Shrewsbury

School, Bromsgrove School and Merchant Taylors’. Adult sides MCC, Shropshire Gentlemen and Free Foresters are the opponents in an end of year festival

Facilities Three grass squares, one artificial square, 12 grass nets, six outdoor artificial nets, six indoor halls, junior and senior bowling machines Club/county a liation Shropshire Cricket Board, Sta ordshire Cricket Board, North Wales

Best prospect Georgia Munro has played for Wales and been selected for Western Force Academy. Oliver Moore has played for Sta ordshire U18s, Ben Wright is part of the EPP Cheshire Cricket Programme and Charlie Boys is in the EPP Wales Cricket Programme

Cricketers of note Ben Gibbon (Worcestershire CCC), Dewi Penrhyn-Jones (Glamorgan)

Brief history Ellesmere College was

opened in 1884 and dedicated to St Oswald. It was Nathaniel Woodard’s seventh school. At the time the Sub Dean of Manchester Cathedral, Canon Woodard’s religious principles were central to the philosophy of his Anglican school’s foundation. The Woodard Foundation educates over 30,000 pupils across academy, independent and state-maintained schools providing high quality education in an actively Christian environment

Cultural cricketers Hugh Grosvenor (Duke of Westminster), Sir Bill Beaumont (England rugby, World

Rugby chair) What sets the school apart? Being considered the national home of indoor cricket since 1970-71. Shropshire and Sta ordshire use the facilities for training throughout the winter and matches during the summer

Finest moment on the field Regional Champions (midlands) and semi-finalists of the National U14 ESCA and ECB 2015 National Competition. Reaching Under-15 Lady Taverners National Indoor Finals in 2013 and HMC T20 last 16 in 2016

Recent progress Continued evolving of the calendar to include di erent formats amid pressures from other activities. These include timed games, 20-50 over matches and softball kwik cricket pairs

Future plans To give more access to local clubs and update bottom square and main pavilion

EMANUEL SCHOOL

Battersea Rise, London SW11 1HS

Established 1594

Number of pupils 1,050 Master in charge Chris Booth Professional Mark Stear (Berkshire), Wayne White (Derbyshire, Leicestershire)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABCD, U12ABCD, U11ABC. Girls: U18, U17, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABCD, U12ABCD, U11ABC

Post-pandemic changes Cricket has returned with great enthusiasm and engagement. Students can

attend morning and after school pre-season sessions, which helps to consolidate and develop new skills ahead of the summer term Fixtures The boys 1st XI play 15 fixtures and other A teams play between 10-14 dependent on cup success. Schedule is mirrored for the girls, while there are mixed fixtures for year six students

Facilities Emanuel operates over two sites. The main school has a senior and junior square. The Blagdons site has one senior square and space for four softball cricket pitches. Additionally, there are four newly renovated outdoor astroturf nets, a portable net for middle practice &

four indoor nets Club/county a liation Spencer CC, Wimbledon CC, Shepherds Bush CC, ACE Programme Best prospect Meg Radford is a bowling allrounder involved in the Surrey performance programme. Left-arm swing bowler Daisy Perry and Flora Rogers, a hard-hitting allrounder, are also in the Surrey system. Top-order batter Felix Cole plays for the 1st XI and Lucas Graham is a Surrey Under-12 wicketkeeper/ batter

Cricketers of note Stuart Surridge (Surrey), Ian Payne (Surrey and Gloucestershire), Izzy Cannon (England U15, U17, U19), Nancy Hughes (Middlesex)

Brief history The first recorded captain of cricket Mr J Wheater (Master) was appointed in 1891. The school has had a long association with the Surrey and London Cup competitions, girls’ cricket is now an

established core sport, leading to regularly challenging for county and regional honours

Cultural cricketers His Royal Highness Abdul-Hakeem (nephew of the Sultan of Brunei), Tom Smith (Scotland/British and Irish Lions rugby), Will Serocold, Dom Tripp (both England touch rugby), Stuart Hinton (snooker)

What sets the school apart?

The beautiful main school site has walled grounds in central London, just minutes away from Clapham Junction. Several high-level games, including most recently a Sri Lankan Unity U19 XI v Trinity Schools’ Select XI, have been played at the school. Finest moment on the field Multiple Surrey and London Cup titles. In 2022, five sides reached at least the semi-finals across both Surrey and London Schools competitions

Future plans Renovation of o site sports ground, Blagdons Tours Under-13 and 14 trip to Birmingham and Nottingham in 2022 and senior tour to Europe in summer 2023

Professional Wayne White

Master in charge Gareth Owen

EPSOM COLLEGE

College Road, Epsom, Surrey KT17 4JQ

Established 1855

Number of pupils 1011 Master in charge Damian Shirazi (Hampshire CCC)

Teams There are 24 sides in all across the school, fifteen for the boys while the girls have nine Post-pandemic changes The school has introduced a variety of formats and also placed a greater emphasis on playing more matches.

Fixtures Over a nine-week season teams play in the region of 186 fixtures. MCC, Free Foresters and national competitions are among the chief highlights

Facilities Fourteen outdoor nets, a five-lane cricket-only indoor facility and six on-site cricket squares Club/county a liation Surrey CCC, Ashtead CC, East Molesey CC, Banstead

ETON COLLEGE

Windsor, Berkshire SL4 6DW

Established 1400 Number of pupils 1,300 Master in charge Tim Roberts (Northamptonshire, Lancashire)

Professional Richard Montgomerie (Sussex, Northants)

Teams There are 26 sides across Under-14, Under-15, Under-16 and the seniors. In addition, there are 35 junior and senior house teams How has cricket bounced back Participation has only grown stronger since the pandemic

Fixtures There are in excess of 365 external school matches while internally there are more than 100 matches in inter-house competitions Facilities 12 turf grounds, eight astro grounds, 12 astro nets and four cages for grass practice. There is also a new four-lane indoor school Club/county a liation Eton has fostered relationships with Slough CC, Datchet CC and Berkshire CCC and has hosted eight-a-side outreach tournaments for local state schools

CC, Esher CC, Epsom CC

Best prospect Harry Porter has played for the Surrey 2nd XI as an Under-17. Keira Johnson is also part of the Surrey setup

Cricketers of note Nat Sciver, Alice Davidson-Richards (England, Surrey and Kent, below), Samuel Wright (Leicestershire), Harold Pretty (Surrey) Harold Heygate, Reginald Heygate (Sussex), A Grace (Gloucestershire), Don

Bennett (Middlesex)

Brief history Epsom has had a long and detailed love a air with cricket. Having initially been played by one open side picked across the college the game has developed over the years with a full and prestigious fixture card in place.

The facilities have also developed considerably over time as the number of England and county-standard players increases. Full-time cricket professionals have often overseen the progress of pupils and to this day

cricket plays a huge part in Founders Day celebrations in late May

Cultural cricketers Jonny Maitland (playwright)

What sets the school apart?

Epsom has a good reputation for the development of county age group players in the area. Further, they are Under-14/Under-15 county champions and Under-13 finalists

Finest moment on the field Alumni Sciver and Davidson-Richards scoring Test centuries for England against South Africa during the 2022 summer

Recent progress The addition of the first schools girls 1st XI. Epsom College either won or got to the final in four boys and girls county cup competitions. The number of available squares has also recently increased

Future plans A new state of the art outdoor practice system is in the process of being installed. Plans are also afoot to expand the use of live streaming across the school Tours In April 2023, a boys Under-15 and girls 1st XI side are heading to the UAE

BJT Bosanquet invented the googly in 1897. Several college alumni have gone on to captain England including Lord Harris, Lord Hawke, Gubby Allen and George Mann. More recently, Eton have won the Lord’s Taverners National Cup on five occasions at Under-15 level (1994, 2001, 2006, 2007, 2019), while the Under-17s claimed the National Cup in 2022

Cultural cricketers Bernard Bosanquet (philosopher) What sets the school apart?

Eton has an unrivalled history and association with cricket and can boast huge numbers in terms of participation in internal and external matches

Best prospect Eton can boast more than 300 cricketers in the school who show promise and love for the sport, and with a good track record of producing first-class players are confident many will graduate from the programme and go on to have a career in cricket Cricketers of note Gubby Allen (England, Middlesex, MCC), Henry Blofeld (Cambridge University, later journalist and commentator),

Matthew Fleming (England, Kent), Alex Loudon (England, Kent, Warwickshire), James Bruce (Hampshire), Ivo Bligh (England, Kent)

Brief history The first recorded game of cricket at Eton took place in 1730 and the sport is woven in the college’s history. The famous Lord’s match against Harrow was first staged in 1805 and remains part of the calendar for 2023. Aged 20,

Recent progress The college is proud with the manner cricket has rebounded since the pandemic in terms of participation, performance and enjoyment amid the pressure of exams

Future plans Renewed work is going into building partnerships with clubs. Plans are afoot to build a new sports centre which will cater for far more winter cricket and lead to an increase in participation

FELSTED SCHOOL

Felsted, Dunmow, Essex CM6 3LL

Established 1564

Number of pupils 550 Master in charge Jason Gallian (Essex, Nottinghamshire, England)

Professional Nick Lockhart Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15AB, U14AB. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U14/U15AB

Post-pandemic changes The East Anglia competition has been introduced with six schools involved for both boys and girls, engaging pupils across the area in a variety of formats

Fixtures The 19 matches played by boys are highlighted by the MCC game and the National T20 competition, which are also the standout matches of the 13 fulfilled by the girls

Facilities Four grass squares, 10-lane non-turf pitch net system, two NTP pitches and a five-lane indoor facility Club/county a liation Essex CCC, Sunrisers, Lord’s Taverners

Best prospect Monty Copper is part of the Essex Under-18s while Jess Olerenshaw is plays for Essex Women and is a member of Sunrisers Academy

Cricketers of note Johnny Douglas (England and Essex), Derek Pringle (Essex and England), John Stephenson (Essex, Hampshire and England), Nick Knight (Essex, Warwickshire and England), Tim Phillips (Essex), Elliot Wilson (Worcestershire), Jordan Cox (Kent),

Will Buttleman (Essex), Poppy Timson (Essex), Grace Poole (Essex), Emma Jones (Essex and Southern Stars)

Brief history First cricket field at the school was established in 1805 by former headmaster WJ Carless, with the sport having been played at Felsted for over 200 years. The main ground ‘The Front’ is the only school ground overlooked by a beer garden called the Chequers. In 2014, a cricket match was staged as part of the 450th anniversary celebrations

Cultural cricketers Johnny Douglas won boxing Olympic gold at London 1908

What sets the school apart?

The school has a long and decent history of producing first-class and international cricketers

Finest moment on the field Crowned National T20 champions in 2004 and 2005. Girls became Under-15 indoor and outdoor national champions in 2017. Girls 1st XI were national champions in 2019

Recent progress Entry into the East Anglia league for both boys and girls, rapid development of girls cricket and introduction of live streaming and online scoring

Future plans The continuation of the growth of the independent school league, in the hope of creating healthy competition in the area and involve a lot more girls and boys in a variety of formats

Tours Girls teams went to Spain in 2022 and the boys are bound for Australia in 2024

FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE

College Road, Framlingham, Su olk IP13 9EY

Established 1864

Number of pupils 650 Master in charge Jack Beaumont (Su olk CCC)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17 Cup XI, Albert XI, Junior 1st XI, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABCDE, U11ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, Albert XI, Junior ABC, U13ABCD, U11ABC. Mixed: U9ABCDE

Girls’ cricket Players have represented Norfolk, Su olk, Essex, Northamptonshire and Sunrisers. School also runs a girls-specific winter cricket programme including group and one-on-one sessions Post-pandemic changes The winter programme involves individual and group sessions in the sports hall and includes capture of sessions on video. Framlingham have linked up with three local colleges and a school for an end of season festival Fixtures The 1st XI and Under-14s play a combined 130 matches, while 280 are fulfilled from Under-13 to under-9 level. Notable games include Cambridge University, MCC men and Women, Gentlemen of Su olk, Gentlemen of England and the XL Club

Facilities Seven indoor nets, two sports halls, eight artificial nets, 12 grass nets, 13 pitches, Flicx wicket Club/county a liation

Northamptonshire CCC, Su olk County Cricket Club and Su olk Cricket Board, Easton CC & Yoxford Ladies, Essex CCC, Somerset CCC, Worcestershire CCC, Sunrisers, South East Stars

Best prospect Jayden Borges is a batter and spinner playing age

group cricket for Norfolk. Hollie and Poppy Dring-Richardson are exciting allrounders while Sophie Singer and Loulou Ford are playing age group county cricket for Su olk and Nortolk respectively. Percy Moore starred in the U17s Cricket Paper National Cup Cricketers of note David Larter (Northants & England), Ashley Cowan (Essex & England tourist), Robert Newton (Northants), Herbert Wilson (Sussex), Freddie Heldreich (Northants)

Brief history Cricket was the first sport to be played at Framlingham College in 1865. Regular school fixtures have followed alongside prestigious matches featuring Kenya, Pakistan Under-25s and Gloucestershire CCC. The college sta contains five players with firstclass or 2nd XI experience

Cultural cricketers Ed Sheeran (singer), Charlie Simpson (singer) Laura Wright (classical singer), Rt Hon Sir James Paice (politician), Keito Okamota (model and singer) What sets the school apart? The college is rooted in the community, with local sides making use of facilities during the winter and from July onwards

Finest moment on the field Johnny Newton being given detention by the Headmaster for reverse-sweeping Ray East for six v MCC in 1992

Recent progress Adding a Merlyn bowling machine during the winter and investing in equipment to live stream main square matches

Future plans Expansion of fixture list into autumn term, appointment of a new head of grounds, redevelopment of outdoor net area and hosting the MCC Foundation Hub

Tours Boys and girls 1st XIs (Holland). Under-18 ARCH Trophy (United Arab Emirates)

GEORGE WATSON’S COLLEGE

69 Colinton Road, Edinburgh, Scotland EH10 5EG

Established 1741

Number of pupils 2,300 Master in charge Neil McCallum (Scotland)

Professional Oli Hairs (Scotland)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB, U11AB, U10 (training only). Girls: U18, U15, U13AB, U12AB

Post-pandemic changes The college has more pupils than ever before playing cricket, leading to them embarking on getting more fixtures for the younger age groups and especially the girls

Fixtures The 1st XI play 18 matches each summer with the most notable being the annual meeting with MCC Facilities Four grass wicket squares, two artificial wickets, 10 artificial nets and four indoor nets Club/county

a liation Over 30 pupils from local state schools attend an MCCF hub each winter and benefit from the programme. The school runs an Outreach Programme through a local charity called Sport Start, which pays for a coach to deliver sessions in seven local schools over 10 weeks and the programme covers over 300 pupils. Pupils then attend a further session on a Friday after school and are invited to a local clubs

summer camps too. In the winter the Watsonian CC set up an academy that takes some of the school pupils for early morning sessions developing players batting, bowling, fielding and game plans

Best prospect Fourteen-year-old allrounder Gabriella Fontela is already part of Scotland Under-19 squad Cricketers of note Neil McCallum, Dewald Nel (below), Ewan Chalmers, Alastair Evans, Sarah and Kathryn Bryce (all Scotland)

Brief history George Watson’s College is one of the largest singlecampus schools in the UK. Founded in 1741, it is one of Scotland’s leading independent schools, and is widely renowned for its sporting excellence. In 2015, the school won all three major Scottish sporting competitions in rugby, boys hockey and cricket, the first school to do so. Cricket is a key feature of the school’s curricular and extra-curricular programme

Finest moment on the field Winning the Scottish Schools T20 Cup in 2015 and 2022

What sets the school apart?

Pupils have access to great facilities, not to mention several ex-international and professionals on the coaching sta

Future plans A new square is potentially being laid with hybrid pitches in 2023 Tours School festival in Norfolk with Gresham’s School, Birkenhead and Hampstead UCS. In February 2023, 28 players will go on a winter tour to play 10 matches in Barbados

HABERDASHERS’ BOYS’ SCHOOL

Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Radlett, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF

Established 1690 Number of pupils 1,137 Master in charge Dan Kerry Professional James Hewitt (Middlesex CCC, Kent CCC) Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U15ABCD, U14ABCD, U13ABCDE, U12ABCDEF Girls’ cricket Despite being an allboys school, coaching opportunities are o ered from the sibling school next door, with more than 30 attending and some playing for the boys teams Post-pandemic changes Following on from internal franchise style cricket in September and April, a cricket academy for selected players in Year 12 and 13 has been introduced during pupils’ timetabled enrichment lessons. The sessions included S&C, skill development, nutrition, sports psychology and tactics. Hope is for it to be extended to Year 11 in 2022

Fixtures Typically more than 250 scheduled from year seven to year 13. Berkhamsted, Haileybury, Magdalen College School, MCC, Merchant Taylors’, St Albans, Exeter School and Devon CCC punctuate the calendar Facilities Three grass squares all with covers, two astro wickets, five grass nets and one ‘open’ net, four fully enclosed astro nets, five other astro nets. Two lanes in well-equipped indoor centre, including fixed instant replay and video analysis system

Club/county a liation Middlesex CCC, Hertfordshire CCC, Radlett CC, Exeter CC, Sidmouth CC

Best prospect Atharv Sharma is a left-arm spinner and top-order batter and represents Middlesex U12s

Cricketers of note Richard Yeabsley (Middlesex CCC), Tom Colverd (Cambridge MCCU)

Brief history Doug Yeabsley, the former Devon left-arm swing bowler, was involved with cricket at the school since the 1960s and in 2014 celebrated his 50th year at Habs. He introduced the annual Devon tour and organised the highly successful Far East tours (to Hong Kong and Malaysia). Both his sons, Michael and Richard, played for Habs with distinction. In 1998, now Daily Mirror cricket correspondent Dean Wilson was the leading run-scorer in school cricket throughout the country Finest moment on the field Beating St Albans in the final over of a two-day game in the 2022 summer. In 2015, played Merchant Taylors’ on the Nursery Ground at Lord’s. The previous year, Tom Colverd and Will Wright both scored centuries against Devon U17s as part of an opening partnership worth 248

Future plans Introduction of cricket scholarships at 13-plus and 16-plus from September 2022, installation of new grass nets, further development of fixture calendar and improvement of link with Middlesex CCC

Tours Rescheduled 1st XI and development XI tour to India, which is due to include training and playing at the Rajasthan Royals Academy in Nagpur. Continuation of annual Devon tour

HABERDASHERS’ MONMOUTH SCHOOLS

24 Hereford Road, Monmouth, Wales NP25 5XT

Established 1614

Number of pupils 1,200 Master in charge Callum Bassett-Jones

Professional Steve James (Glamorgan, England), Andrew Jones (Glamorgan), James Boiling (Surrey, Durham, England A)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, 12ABC. Girls: 1st XI U15, U13, U11

Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket has been running for the last five years, with a programme throughout the winter of 2021/22 and girls’ only sessions on Saturdays before the start of the season. Seven junior girls have been selected for Cricket Wales junior squads this summer, ranging from Under-13s to Under-15s Post-pandemic changes Many of the adaptations brought in for the pandemic have continued. There is now greater input from the

HAILEYBURY

Hertford Heath, Hertfordshire SG13 7NU

Established 1862

Number of pupils 900 Master in charge Rupert Kitzinger (Dorset, MCC)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABC, U14ABCD U13ABCDEF. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15A, U14AB, U13ABC U12ABC

Girls’ cricket Izzy Collins of Sussex and previously of Southern Vipers leads the girls programme after being appointed assistant director of cricket Post-pandemic changes Fixtures have continued in September, as has

senior school cricket programme into coaching prep-aged children. Introduction of early morning programme has continued Fixtures More than 130 matches across the age groups including two-day fixture against Solihull and four-team 100-ball Welsh Schools Day competition at Sophia Gardens alongside Kimbolton, New Hall and Victoria College, Jersey. Malvern College and Bromsgrove School are also standout opponents

Facilities Five grass squares, one artificial match wicket, five grass nets and a bay of six artificial nets Club/county a liation Glamorgan CCC, Monmouth, Abergavenny, Llanarth, Usk, Chepstow, Wormelow, Brockhampton, Newport

Cricketers of note Steve James (England, Glamorgan), Reuben Spiring (Worcestershire, England Under-19s), Jeremy Lawlor (Glamorgan, Ireland Wolves), Andrew Jones (Glamorgan), Huw Waters (Glamorgan, England Under19s), Kyle Tudge (Glamorgan), Keith Jarrett (Glamorgan), Tony Jorden (Essex, Cambridge University), Alec Davies (Surrey and Scotland)

Brief history Although the schools were founded in 1614, the first mention of cricket was in The Monmothian magazine in 1882. The pitches, just across the River Wye, are picturesque, overlooked by the Kymin hill above and with stunning views stretching down the Wye Valley. Sonny Avery (Essex), became the first

cricket professional at school in 1960, with Graham Burgess (Somerset) taking over in 1980. The dedication of both men helped win the Barclays Bank Schools Cricket Cup in 1983

Cultural cricketers Anu Mohindru (KC), Eddie Butler (Wales rugby, commentator), Hallam Amos (Wales and Cardi rugby), Lord Moynihan (rowing)

What sets the school apart?

Glamorgan chief executive Hugh Morris described Monmouth as the “premier cricket school in Wales” and partnership with the first-class county remains close. Coaching team are bathed in senior experience

Finest moment on the field Under17s winning the Barclays Bank Schools Cricket Cup in 1983

Recent progress Young players recently coached children at two primary schools in Pembrokeshire during three-day tour. 2nd XI T20 matches on Friday evenings have also been popular

Future plans New relationship with Cricket Wales women and broadening use of live streaming programme

a successful pre-season festival in April for 1st XI, Under-15s and Under-13s Fixtures Around 250, including an annual two-day fixture with Cheltenham. Both boys and girls play MCC on speech day in front of 2,000 spectators

Facilities Seven-lane permanent outdoor net facility, five roll-on cages, three indoor nets, eight squares, Merlyn bowling machine and NV Play live-stream Club/county a liation Sunrisers, Herts WCCC, Middlesex, Kent, St Margaretsbury, Hoddesdon & Broxborne CCs

Best prospect Harry Seagrave is a 17-year-old left-arm spinner who debuted for Middlesex 2nd XI in 2021 Cricketers of note Sam Billings (England, Kent, Oval Invincibles), Maharajkumar of Vizianagram (India) Brief history The game between Haileybury and Cheltenham began in 1893 and was played at Lord’s every year until 1968. The annual match continues today in the form of a two-day game. The fact-filled book Haileybury Cricket written by David Rimmer maps Haileybury cricket from the beginning, including team lists and photos. The book is held in the historic pavilion, a listed building, designed by Reginald Bloomfield Cultural cricketers Jamie George (British & Irish Lions, England,

Saracens rugby), Nick Isiekwe (Saracens rugby), Oscar Piastri (F1), Clement Attlee (prime minister) What sets the school apart?

Haileybury upholds a fine tradition in producing top-class cricketers, as well as many recreational cricketers, all of whom are brought up to play the game in the appropriate spirit. They run a sporting exchange with Cape Town where two of the XI travel in January for a term. Pre-season festivals are hosted in April with local counties and strong school opposition, as well as for local boys and girls prep schools

Finest moment on the field Chasing down 308 to beat Stamford in 2016 and then 283 against Cheltenham

Future plans Plans continue for a six-lane bespoke indoor cricket centre. Hybrid wickets will be new for 2023 and further coaching expertise is being sought to enhance the current structure

Tours Senior boys tour to Cape Town in 2023, and a girls equivalent to Dubai. Under-14s will again head to Jersey

Master in charge Rupert Kitzinger

HAMPTON SCHOOL

Hanworth Road, Hampton TW12 3HD

Established 1556

Number of pupils 1,230 Master in charge Ami Banerjee Professional Chris Harrison Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U16A, U15ABCD, U14ABCD, U13ABC, U12ABCD Post-pandemic changes The Hampton Cricket Academy runs through all three terms, with all pupils given online fitness training programmes and technical drills. The school also provides one-to-one sessions via video. Squad training sessions include skill development and classes around tactical awareness Fixtures Hampton play 190 fixtures each year; the 1st XI play 24, including declaration games, 50-over matches and a two-day game. They also enter the National T20 Cup. Notable fixtures are Eton, Harrow and MCC Facilities Hampton have six indoor nets, seven outdoor Astro nets, seven grass wickets and one Astro wicket.

They also possess three outdoor grass wickets for training with cages; the indoor facility is used throughout the year and has six nets and a space for indoor game Club/county a liation They have strong links with Surrey, Middlesex and Hampshire; the school’s coaches liaise with counties regarding the training programmes of the boys involved Cricketers of note Zafar Ansari (England, Surrey), Toby RolandJones (Middlesex, England), Blake Cullen (Middlesex)

Brief history Cricket started at Hampton in 1874 and in the century since has cultivated a programme that has produced a number of professional and international cricketers. They have been running

allrounder scholarships for some time, showing its ambition to improve the overall standard of sports Cultural cricketers Daniel Pemberton (film composer), Brian May (Queen guitarist), Ollie Stanhope (paralympian), Patrick Aryee (TV presenter) What sets the school apart? The school prides itself on an extensive winter all-round coaching programme with high-class technical advice – provided by former firstclass cricketers – on coaching based on strong basics to make sure players develop at their own pace. They also play indoor league in order to adapt any match situations scenario Finest moment on the field The school counts among its finest

moments reaching the final and the quarter-final of the National T20 in 2005 and 2010. The 1st XI reached the quarter-final of the National T20 in 2022, while in the same summer the U12 and U15 teams reached the final of the Middlesex Cup

Recent progress In the past 12 months, Hampton have seen a huge number of boys participating in cricket at all age-groups, not only in matches but also in nets during their lunchtime or after school

Future plans They hope to build a new sports building with an indoor cricket centre containing six lanes Tours Hampton run a pre-season tour every two years, with a plan to take its senior cricketers to the UAE next year

HARROW SCHOOL

5 High Street, Harrow HA1 3HP

Established 1872

Number of pupils 830

Master in charge Johnny Marsden

Director of cricket Mark Ramprakash (Middlesex, Surrey, England)

Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, 6th XI, U16ABC, U15ABCDEF, U14ABCDEF

Fixtures Harrow o er circa 250 fixtures for all age-groups and abilityranges throughout the summer term, including more than 20 at 1st XI level Facilities The school has a two-lane purpose-built indoor school, eight artificial and four grass outdoor nets, together with nine grounds that are exclusively used for cricket and are all served by pavilions. They have access to BOLA and Merlyn bowling machines, Pitch Vision and QuickScore scoreboards

Club/county a liation Harrow partner with their local community to share facilities and have independent and state-school fixtures on their fixture card. They are an MCC Foundation Hub, helping cricketers who don’t have access to training facilities develop their game. They also o er training facilities and pitches to local men’s and women’s clubs in the Middlesex leagues throughout the summer holidays. Harrow have partnerships with both Middlesex and Surrey Cricketers of note Robbie White (Middlesex), Sam Northeast (Hampshire, Kent, Glamorgan, Notts), Gary Ballance (Yorkshire, England), Nick Compton (Middlesex, Somerset, England)

Brief history The first recorded match in 1805 gained publicity from the presence in the Harrow team of the poet, Byron, though he was no cricketer. Harrow has extended its fixture list and it now has 21 teams that play every week of the summer term Cultural cricketers Lord Byron (poet), Sir Terence Rattigan (playwright)

What sets the school apart?

Harrow’s cricket fields are not used for any other sport throughout the year and so are in fantastic condition every summer. The addition of Ramprakash is a major fillip; the former England batter is also Middlesex’s batting coach, and he works alongside Marsden – a handy club player himself – to run the programme

Recent progress Harrow have been heartened by their increased fixture card for the 5th XI, 6th XI and U14/ U15 E and F sides. Many of their pupils start playing the game once they join Harrow, so to o er them between six and eight games each season has been seen as a major development Future plans There are plans to continue expanding their work with the local community, using cricket to connect with and serve the local area. A new purpose-built sixlane indoor cricket school is in the planning stage, as are 10 new outdoor grass nets

Tours They toured Cape Town prior to the pandemic and are set to travel to Sri Lanka at the end of 2022

HUDDERSFIELD NEW COLLEGE

New Hey Road, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire HD3 4GL

Established 1958

Number of pupils 2,450 Head of cricket Peter Lombard Professional Dave Weston Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI

Girls’ cricket Not yet, but the school is trying to change that – student Lucy Lindley (right) played for Yorkshire in 2022

Post-pandemic changes

The school have gone into primary schools where all players delivered coaching for youngers kids. They also held mini-cricket festivals to get more kids into the game. The school has also introduced lunchtime net sessions

Fixtures 15 games across two teams, including a fixture against MCC Facilities The Sports Barn

features two professional-surface net lanes, while the sports hall includes four nets. They play their home matches at Stainland CC Club/county a liation The school has used Stainland for its home matches since its senior team folded. The school holds junior events throughout the summer that are run by students. They also run the Huddersfield Tavs programme at the college, where U9 to U17 agegroups use their facilities

Best prospect Harry Finch, Noah Priestley and Matthew Weston are on EPP contracts at Yorkshire. Lindley is a seamer and batter – she featured for Yorkshire this season and is on the Diamonds academy Cricketers of note Ben Birkhead (Yorkshire), Hollie Armitage (Northern Diamonds)

What sets the school apart?

Huddersfield New College students have cricket included in their education timetable. They train three times a week, along with their summer fixtures. Plus, all cricketers get their CSW qualification by the time they graduate, which gives them a headstart if they choose to move into coaching Finest moment on the field They were AoC T20 Cup winners in 2012 and 2021. Four years ago, Ben Balmforth represented MCC Schools at Lord’s while a student at Huddersfield New College. Ben Cli made his England Under-19 debut and went to the World Cup in the

Caribbean this year

Recent progress As well as simply being happy to be back playing after the di culties thrown up by the coronavirus pandemic, there is plenty of pride in seeing Weston and Cli earn EPP contracts with Yorkshire, and Lindley making it into Northern Diamonds’ academy squad

Future plans The school were proud of having three boys and one girl in the Yorkshire set-up for the summer season of 2022

Tours Huddersfield are o to Desert Springs for six days in April 2023 to train and play against other schools in a tournament

HaileyburyUK

HURSTPIERPOINT

COLLEGE

College Lane, Hurstpierpoint, Hassocks, West Sussex BN6 9JS

Established 1849 Number of pupils 850 in the senior school

Head of cricket James Anyon, Matthew Reynolds (head of girls’ cricket)

Professionals Mark Nash – cricket professional

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABCD. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB

Girls’ cricket Matthew Reynolds heads up the girls’ section, and they play games both midweek and at the weekend

Post-pandemic changes The school now runs a senior cricket option for promising players that runs alongside the winter sports

Fixtures On average, the first team plays close to 20 fixtures per year, with 150 annual matches for boys’ and girls’ cricket, including flagship games against the MCC for both the boys’ and girls’ teams

Facilities Hurstpierpoint currently has five grass-wicket grounds, the fifth of which was recently added, as well as four artificial pitches, fifteen outdoor artificial nets, six grass practice wickets on the edge of the main square and

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Hurstpierpoint College’s inclusion in The Cricketer’s Schools Guide is seen as a benchmark of quality for its growing cricket programme.

Hurstpierpoint is located within a hotbed of cricketing schools in East and West Sussex, and boasts what is believed to be the longest schools cricket week in the country – a run which now stands at 102 consecutive years.

Its cricket coaching is headed by James Anyon, formerly of Sussex and Warwickshire, who thinks the competitive nature of schools cricket in the region is driving each to improve at an accelerated rate.

“[Being included in the guide] is something we always aim for. We seem to attract good players which always helps but the mantra of the school is to include everyone of all abilities.

six indoor lanes in the sports hall Club/county a liation Hurstpierpoint sponsor Blackstone, where Sussex play much of their second-team cricket Best prospect Middle-order batter and o -spinner Bertie Foreman has performed well for the school and plays regularly for Sussex’s academy team. He has played second XI cricket for Sussex and featured in a pre-season 1st XI fixture Cricketers of note George Garton (Sussex, England Lions), Tom Haines (Sussex), Justin Bates (Sussex), Martin Speight

(Durham, Sussex), Jack Carson (Sussex)

Brief history Although Hurstpierpoint was founded in 1849, it is clear that cricket was played not only when the school was at Shoreham but also at the Mansion House, though there are no written records until the appearance of the Hurst Johnian in 1858. That season, therefore, is the first for which scores survive and for which we have any names. Anyon, the head of cricket, had a successful professional career with Sussex and Warwickshire

Finest moment on the field Hurstpierpoint won the National Schools T20 competition in 2015 and has also won the Woodard Schools Festival in recent years

Recent progress The progression of alumni Garton, Carson and Haines has been a source of pride to the school, while the boys’ 1st XI reached the quarter-finals of the National T20 in 2022, while they also retained the Langdale Trophy

Future plans The new ground under development will provide more space as demand for cricket fixtures continues to increase, with hopes that it will be ready for next season. More coaches will also be in place to deal with the demand for cricket

We give the under-14 D team the same care and attention as we do the first team; we try and secure as many fixtures as we can,” he said.

“Our aim is to help the minority step up to become professional cricketers but also try and encourage the C and D-team players to fall in love with the game and hopefully play for years to come. They will be the backbone of club cricket and keep the game going at grassroots so they are just as important as everyone else.”

The school’s strength in depth with girls has expanded over recent years and Anyon points to the girls’ section enjoying a head start.

“Head of girls’ cricket, Matthew Reynolds, was ahead of the curve by putting a stop to rounders before most other schools had.

Participation grows bigger with every new intake, helped by the joined-up programme in the prep school. We have more girls than boys

in the nets sometimes, which is really promising and great to see.

“Our biggest obstacle is trying to find opposition due to the strength in depth we have [Hurstpierpoint are now looking to introduce D teams across all age groups] but the girls’ game is growing all the time so it won’t be long before other schools are able to match us.

“Going forward, it will be a challenge for all schools to make provision for the sheer volume of games but we manage to find ways around it and wiggle in fixtures for our boys, girls and prep – it is a nice problem to have.”

Hurstpierpoint are now a conveyor belt for producing players ready-made to play professional cricket but this means losing players on Saturdays.

“It’s another nice headache,” Anyon said. “We have Jemima Spence - who plays for the South East Stars, and Daisy Gibb - who is in the Southern Vipers academy, and they are both role models for the girls to look up to and see a pathway through. We might have to become more creative in when we schedule our fixtures.”

Master in charge JamesAnyon

KIMBOLTON SCHOOL

Kimbolton House, Kimbolton, Huntingdon PE28 0EA

Established 1600

Number of pupils co-educational –approximately 750 Master in charge Matt Gilbert (master in charge of boys’ cricket) Professional Alex Tudor (Surrey, Essex & England)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12AB. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14A, U13AB, U12AB Girls’ cricket Although in its early stages at the school, teams enjoy six to eight fixtures per season, a number that is increasing. Teams up to U15level represent the school at softball and hardball cricket, while training is available throughout the winter Post-pandemic changes Kimbolton saw a resurgence in commitment to training and fixtures. Extra teams for the boys’ programme have been added, while the girls’ fixture card continues to grow

Fixtures Approximately 200 fixtures across all age-groups. Kimbolton boys

regularly host MCC and the XL Club.

The 1st XI also features in an annual festival with Monmouth School, Victoria College Jersey and Reed’s School. The girls’ 1st XI played their first representative match against Stamford School in 2022

Facilities Four indoor nets, eight outdoor artificial nets, two covered grass squares with pavilions, three artificial strips, three bowling machines including a Merlyn machine Club/county a liation Strong relationships with Northamptonshire and Huntingdonshire, as well as Kimbolton CC

Best prospect Henry Leigh-Smith is

a tall left-handed fast bowler with the potential to make strides as he moves on to university. Holly Rowbotham took the first five-wicket haul in a girls’ school fixture

Cricketers of note Tom Huggins (Northants)

Brief history In the early part of the 20th century, regular matches were played against Cambridge University colleges. Jack Hobbs was appointed as the school’s cricket professional in the 1930s. He scored his final century in the Sta v Pupils cricket match in the late 1940s. More recently, Charlotte Edwards spent one summer as the school’s professional

Cultural cricketers Tom Parker (Arsenal & England), Harold Abrahams (the school’s athletics coach who inspired Chariots of Fire) What sets the school apart? With a backdrop of Kimbolton Castle and beautiful countryside, the 1st XI square boasts one of the most attractive cricketing venues in the country Finest moment on the field Joshua Smith’s record 11th century for the school was a huge achievement, as was a record 10 pupil entries to individual Wisden statistics during the summer of 2017

Recent progress The school’s stronger cricketers are being supported with the introduction of a development squad training programme led by former England fast bowler Tudor. Regular winter training for girls is a recent addition Future plans Fundraising e orts are ongoing, with the intentions of improving the school’s cricket facilities and further establishing the girls’ programme Tours Kimbolton travelled to Jersey in 2022 for the latest incarnation of the Castle Festival

KING EDWARD VI

SCHOOL, SOUTHAMPTON

Wilton Rd, Southampton SO15 5UQ

Established 1554

Number of pupils 970

Head of cricket Alex Penn

Professional Gregor McKenzie Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABCD, U12ABCD

Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket was introduced three seasons ago, with 1st and 2nd XIs added this year, playing against a mixture of schools and clubs. From eight teams in 2019, they now field 14. Several county-level girls also take part in the boys’ programme Post-pandemic changes The school’s pre-season schedule is now fully mixed with boys and girls training side by side for the first time. More than 330 students play each weekend Fixtures Approximately 130 fixtures per summer, as well as 10 pre-season indoor fixtures. Among the most notable is the U13 Regional Softball Preparatory Schools’ Tournament,

alongside the annual MCC match. One weekend block fixture against Churchers College sees 25 games played on a single Saturday Facilities The school’s main site features a grass square, two net cages, four outdoor all-weather nets and four indoor nets. At Wellington Sports Ground, comprising 33 acres, seven games can be played simultaneously on grass wickets Club/county a liation The school is the o cial education partner for Hampshire CCC, and their indoor

nets are used by the MCC Academy’s Southampton hub, as well as a number of local clubs for preseason training. The Lord’s Taverners also run the Southampton strand of the Wicketz initiative from the school. County performance pathways use the facilities at Wellington during the summer

Best prospect Ben Mayes is a current member of Hampshire’s U14 team, where he is a top-order batter and wicketkeeper

Cricketers of note Joe Weatherley (Hampshire), Simon Francis, John Francis (both Hampshire and Somerset)

Cultural cricketers Sir Edward Penley Abraham (biochemist), Stephen Hammond MP

What sets the school apart? The school is proud of its relationship with Hampshire, hosting age-group county cricket and an U19 match against Jersey in 2019

Finest moment on the field In 2022, the school’s U12, U13, U14 and U15 boys all reached County Cup finals Recent progress The quality, engagement and number of girls representing the school through the cricket programme is a huge source of pride

Future plans The school’s goal is to become the school of choice for talented cricketers in Hampshire. By 2023, the school wants all coaches qualified on the ECB Level 2 course

Tours There are plans for a local junior tour in 2024 to an as yet undecided destination; a senior tour in 2024 will take place in either Sri Lanka or St Lucia

Master in charge

Alex Penn

KING EDWARD’S SCHOOL, BIRMINGHAM

Edgbaston Park Road, Birmingham B15 2UA

Established 1552

Number of pupils 825 Master in charge Lawson Roll Professional Nathan Round (Worcestershire)

Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC Girls’ cricket Although a boys’ school, the sister school – King Edward VI High School for Girls –sends some of its stronger players to training sessions. The girls’ school also uses the boys’ school’s indoor sports centre for regular training sessions and borrows equipment, which has just started this year Post-pandemic changes They have encouraged all sta to use technology and social media on a regular basis to assist in individual player plans

Fixtures The school has 125 scheduled fixtures each summer, on top of Warwickshire Cup games and the Inspiresport U15 National

competition. They also face MCC, among others

Facilities As well as a separate 1st XI ground, they also have three further squares on the main school site. A new sports hall hosts four indoor nets, as does another existing sports centre. There are also four refurbished artificial outdoor nets and three others, as well as four grass nets Club/county a liation The school has an outreach programme, which works alongside local primary schools: during term time they host outreach sessions to some of the most diverse schools across Birmingham. Additionally, they have recently announced the King Edwards foundation project which works

alongside Warwickshire CCC to o er cricket in local primary schools, clubs and community projects. Last year that amounted to work with over 50 schools within Birmingham

Best prospect Sinel Gunarathne, an opening batter, represents Warwickshire Academy and attended the Bunbury Festival

Cricketers of note Mark Wagh (Warwickshire, Nottinghamshire)

Cultural cricketers Enoch Powell (MP), Bill Oddie (actor)

What sets the school apart? The school is proud of its work with primary and junior schools in the city of Birmingham that has grown from sporting sessions centred around

cricket. These sessions are delivered by the cricket professional and PE department, with Warwickshire’s input Recent progress They reached the national rounds of cup competitions against the strongest schools in the country, while individuals have been selected for district, county, EPP and academy programmes across all age-groups. Some are also playing second-team cricket for Warwickshire and at Birmingham league clubs. Worcestershire batter

Jack Haynes has helped with batting masterclasses since 2020

Future plans They are looking to enhance the school’s local community projects, while also seeking to develop the relationship with Warwickshire and the King Edwards foundation project.

Recently, they added local initiatives, including supporting refugees and collecting Ukrainian families that have recently arrived in the UK for social cricket and others sports on Fridays afternoons

Tours There are plans for an under-15 tour of Dubai in 2023 and an under-17 trip to the Caribbean in 2024

KING’S COLLEGE, TAUNTON

South Road, Taunton, Somerset TA1 3LA

Established 1880 Number of pupils 460 Master in charge Rob Woodman (Somerset) - head of cricket Professional Keith Parsons (Somerset)

Teams Boys: 12 teams across all age-groups. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB Girls’ cricket As well as the first team, at under-15 level girls’ cricket is o ered both indoors and outdoors. All girls’ cricket is played in coloured kit Post-pandemic changes The school has introduced more shorter-format cricket into the programme, including a hundred-ball competition. It has been found to engage more participation on a less

time-consuming basis, as well as being enjoyable

Fixtures There are around 100 fixtures each year, including games against MCC – men and women –the Army, Royal Marines, Cardi and Cardi Met Universities, and Somerset Academy Facilities King’s College has an indoor sport performance centre with three indoor lanes, as well as a separate sports hall for indoor cricket. There are also four grass nets on the squares, six outside artificial nets and six cricket pitches Club/county a liation

The school has partnerships with the MCC Cricket Foundation, Somerset CCC and Taunton St Andrews Best prospect Seventeenyear-old Josh Thomas made his Somerset debut in this year’s Royal London Cup Cricketers of note Jos Buttler (England, Somerset, Lancashire), Tom Banton (England, Somerset), Eddie

Byrom (Somerset, Glamorgan), Nathan Gilchrist (Somerset, Kent), Will Smeed (Somerset)

Brief history Cricket at King’s College has always been at the forefront of the school’s traditions. The school was one of the first MCC Foundation Hubs, an initiative which allows local young cricketers to access

its coaching and facilities. King’s Hall is the a liated prep school What sets the school apart? England Lions have trained on the school’s main pitch, while New Zealand have practised at the purpose-build sports performance cricket centre. Few schools have produced more professional cricketers in the last decade Finest moment on the field The school reached the final of the Schools U18 National T20 competition in 2021 and the semi-finals in 2022

Recent progress The Summer Cricket Festival has been reborn after a two-year absence due to Covid, while the school’s winter performance programme is a major source of pride

Future plans The school has plans to add more grass wickets and a new square

Tours The school’s most recent tour was to Dubai and Sri Lanka, with a senior squad and junior squad. They are planning their next major overseas trip, with the 1st XI set to travel to Cape Town

Professional Nathan Round

LANCING COLLEGE

Lancing, West Sussex BN15 0RW

Established 1848

Number of pupils 600

Director of cricket Raj Maru Teams Seven in total for boys and girls, between the ages of 13 and 18 Girls’ cricket The programme is split into juniors (13-15) and seniors (16-18) Post-pandemic changes The school’s programme has gone back to normal following the pandemic. Last year, year groups had to work in bubbles Fixtures The 1st XI plays 18 fixtures per year, including a most notable match against the MCC Facilities The school has six artificial nets and four grass squares outside. The indoor sports hall also has five net lanes Club/county a liation Lancing have strong links with Sussex CCC and the county cricket board, as well as with local clubs in the area. Director of cricket Maru,

who represented Middlesex and Hampshire at first-class level in a long career, also has links at Hampshire, where he spent some time coaching following the end of his playing career. He has played a significant part in the career of Mason Crane, the England legspinner who attended the school Best prospect Hamish K – a thirdformer – is a recipient of the school’s Peter Robinson scholarship Cricketers of note Jonathan Robinson (Surrey), Mason Crane (Hampshire, London Spirit & England), William Fazakerley (Leicestershire); Alice Capsey (England, Surrey, South East Stars & Oval Invincibles)

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Former Hampshire allrounder Raj Maru knows a thing or two about readying players for a career in professional cricket.

Maru, the Lancing College director of cricket, has helped develop the likes of Alice Capsey and Mason Crane, and first arrived at Lancing with a remit to “try to find future England or county players”.

In recent years, however, Maru’s programme has grown and adapted, with an additional focus on providing cricket opportunities for the wider community.

“My role has evolved quite a lot over the last few years. We are trying to throw open our doors and facilities for people to come here and experience how we do things. We want to show that there is cricket for everyone at every level, no matter your background,” Maru said.

“We introduced the Lancing Primary Cup in

Brief history Cricket at Lancing dates back to 1857, where the earliest team was captained by G Woodard, the son of Lancing founder Nathaniel Woodard. Cricket has since become one of the most popular and successful sports at the college, with Crane becoming their first-ever international cricketer in 2017 Cultural cricketers Sir Tim Rice What sets the school apart? Other than the work of Maru, the widely respected director of cricket, Lancing’s reputation as a developer of professional cricketers – with Alice Capsey, the hugely exciting teenage allrounder, a significant feather in their cap. Capsey – a star of The Hundred in 2021 – made her England

the summer - an invitational softball tournament to the state primary schools around Lancing. They come here and they love it; and it helps develop their love and interest in the game. We have lovely playing fields here so for them to come and experience that is great.

“The game is moving forward all the time, which is why we are encouraging more girls to join our girls’ section. It has been more of a challenge trying to get the overseas girls involved but more are joining, which will only increase year on year.”

Underlining Maru’s all-encompassing programme is the Lancing Prep School Academy – an initiative that involves Maru delivering sessions to a small group of up-andcoming cricketers from prep schools.

“It is a selective programme where I assess the players and pick them up if they are good enough. I work and train with them over a couple

debut this summer. The school also o ers two scholarships – one in Year 9 and another in Year 12 – to the most outstanding cricket applicants

Finest moment on the field

Lancing Rovers – a team of Lancing old boys – won The Cricketer Trophy, a prestigious competition played for by alumni from independent schools across the country, in 2019

Recent progress The college has recently set up the Lancing College Primary Schools Tournament

Future plans Lancing plan to increase the number of cricketers at the school through their prep-school academy Tours A joint cricket and netball tour to Barbados is planned for next year

of winters. If they come to Lancing, great; if not, they go away better cricketers. One of the first players involved was a young Alice Capsey, who we picked up aged 10 from Belmont Prep. She came over for a couple of winters, secured a scholarship, did her GCSEs and went on at 16.”

Crane is another success story of Maru; an aspiring leggy who had just been let go by Sussex but came to Lancing knowing Maru was a former leg-spinner at Hampshire.

“Within a year he was playing for Hampshire second team and at 16 or 17, he had made his first-class debut,” Maru said.

“Even if players aren’t quite good enough to move on to that next level, we have the Lancing old boys (Lancing Rovers). Another thing we do is encourage pupils who have left school to join and play. They won The Cricketer Trophy last year and got to the quarter-finals of The Cricketer Cup this year, their debut in the competition.

“At the end of the day, our main priority is to get kids playing cricket, keep the game going, and keeping it alive.”

Master in charge Raj Maru

Lancing College

Senior School & Sixth Form

LORD WANDSWORTH COLLEGE

Long Sutton, Hook, Hampshire RG29 1TA

Established 1912

Number of pupils 650 Master in charge Edward Ikin Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13AB, U12AB. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB

Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket has been played at the school for more than a decade: more than 170 female pupils represented the school at cricket in 2022, a 30 per cent growth on the previous year. The 1st XI took part in a national 100ball competition, reaching the last 16. The team featured players from every yeargroup, from Year 7 to Year 13. Several girls from the school train alongside a local club on the school grounds each week

MAGDALEN COLLEGE, OXFORD

Cowley Place, Oxford OX4 1DZ

Established 1480

Number of pupils 950 Master in charge Chris Boyle

Professional Alan Duncan Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15AB, 14ABC, 13ABC, 12ABC Girls’ cricket It’s o ered in the sixth form, but the school is boys-only until then. Several girls play in the 2nd and 3rd XIs

Post-pandemic changes On the back of The Hundred – and using the format for internal fixtures – the school is trialling it for an U15 festival. They have also kept adaptations designed to speed up the game in lower age-groups, such as bowling from the same end Fixtures The school places roughly 150 matches, including the local derby against St Edward’s Oxford Facilities The school has a five-net indoor facility, including five bowling machines and a Merlyn. There are also five grass nets – soon to be 12,

Post-pandemic changes

The school has o ered advice and training on mental health, managing expectations and diet and nutrition to help their cricketers deal with the lingering e ects of the pandemic

Fixtures The school plays more than 150 fixtures each year, with the highlight a special day when both the boys’ and girls’ 1st XIs take on MCC on adjacent pitches

Facilities The school has eight pitches: five grass squares and three artificial wickets. There are also 12 grass nets, eight artificial nets and a purpose-built sports hall, which contains four indoor nets. Following a feedback session, the school’s girls have their own dedicated pitches

Club/county a liation As well as a longstanding relationship with Odiham & Greywell CC, the school has been used by a local prep school as a training base prior to a tour, for which Ikin – the master in charge – o ered his own assistance. He also runs a weekly masterclass to pupils from local primary school Long Sutton, while the College also donates cricket equipment to a local charity

Best prospect Sam Ru ell is involved in Hampshire’s academy pathway and has also represented their second team; Caitie Croft and Annabella Mitchell play for the Southern Vipers Academy and are part of their elite player programme Cricketers of note Michael Bates (Hampshire)

Cultural cricketers Johnny Wilkinson (rugby)

What sets the school apart?

County age-group cricket is played at the school on the eight pitches that sit among 1,200 acres of Hampshire countryside

Recent progress The school hosted an U13 girls’ cricket festival, which involved over 100 girls. An under-11 festival is to follow. Both are organised by Ikin

Future plans There is a new sports hub in the works, while workshops with local prep schools are continuing. A new year ‘All Stars’ initiative for girls in Years 7 and 8 has been set up for 2023 to increase the popularity of cricket even further Tours The school plans to tour Dubai in 2023 and arrange UK-based tours for boys’ and girls’ teams

four outdoor artificial nets, three separate grounds and six squares Club/county a liation They share successful partnerships with county sides Oxfordshire and Sussex, acting as the hub in Oxfordshire for both the EPP programme and the county pathway. There are several pupils across the school involved with both programmes. The school also enjoys links with local clubs, hosting an U10 tournament each year

Best prospect Julian Laird is an under-15 allrounder, who bowls left-

arm spin and bats in the top order. He is currently part of the Sussex EPP programme and was selected for Bunbury

Cricketers of note Tom Scriven (Leicestershire), Ollie Price (Gloucestershire) and Tom Price (Gloucestershire), James Coles (Sussex)

Brief history Founded in 1480, Magdalen College School was initially set up as a school of the university. In 1894 the school acquired the playing fields now known as School Field, a

unique island setting, accessed by two listed white bridges. The cricket ground is considered one of the most picturesque in England, with the backdrop of punts on the Cherwell, the Botanic Gardens, Magdalen tower and the dreaming spires beyond. The School Field ground is the only island cricket ground in schools cricket

Cultural cricketers Sam Mendes (film director), Jim Rosenthal (sports presenter)

Finest moment on the field Three students made their first-class debuts in the same month (August 2020) for three di erent counties – Tom Scriven for Hampshire, Tom Price for Gloucestershire and James Coles for Sussex

Recent progress Despite concern that Covid would have a lasting e ect on cricket within the school, that hasn’t been the case, with progress across the board

Future plans There are plans for a new net system, housing more grass lanes. In addition, they hope to put in an all-weather wicket for junior sides Tours Two senior squads will tour Sri Lanka next year

Master in charge Edward Ikin

MALVERN COLLEGE

College Road, Malvern, Worcestershire WR14 3DF

Established 1865 Number of pupils 650 Master in charge Mark Hardinges (Gloucestershire)

Professional Hardinges, Noel Brett Teams Boys: 1st XI , 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14

Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket is played at the school, with three teams turning out in fixtures

Post-pandemic changes The cricket provision has returned to normal. Hundred-ball cricket has been added to the programme

Fixtures Malvern pupils enjoy close to 20 matchdays per season, including fixtures against the MCC, Shrewsbury, Harrow, Wellington, Repton, Bradfield and Millfield Facilities As well as six artificial nets

and 16 grass nets – some of which have been newly installed – Malvern also benefit from three separate grounds and an indoor cricket facility Club/county a liation The school work closely with Worcestershire, with many of their cricket scholars involved with either the county’s famed academy or emerging players programme. These involve nets, nutrition, fitness and lectures. Malvern and the county – who are well known for blooding local young talent in their first team – make sure their students are getting the right balance between their cricket and academic work

Best prospect The school have high hopes for Oliver Cox and Rehaan Edavalath, both of whom have signed one-year deals with Worcestershire Cricketers of note Jack Haynes (Worcestershire), Tom KohlerCadmore (Worcestershire & Yorkshire), David Nash (Middlesex), Ben Twohig (Worcestershire), Alex Milton (Worcestershire), Mark Hardinges (Gloucestershire), Roger Tolchard (England & Leicestershire)

Brief history The Senior Turf is a

spectacular ground. Matches were played within 18 months of the school’s foundation in 1865. Players included the seven Foster brothers, who dominated Malvern cricket from 1889. All played for Worcestershire, but RE ‘Tip’ Foster was the most outstanding, and is still remembered for his innings of 287 for England at Sydney on Test debut in 1903/04

Cultural cricketers Lord MacLaurin of Knebworth (former ECB chairman, MCC president)

What sets the school apart? Old Malvernians have won The Cricketer Cup more than any school other than Tonbridge

Finest moment on the field The 1st XI won the National T20 in 2019 and 2021, while they also went unbeaten against school opposition during the 2012 season, winning 12 games in succession. The U15 team won the Lord’s Taverners Cup in 2000

Recent progress The continued progress of girls’ cricket is a significant source of pride, as are improving facilities

Tours There are plans for an U15 and 1st XI tour of Sri Lanka next year

MARLBOROUGH COLLEGE

Bath Road, Marlborough, Wiltshire SN8 1PA

Established 1843

Number of pupils 1,011 Master in charge Mike Bush Professional Mark Alleyne (Gloucestershire & England)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U16ABC, U15ABCD, U14ABCDE. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17 cup team

Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket has been running for seven seasons, with just under 50 participants. A fixture schedule includes Shrewsbury, Rugby, Bradfield and St Edward’s Post-pandemic changes Pupils were forced to take greater responsibility and ownership of their game as part of the virtual programme during the pandemic. The school considers them now to be more aware of selfreflection of their own games Fixtures In 2022, 168 fixtures were scheduled across all teams. The boys’ 1st XI played 21 matches. Until 1972, the Marlborough/Rugby match was a

regular fixture at Lord’s and since then the two schools have played a two-day game against each other annually, alternating the venue home and away Facilities There is a sports hall, which includes five indoor nets, nine grounds, 14 artificial nets, two cages and three bowling machines Club/county a liation Marlborough have links with local clubs Marlborough, Burbage, Avebury and Potterne, and host matches for Wiltshire at agegroup level and for Gloucestershire/ Wiltshire’s EPP. There are pupils involved in five di erent youth pathways Best prospect

Left-handed opener Joe Farndale scored 1,007 runs in the 2022 season,

including three centuries and six fifties

Cricketers of note AG Steel, RH Spooner (both England)

Brief history Dr Cotton, who arrived from Rugby School as master in 1852, gave great encouragement to cricket and by 1855, when the first match between the two schools took place at Lord’s, the main cricket square had been completed

Cultural cricketers

Siegfried Sassoon (poet), Jack Whitehall (comedian), Christopher Martin-Jenkins (broadcaster, journalist)

What sets the school apart?

Marlborough hosted a three-day Women’s Ashes warmup between Australia and England Academy in 2019. They also hosted Wiltshire v Dorset in the NCCA 50-Over Cup in 2022

Finest moment on the field In August 2017, the 1st XI beat Rugby by 25 runs at Lord’s to celebrate the 450th (Rugby) and 175th (Marlborough) anniversaries of both schools

Recent progress Close to 40 Year 13 pupils committed to cricket in their final term and regularly represented the school alongside the pressures of their A Level studies. The Junior Colts 1st XI won the U15 Clark Williams Festival for the second successive year

Future plans A new eight-lane fully covered training hub facility is being built

Tours Following a successful joint tour for boys and girls to South Africa in 2020, there are plans for a senior overseas tour and an U15 preseason tour to Desert Springs in the near future

MERCHANT TAYLORS’ SCHOOL, NORTHWOOD

Sandy Lodge, Moor Park, Northwood, Herts HA6 2HT

Established 1561

Number of pupils 970 Director of cricket Ian McGowan Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U17, U16, U15ABC, U14ABCD, U13ABC, U12ABC

Post-pandemic changes The rejuvenation of the colts’ side has been retained since the pandemic. They play fixtures pre and post exams; it keeps the U16 age-group together during a busy year Fixtures Merchant Taylors’ play block fixtures every Saturday on a competitive circuit in northwest London, also entering Middlesex Cup Competitions at U12, U13, U14, U15 and U19 age-groups. They have played against St Paul’s in every year from 1946, only interrupted by the pandemic, and before that as far back as the 1840s, when they faced one another at The Oval Facilities The school has 12 grass

squares, 10 outdoor artificial nets and 16 grass nets, allowing them to host Sri Lanka, England and Australia for World Cup preparations in 2019. In pre-season, Middlesex train in the school’s purpose-built marquee Club/county a liation The school’s grounds are the home of Middlesex’s age-group sides, while Old Merchant Taylors CC – five Saturday teams, two Sunday teams, more than 100 juniors – are also based at the site. Middlesex faced Worcestershire in the County Championship at the ground in 2022

Best prospect Middlesex academy prospect Aaryan Sawant is a talented batting allrounder at U16 level. He is into his second year on Middlesex’s academy and played at last season’s Bunbury Festival Cricketers of note Ravi Patel (Middlesex)

Brief history In 1933 the school moved to its present location at Sandy Lodge, where its 300-acre site provides ample room for cricket to thrive. In 2015 and 2018, the 1st XI beat Haberdashers’ and Radley on the Nursery Ground at Lord’s. In 2017, the

school won the Under-17 National Schools Cup, and in the last five years twice qualified for the National Under-18 T20 Finals Day at Arundel as South East of England champions What sets the school apart? In recent years – even away from the World Cup – they have hosted several international sides. They employ 10 external professional coaches to support an extensive coaching programme each year Finest moment on the field The U17 side were national cup winners in

2017, beating Shrewsbury in the final, while the 1st XI were national T20 finalists in 2018 and 2019

Recent progress A major reason for the strength of Merchant Taylors’ response to the pandemic was the virtual provision o ered during the lockdown period by the sta

Future plans Work on a brand new state-of-the-art five-lane indoor cricket centre will begin in July

Tours The U15 team will go to Abu Dhabi and Dubai in 2023, with the 1st XI o to Antigua and Barbados

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

With a brand new £4.5m fivelane indoor cricket centre on the horizon, future prospects at Merchant Taylors’ School look exciting.

The project was only made possible thanks to a £1m pledge from old boy Julian Hill.

Director of cricket Ian McGowan is excited about the potential the new facility has for the school’s community.

“As a day school, it gives us huge platform to showcase our ambition for cricket and provides opportunity for all abilities. Hill was a B/C-team cricketer and his donation will help allow us to develop players of his ilk throughout the school

year no matter their level of skill,” he said.

“We do not o er monetary scholarships which means we take real time to invest in player development - the new centre will help provide further opportunity to progress players’ ability.”

Merchant Taylors’ inclusion in this year’s Schools Guide highlights the institution’s prowess.

McGowan is aiming for it to be a regular slot.

“It’s a benchmark for cricket schools in the UK - we are a day school who punch above our weight so it’s testament to our programme that we are included alongside the big powerhouse boarding schools,” he said.

McGowan recognises the importance of combining cricket with academia.

He said: “We had a group of under-18 boys who really bought into the ethos of the school and worked really hard in the winter and reaped the rewards in the summer as a result. Four or five of the lads scored 400-plus runs, which sets the season up nicely.

“We unfortunately had to pull the plug on a tour to South Africa in February but finished the season o with a trip to Desert Springs, which was a lovely way to see the boys o . Six of those boys have played representative cricket at Middlesex, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire, and have gone on to university - where we linked them up with respective local clubs.

“They will probably play club cricket for the next 10-plus years which is a mark of our programme and something we are proud of.”

Director of cricket

Ian McGowan

MILLFIELD

Butleigh Road, Street, Somerset BA16 0YD

Established 1935

Number of pupils 1,280

Director of cricket Mark Garaway Professionals Jack Moore – junior performance coach, Ethan Harris – lead bowling coach, Sam Baird –private coach, Tilly Bond – private coach

Teams 17 age-group teams (13 boys/

4 girls)

Girls’ cricket The girls’ teams have enjoyed National Cup success. Among their fixtures are games against the MCC, Somerset U15/U17 and Wales U17. There are overseas tours every other year

Post-pandemic changes Smallersided games and internal leagues have been retained to support the school’s external match programme. Elements of activities used during the pandemic, such as quizzes, have been kept on in case of wet weather Fixtures 138 fixtures per year, with notable games against the academies and/or age-group sides of Surrey, Somerset, Wales, Worcestershire, Cornwall, Gloucestershire, Glamorgan and Hampshire, as well as an annual MCC match

Facilities An indoor school with five lanes, Pitchvision Technology,

a fielding area with 4G grass, and throwing and bowling walls with speed radars. Outside: 12 grass nets and a four-lane artificial net bay. Three of their six grounds have Pitchvision Match Analysis Systems, which live-stream matches Club/county a liation Associations with 27 counties, states and governing bodies, as well as relationships with local clubs, with five players in county or regional academies. More than 15 pupils play in the Western Premier League, Southern Premier League and South Wales Premier League

Best prospect Dominic Kelly made his Hampshire debut in 2022, becoming their second-youngest first-class cricketer

Cricketers of note Ian Ward (Surrey & England), Kieron Powell (West Indies), Simon Jones (Glamorgan, Worcestershire & England), Craig Kieswetter (Somerset & England), Ben Hollioake (Surrey & England)

Brief history In 2016, Millfield became the first school to hold three national titles at once, repeating the feat in 2018. Eleven pupils have

earned selection for the England Young Lions (U19) over the past nine years. The school hosted England Women v Australia A in a three-day fixture leading into the 2019 Ashes, while England Women have used the school more recently as a training base. In 2018, Millfield hosted the 32nd ECB David English Bunbury Festival. Won the 2021 Cricketer Cup Cultural cricketers Pete Wilson (2012 Olympic shooting gold medallist), JPR Williams (Wales Rugby, British Lions)

What sets the school apart? As well as Garaway’s immense coaching experience, the school’s pitches are renowned for their quality. The indoor cricket centre is also a unique facility for pupils

Recent progress A record number of girls’ fixtures was played in 2022

Future plans The Spin Academy (with former England spin bowling coach Peter Such), Rajasthan Royals’ academy and Ste an Jones’ Pacelab programme all operate out of Millfield Tours Boys’ and girls’ teams will be touring Barbados next year; a girls’ trip to the UAE is in the works

NEW HALL SCHOOL

Avenue Lodge, The Avenue, Boreham, Chelmsford, Essex

CM3 3HS

Established 1642

Number of pupils 1,350

Head of cricket Matilda Callaghan

Professionals Nasser Hussain (Essex & England), Ravi Bopara (Essex, Sussex & England)

Teams boys – U12AB, U13AB, U14AB, U15AB, U17, 1st XI, 2nd XI. girlsU13AB, U14, U15, U17

Girls’ cricket An all-year-round girls’ programme, including junior and senior academies for county players or hopefuls, which feature weekly cricket and gym sessions, guest speakers and one-to-one training during holidays. Winter training for all girls of all ages is also o ered

Fixtures The school plays over 100 fixtures each year, including one against MCC Facilities The school has cricket-specialist groundsta looking after its five pitches, which include one Astro. There are also four Astro nets, as well as six nets on the

Astro pitch. Indoors, there are two nets in the sports hall Club/county a liation As well as working with Essex – Callaghan represents Essex Women – she has also set up a girls’ programme at Billericay CC, into which the school feeds many of its girls

Best prospect Mackenzie Jones is a 1st XI seamer involved in Essex’s academy. During the 2022 season, with the bat, he hit two centuries for the 1st XI Cricketers of note Ronnie McKenna (recent leaver, Essex 2nd XI)

Brief history Despite being a relatively small school by comparison, New Hall have often punched above their weight, winning the County Cup on multiple occasions

What sets the school apart?

Essex Women played their warmup game at the school ahead of the 2022 season. The year-long academy – for boys and girls – includes a personalised gym programme and specialist external coaches. Among them in 2022 was Chris Green, the Australian spinner. Through the holidays, the school also runs cricket camps.

The school has also benefited from having

a female head of cricket, with pupils at times performing the guard of honour at Chelmsford for Essex matches

Finest moment on the field In 2022, the school beat MCC, winning on the penultimate ball of the match, while nine wickets down

Recent progress Cricket has now become a main sport at school for girls, in the process improving club cricketers, getting some onto the county circuit and introducing cricket

to many others, several of whom now play outside of school. There is also plenty of pride in the school’s young 1st XI, which at the start of last summer had seven debutants Future plans Bopara has joined the school as cricket professional Tours Pre-Covid, there was a tour to South Africa, and there are plans for a preseason trip to Spain. Last summer, New Hall went to Dorset ahead of the season

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Having made history by becoming the first woman to play in the top tier of the Surrey Championship, Matilda Callaghan – the New Hall School head of cricket - is no stranger to making an impact.

And Callaghan, who is in her second year in the role, is planning on building big things at New Hall in the future.

in charge MatildaCallaghan

“We’re honoured to be selected as one of the top senior schools and really pleased with how far we have taken the school in one year, and excited to see how much further we can go with it,” she said.

www.newhallschool.co.uk

“We’ve increased girls’ participation by over 200 per cent and overall participation for boys has also increased. We have also introduced our new academy system, with both junior and senior academies running throughout winter with trials for both boys and girls.

“This has really helped with the girls’ programme in particular, who have acted as role models for the girls wanting to aspire to be like their peers. They have set the standards for the girls players and have made cricket cool here at New Hall. We even got the girls involved in creating a design for the new kit, which was a unique opportunity and helped them take on

board ownership and responsibility.”

Callaghan was initially apprehensive about the tender age of the senior team she inherited in September 2021, with most players having been fast-tracked to the 1st XI due to Covid.

She said: “Some of the boys were really young having not played competitive cricket since they were in year seven or eight, but I was really surprised with how well they fared over the season. Our cricket pro is Nasser Hussain or, ‘Mr H’, as the players refer to him, who said they are the best team he has ever seen on or o the field in terms of their fielding and team spirit.”

Not only do the school have Hussain as their visiting cricket pro, they have also recruited Ravi Bopara to a similar role.

The players at New Hall have inspiration all around.

Master

NEWCASTLE-UNDERLYME SCHOOL

Mount Pleasant, Newcastle-underLyme, Sta ordshire ST5 1DB

Established 1874

Number of pupils 809 Director of cricket Matt Dixon Professional Jason Brown (Northants, Nottinghamshire)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U16, U15A, U14A, U13AB, U12AB. Girls: U15A, U14A, U13AB, U12AB

Girls’ cricket The school holds weekly winter sessions from January, while cricket is the main summer sport. Saturday female-only fixtures have been added for U12, U13, U14 and U15 age-groups in a variety of formats. There are regular U18 girls’ sessions, and girls are part of the winter programme Post-pandemic changes O the back of various webinars and nonpractical sessions that ran during the pandemic, the school has continued to run dedicated tactical classroom sessions for teams where they run through game plans and approaches to various scenarios. Alongside

this, each player receives mentorship through the o -season, while they have added a channel for players to express any concerns around their mental health Fixtures There were 110 boys’ fixtures in 2022 and around 30 for girls. Among them is an annual game against the MCC, an end-of-season festival hosted by The King’s School Facilities An indoor sports hall with four nets, three squares, five outdoor artificial nets, three squares across two grounds and two bowling machines Club/county a liation The school has links with the Sta ordshire County Cricket Board, for whom they host county age-group games. They are also developing a partnership with Whitmore CC. The club have utilised the school’s facilities for their winter training programme Bright prospect Leg-spinner Arjun Annamalai plays for Sta ordshire at under-14 level and is in

Worcestershire’s academy

Cricketers of note John Ward (Derbyshire), Grace Potts (Central Sparks)

Brief history Newcastle High School was formed in 1874 and the first recorded fixtures were against Silverdale CC and Whitmore CC in 1880. The school recorded a number of undefeated seasons in the 1950s and 1960s thanks to David Hancock, Stan Evans and Michael Ikin, who all represented Sta ordshire and also John Ward

Cultural cricketers Dan Robson (rugby)

What sets the school apart? The school regularly reach the latter stages of county competitions at all

age-groups. The pavilion situated on Stubbs Field was presented to the school in 1955 by the Old Newcastlian Club in memory of Old Castilians who fell in the Second World War

Recent progress An increase in qualified coaches and one-to-one training opportunities with Brown have been key improvements

Future plans A new sports hall is due to open ahead of the next academic year. The current one will become a hub for school and external practice. There are plans to add further technology to the school’s coaching tools, and strength-and-conditioning suites have been added

Tours The U15 team will tour Sri Lanka in 2023

NORTHAMPTON SCHOOL FOR BOYS

Billing Road, Northampton NN1 5RT

Established 1541

Number of pupils 1,622

Director of cricket Pete Bevan Teams 1st XI, U15, U14, U13AB, U12AB

Girls’ cricket It is o ered in the Sixth Form Post-pandemic changes They formed a recreational cricket group as a result of the popularity of the sport for people who want to take up the game

Fixtures They play 30 fixtures per year, with a match against the MCC the most prestigious on the 1st XI calendar

Facilities The school has a square, which features the Old Pavilion, which doubles as a World War memorial building Club/county a liation The

school has strong links with Old Northamptionians CC, which was formed from old pupils at the school over 100 years ago Bright prospect Jamie Dunk is a Scotland youth international and part of Northamptonshire’s emerging player programme Cricketers of note David Willey (Yorkshire, Northants, England) Brief history Cricket has been played at Northampton School for Boys for many years; the school has been in place since 1541 and there is evidence to suggest that cricket has been played as far back as the 18th century. The school has a rich history of cricket and is a benchmark for stateschool provision. They feel that there are few schools in the country who o er their provision outside of the independent sector

Cultural cricketers Courtney Lawes (rugby), Matt Smith (actor, left), Sir Francis Crick (scientist)

What sets the school apart? As a state school with no resources for Saturday fixtures, they have consistently punched above their weight when it comes to cricket. The school has consistently defeated local and national private school opponents and are regular County Cup winners as well as performing competitively in national competitions. They also have several county age-group players Finest moment on the field They reached the semi-finals of the National Cup

Recent progress The School won

the County Cup at under-12 and under-15 level and lost in the final with the under-14 team. They have have defeated the likes of Oundle, Prestfelde, Wellingborough School and Leicester Grammar School Future plans They are aiming to develop their facilities for cricket at the school and have high hopes that the ECB will allow a restructuring of the National Cup to allow school cricket to progress and thrive in both the state and independent sector

Future tours: The school is aiming to tour Barbados in 2024

Director of cricket Matt Dixon

OAKHAM SCHOOL

Chapel Close, Market Pl, Oakham LE15 6DT

Established 1584

Number of pupils 1,043 Director of cricket Neil Johnson (Zimbabwe)

Acting head of cricket Patrick Latham

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15AB, U14ABC,. Girls: 1st XI, U15A

Girls’ cricket Girls’ matches are o ered at U18, U15 and U13, along with some mixed cricket, with the number of mixed games due to increase in 2023. In 2022, in the lower school, more girls than boys chose cricket as their summer games option

Fixtures The school plays around 150 fixtures per year, including matches against the MCC XL Club and Leicester Gents, touring teams and a pre-season schedule. There is also the end-of-season BOWS Festival, involving Brighton, Oakham, Wellington and Sedbergh. The annual Old Oakhamian (alumni) vs

OUNDLE SCHOOL

Church St, Oundle, Peterborough PE8 4EE

Established 1556

Number of pupils 1,111

Head of cricket David Foster Professionals Malcolm Roberts (boys’ professional), Patricia Hankins (girls’ professional), John Crawley (girls’ 1st XI coach)

Teams boys – 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, 16ABC, 15ABC, 14ABCD, 13ABCD. girls - 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABCD Girls’ cricket All girls in Year 7 and Year 8 play cricket, and it is o ered as an option in Year 9 upwards, where roughly 70 girls opt in Post-pandemic changes Oundle are back to normal with their o ering, including the addition of live-streaming for 1st XI matches. They jointly set up the David Capel Trophy in honour of the Northamptonshire legend Fixtures The school plays around 200 fixtures in total, with more than 20 each year for the boys’ 1st XI across multiple formats, including

1st XI cricket match, held on Speech Day every year, is always a hotly anticipated event

Facilities The school has six grounds, four indoor nets, seven astroturf nets and 11 grass nets. They also have access to a full-time S&C coach and gym Club/county a liation Oakham have a strong a liation with Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire, with several pupils in their academy and age-group sides. Many students turn out for local clubs Oakham, Uppingham and Stamford Best prospect Freddie Fairey is part of Norfolk’s system, while

Joe Johnson is in Leicestershire’s academy

Cricketers of note Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire & England), Tom Fell (Worcestershire), Josh Cobb (Northamptonshire), Lyndon James (Nottinghamshire)

Brief history The first recorded cricket match was against local rivals Uppingham School in 1815. Oakham won the match and cricket has since gone from strength to strength with pupils regularly representing their county and country. Robert King was the school’s first county player. In 1926 Percy Chapman became the first Oakhamian to captain England.

In 1996 Lucy Pearson won her first Test cap for England. Oakham’s first overseas cricket tour was to Zimbabwe in 1995, followed by tours to South Africa in 2005 and 2015

Cultural cricketers Lewis Moody, Tom Croft, Alex Goode, Hamish Watson (all rugby), Miles Jupp (actor)

What sets the school apart? They have hosted first-class matches in recent times at Doncaster Close, while Wilson Fields – the second ground – has hosted county secondteam games in the past

Finest moment on the field When Broad passed 500 Test wickets over the summer of 2020, he recognised former school coaches David Steele and Frank Hayes as major parts of his development

Recent progress The introduction as a major sport option to girls has led to a huge boom in the Lower School especially

Future plans A 14-lane astroturf enclosed netting system will be in place for September 2022, having also recently installed a three-lane Dream netting system

declaration games against MCC and Free Foresters. The girls’ 1st XI plays 15 games.

Facilities

The school has nine grass pitches, 10 outdoor artificial nets and 10 grass nets. In an indoor sports hall, there are a further four lanes, with a second sports centre used for indoor matches. There are four bowling machines Club/county a liation As well as links to Northants and Sunrisers, Oundle host an MCC Foundation hub for talented state-school pupils. Currently, 25 pupils represent counties

Best prospect Ralph Hayward, a 15-year-old batter in the 1st XI, represents Northamptonshire at agegroup level

Cricketers of note Greg Smith (Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire), Will Je erson (Nottinghamshire, Essex)

Brief history Cricket has been a major part of Oundle since 1830 when

the first match is thought to have been played, although the oldest full scorecard on record is from a game against Uppingham in 1855. Oundle Rovers have reached the last two Cricketer Cup finals

Cultural cricketers Tom Harrison (ex-ECB CEO), Shaharyar Khan (exPCB chairman)

What sets the school apart? As well as a packed all-year-round programme, sixth-form pupils receive one-to-one coaching sessions during free periods

Finest moment on the field Four sisters all played together in the girls’ 1st XI in their win in the National T20 Cup last 16, with Sasha and Clara

Wakeford (101 and 61*) putting on a partnership worth 150

Recent progress The school has seen its girls’ teams improve immeasurably, with runs to the last eight in the country in the U18 National Cup, while the U15 were regional finalists in the indoor competition. Cricket has also been extended into September for students

Future plans There are plans to upgrade the school’s second pavilion, while they are also set to host an IAPS festival in 2023

Tours The school took 37 pupils on tour to Barbados last Easter. They run tours every three years

Head of cricket David Foster

QUEEN MARY’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL, WALSALL

Sutton Rd, Walsall WS1 2PG

Established 1554

Number of pupils 1,240 Master in charge Alex Hammond (England PD)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17 XI (Cup), U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC

Girls’ cricket Although a boys’ school through Years 7 to 11, 2019 saw the introduction of a sixth-form girls’ house competition. This was repeated in 2022, and the school plans to develop and promote girls’ cricket

Post-pandemic changes The school has had the benefit of an additional coach this year to assist with lunchtime and afterschool clubs. They have continued to develop a partnership with Hawk Cricket, who o er a 20 per cent discount to all pupils

Fixtures The school plays between 110 and 120 fixtures per year

Facilities The school has an indoor sports hall with three net lanes, a three-lane enclosed outdoor net facility, two BOLA bowling machines and two squares. The junior square includes an artificial strip Club/county a liation The school has an association with the Sta ordshire Cricket Board, while they have also forged stronger ties with Walsall CC, Aldridge CC and Bronze CC, who use the school’s sports hall to train Best prospect Yusuf Khan, who represents Worcestershire U16, is

a promising opening batsman and medium-pace bowler

Cricketers of note David Brown (Warwickshire & England)

Brief history The first recorded match was in 1874 between Queen Mary’s and Walsall CC in Old Chuckery

Cultural cricketers Malvind Benning (Mansfield Town FC) What sets the school apart?

Students can take part in one-toones before the start of the school day. The school also runs a large primary school outreach programme where Year 5 students come to Queen Mary’s Finest moment on the field They were U15 Schools Regional T20 winners for Sta ordshire in 2015 and 2019

Recent progress There were strong cup runs in 2022 from the U13A and U15A teams. The school has also added regular C team fixtures for the U12 and U13 teams. The school has also strengthened its ties to its old boys network, while also acquiring a light roller to help produce better pitches

Future plans They are looking to refurbish and improve their indoor net facilities by adding an extra lane in the sports hall; £10,000 has been raised so far through a cricket awards dinner and a 24-hour net. There are plans to extend the pavilion, complete drainage work as well as levelling the outfield and building a new square, including a couple of hybrid pitches. An extensive fundraising project has started with the aim for these projects to start in 2023

Tours There are plans for the U15 team to travel to Desert Springs and for a senior trip to Sri Lanka

RADLEY COLLEGE

Kennington Rd, Radley, Abingdon OX14 2HR

Established 1847

Number of pupils 758 Master in charge Simon Dalrymple

Professional Andy Wagner Teams Boys: 20 teams

Post-pandemic changes Other than exploiting Zoom for remote sessions on specific subjects such as captaincy, Radley’s cricket o ering has returned to normal Fixtures The 1st XI play around 20 matches in a normal year, including participation in the Cowdrey Cup (against Eton, Harrow, Tonbridge, Charterhouse and Wellington) and the John Harvey Cup (Marlborough, Cheltenham, St Edward’s, Winchester and Bradfield), as well as a T20 knockout competition and annual fixtures against the MCC and other wandering teams

Facilities Radley have a sports hall with five indoor nets, 26 artificial outdoor nets, 19 of which were recently installed, four separate squares – with cages that can be wheeled out onto practice pitches –and 10 grass wickets Club/county a liation Andy Wagner runs a Saturday academy programme to o er coaching to youngsters from local clubs during the Lent term

Cricketers of note Nick Gubbins (Middlesex, Hampshire), Jamie Dalrymple (Middlesex, England)

Ben Hutton (Middlesex), Sir Andrew Strauss (Middlesex, England), Robin Martin-Jenkins (Sussex), Ted Dexter (Sussex, England)

Brief history Radley’s cricket tradition is a strong one. The sport

was launched as an alternative for rowing in the early 1850s and the first recorded fixture was against Bradfield in 1853. Since then, there have been a number of ‘golden eras’, with the sides of the 1866-67, 1929-32, the 1990s and then 2006-08 deserving special mention

Cultural cricketers Peter Cook (satirist)

What sets the school apart?

Andy Wagner is synonymous with Radley cricket and worked alongside Bert Robinson (who managed 51 consecutive seasons as cricket professional) for 30 years. They produced a string of unbeaten sides in the 1990s. Gubbins, Wilf Marriot and Alex Hearne were all selected to play for the same England U15 side in 2009 Finest moment on the field In 2017, Radley took six wickets in six balls against Marlborough. That cohort won the John Harvey Cup and finished joint-top of the Cowdrey Cup table

Recent progress The school has arranged fixtures with sides from St Bartholomew’s school in Newbury and Broadway Academy for the first time; their contribution to supporting cricket in these schools has previously been minimal, but there is a determination to do more to support the game in the state sector

Future plans The building of a new indoor sports facility will allow more dedicated coaching in the winter; they are also reinstating a new grass square to allow more fixtures to be played each week at home. Radley are also working on a partnership with Cricket Builds Hope (a charity based in Rwanda)

Tours Radley went to Desert Springs in Spain this Easter, with plans for a major trip to Rwanda

REED’S SCHOOL

Sandy Ln, Cobham KT11 2ES

Established 1813

Number of pupils 800 Master in charge Malcolm Dunn

Professional Keith Medlycott Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U16, U15ABC, U14ABCDE, U13ABCD, U12ABCD |Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI

Girls’ cricket The school only has girls in the sixth form, but the three teams have full fixture lists, with some girls having played cricket before arriving at Reed’s and others beginning on arrival

Post-pandemic changes Through the pandemic, teams played and trained solely in year-groups, but they have since been able to revert to normal pre-Covid provisions

Fixtures The school plays 220 fixtures per year, including against the MCC Facilities The school has two senior and two junior squares on site, as well as a satellite ground with two more senior squares. A state-of-the-art indoor facility has five net-lanes,

REIGATE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Reigate Rd, Reigate RH2 0QS

Established 1675

Number of pupils 1,082 Head of cricket James Leck Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABCD, U12ABCD. Girls (Hardball): 1st XI, U17, U15, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB. Girls (Softball): U15, U13, U12. Girls (Indoor): U15, U13 Girls’ cricket All age-groups enjoyed success in various cup competitions in 2022, with the U17 side reaching the Surrey Schools county final and

with Pitch Vision analysis in each. It also features Merlyn and TrueMan BOLA bowling machines, plus four professional bowling machines. Outdoors, there are six recently refurbished artificial nets, eight grass nets and two Flicx wickets Club/county a liation A Rajasthan Royals Academy is linked to and based at the school – the only IPL academy in the UK. Reed’s also has links to Esher CC and Stoke D’Abernon CC

Bright prospect Stuart van der Merwe is a left-handed batsman who

bowls useful medium pace. He scored close to 500 runs this season and took 10 wickets before a shoulder injury curtailed his bowling Cricketers of note Phil Salt (Sussex, Lancashire, England), Dan Douthwaite (Glamorgan) Brief history Cricket has been played at Cobham since the school arrived from Totnes just after the war. Former headmaster Rodney Exton was a county cricketer at Hampshire when still a schoolboy, while recently retired Headmaster David Jarrett was a Blue at Oxford and Cambridge.

Cultural cricketers Tim Henman (tennis), Michael Ball (entertainment), Tom Hardy (actor) What sets the school apart? Surrey Women used to play their home matches at Reed’s

Finest moment on the field Reed’s were quarterfinalists in the HMC National T20 in 2015 and winners of the 50/40 League in 2014, 2015 and 2017. They have been Surrey Cup winners at under-14 and under-15 level for the last five years

Recent progress The school purchased NV Play live streaming hardware and software, so that parents could watch from home or work during the pandemic. It has also enhanced analysis capabilities

Future plans There are plans to refurbish grass nets and renovate the outfields, while extending the main square. The Jarrett Cricket Centre is developing greater engagement with local clubs. There is also a plan to redevelop the pavilion and install an irrigation system across all grounds Tours In 2023, they will return to Barbados, where the school has toured previously

the U13 and U15 semis. Four pupils are part of South East Stars’ academy and six play for Surrey’s youth teams. There are block Saturday fixtures through the term, with hardball games for B teams taking place for the first time in the 2022 summer Post-pandemic changes A podcast set up during Covid has transformed into a high-performance programme, with guest speakers coming in to discuss a range of topics. The use of video analysis has also been retained. Cricket is now played into September,

while the winter provision has expanded Fixtures The school’s 1st XIs – boys and girls – both take on the MCC; overall, there are 118 boys’ fixtures and 63 for girls, as well as 17 indoor fixtures for girls Facilities There are three squares at Hartswood Sports Grounds and an astroturf pitch; the school has two indoor net facilities. A new groundsman has rejuvenated the grass pitches, while £35,000 was put into the development of Hartswood in 2021 Club/county a liation The school has links to Reigate Priory CC, who use the ground’s facilities for training and matches. Surrey have used the school grounds for Surrey Schools’ Cricket Association matches and county age-group matches at Hartswood

Bright prospect Lily Foster plays for the girls’ 1st XI and captains the U17 team; she is part of Surrey’s Emerging Player Group (EPG) Cricketers of note Will Beer (Sussex)

What sets the school apart?

The school’s win percentage ratio versus schools of similar stature has increased over the last three years Finest moment on the field The school remain undefeated against the MCC for eight years, including victories in 2014 and 2017. In September, 2021, the U15A girls reached Finals Day of the National Cup

Recent progress Participation levels have increased dramatically, from 165 players in 2017 to 310 in 2022

Future plans The second phase of an artificial net facility has been developed, with the final phase happening in the new year. Plans are also in place for a pavilion on the second field, while an £8million sports centre with state-of-the-art net facilities has been approved

Tours In February, 2023, a senior boys’ team will travel to Dubai. The annual junior tour of Jersey could include senior and intermediate girls’ teams

Cultural cricketers Bill Frindall (statistician), David Walliams (comedian)

Head of cricket James Leck

REPTON SCHOOL

Willington Rd, Repton, Derby DE65 6FH

Established 1557

Number of pupils 600 Master in charge Cameron Wake Director of cricket Chris Read (Nottinghamshire, England)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U15AB, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U15 Girls’ cricket Girls’ teams enter both indoor and outdoor national competitions in addition to a full fixture list

Fixtures Repton play more than 100 fixtures, with the 1st XI involved in 22 matches in 2021. Most notable games come against the MCC and a range of county age-group squads from Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, in addition to a strong school circuit, which includes Eton, Shrewsbury, Malvern, Oundle,

Rugby and Uppingham

Facilities Repton has four grounds, with five grass nets provided on the 1st XI and 2nd XI squares, with 10 artificial nets and seven indoor nets across two sports halls Club/county a liation The school works closely with Derbyshire, using the county’s indoor facilities once a week through the winter for their elite performance programme, and has strong relationships with neighbouring county cricket clubs. Many pupils are involved in performance pathways

Current prospects Archie Harrison is part of Derbyshire’s academy and has played for their second team Cricketers of note C.B. Fry (England), Ross Whiteley

(Hampshire), Nitish Kumar (Canada), Chris Adams (Sussex, England)

Brief history Repton has produced 12 international players and 154 firstclass cricketers. ‘The Square’, where the 1st XI play, is surrounded by ruins of the original Priory and sits in the shadows of St Wystan’s spire

Cultural cricketers

Roald Dahl (author), Jeremy Clarkson (broadcaster) What sets the school apart? Other than producing three England captains, teams have access to a strength and

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

For Repton School director of cricket Chris Read, being selected in The Cricketer’s top 100 comes down to the quality of his school’s cricket prorgramme and the pupils who engage with it.

Repton has had a staggering 154 first-class cricketers advance through its ranks over the years and cricket will always be at the heart of the school.

“We make sure cricket is accessible to all whether that be recreational or high performance. We manage to put out 11 sides which is fantastic for a school of our size; everyone wants to get involved,” Read, the former England and Nottinghamshire wicketkeeper said.

The season was Repton’s most successful in a decade, with the boys’ 1st XI breaking the school record for most games won across a summer: 16 in total. Meanwhile, the under-

14s and under-15s became county champions.

“Perhaps our biggest highlight was the girls’ under-15s side getting to finals day of The Schools Sports Magazine competition where they came runners-up,” Read said. “[It was] a huge achievement considering a girls’ programme didn’t exist when I first arrived four years ago.

“Girls’ participation is increasing and we benefit from the girls moving up from the prep school, playing hard-ball cricket and having exposure to di erent formats [namely T20 and 100-ball]. The loss of rounders and introduction of cricket to the girls’ curriculum has aided participation and made the game more accessible and we want to make sure it has a level footing with the boys’ game.

“By the same breath, we’re also managing to attract high-performance cricketers, with a good number of girls involved in county age groups,

conditioning gym with individualised sessions, physiotherapy and rehabilitation. Derbyshire 2nd XI regularly play fixtures at Repton and used the school as their training base during the 2020 summer

Finest moment on the field Repton were the Schools T20 Winners in 2008. They also secured a recordbreaking 15 wins in one season in 2013, and were U15 National Schools One Day Cup semi-finalists in 2015

Recent progress Having gone from no girls’ cricket being played in 2019, Repton now have a full fixture list for the U18s. 1st XI matches are live-streamed, while the elite player performance programme has been developed

Future plans Plans are in place for the redevelopment of Repton’s outdoor net facilities and a state-ofthe-art scoreboard. They are also becoming an MCC Foundation hub, working with local state schools to get the best local cricketing talent working with elite coaches and making use of the school’s cricketing facilities all year around. Tours The school will tour Sri Lanka or South Africa in 2023

elite performance programmes and academies. We have girls who play in the boys’ teams lower down the school and I don’t rule them out playing in the senior sides in years to come.”

Repton have a close connection with local county side Derbyshire, attracting both their boys and girls to the school. The flow of talent works in the opposite direction, as well, with Read working closely with pathway manager Daryn Smit.

“We are aligned on progress of individual boys and girls and, during the o -season, our first team get use of their indoor facilities and even played a T20 fixture against Rugby at their ground, which was a fantastic experience,” Read explained.

With access to two sports halls, experienced coaching sta , sports science and video analysis, students at Repton can enjoy a professional setup.

“Ultimately, we are responsible for their development, whether that be technically, physically or psychologically,” Read said. “We have really grown in these areas over the last two years.”

Director of cricket Chris Read

The SENSE of BALANCE

Arrange a personal tour by calling 01283 559200 or email admissions@repton.org.uk

A perfectly balanced education in the heart of England

repton.org.uk

RUGBY SCHOOL

Lawrence Sheri St, Rugby CV22 5EH

Established 1567

Number of pupils 865

Director of cricket Michael Powell (ex-Warwickshire)

Head coach Nick Tester Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls – 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15

Girls’ cricket Girls play fixtures on Saturdays, midweek and enter

the national T20 and 100-ball competitions

Post-pandemic changes Video analysis and feedback is sent directly to players via the ‘Coach Logic’ and ‘PitchVision’ platforms

Fixtures The most notable fixture is a two-day match against Marlborough, which has been running since 1855. A girls’ fixture has been established between the two schools Facilities Rugby have eight indoor nets across two sports centres, as well as several bowling machines, 12 grass nets and eight cricket pitches. There

are eight new astro nets Club/county a liation The school has links with Warwickshire and Northamptonshire and has hosted List A, 2nd XI and junior county fixtures in recent years. The school is hosting three festivals and club Finals Days in the summer, and they plan to be an MCC Hub from January 2023 Bright prospect Jacob Bethell made his Warwickshire debut last year and has also represented England Under-19 and Welsh Fire Cricketers of note Pelham Warner (Middlesex, England), Maia Bouchier (England, Southern Vipers) Brief history Rugby scorecards date back to 1831. The Marlborough fixture has been played at various grounds including The Oval, but Lord’s became its home for nearly 100 years until 1972. This two-day game continues today and is hosted in alternate years by the two schools. A one-day game to celebrate Rugby’s 450th anniversary was played on the main square at Lord’s in 2017 Cultural cricketers Giles Clarke (ECB), William Yardley (dramatist), Rupert Brooke (poet)

What sets the school apart? Rugby was one of seven schools named in the Public Schools Act (1868). Pierre de Coubertin, who founded the modern Olympic Games, wrote in his memoirs that “it was to Arnold [Rugby’s Victorian Headmaster] that we turned, more or less consciously, for inspiration”. Cricket subsequently featured in the 1900 Olympics, with Great Britain recording a victory over France

Finest moment on the field The report from the 1979 Marlborough match reads: “Rugby were left with 177 to make in 80 minutes; the captain, David Cutter, reached this target with a mighty six o the penultimate ball.”

Recent progress The girls’ programme continues to grow, and they have reached the Finals Day of the National 100-ball Cup. The boys are U15 county champions and made it through to the regional Finals Day

Future plans A head coach for girls’ cricket is starting next September Tours Tours are planned for next year to Dubai (junior) and Sri Lanka (senior)

SCARBOROUGH COLLEGE

Filey Road, Scarborough YO11 3BA

Established 1896

Number of pupils 419

Acting director of sport Piet Rinke

Professionals Piet Rinke (Zimbabwe), Ryan Sidebottom, Craig White, Stephen Parry (all England)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15, U14, U13, U12, U11, U9.

Girls: U15, U14, U13, U12 Girls’ cricket In addition to regular competitive fixtures for girls of all ages, the school also hosts two girls’ festivals at Scarborough CC. They have also forged links with local clubs and host Yorkshire representative teams for matches and training Fixtures In 2022, there were 91 fixtures from under-nine

through to senior level, with an MCC match among those. They also hosted three festivals, one of which was a boys’ T10 tournament, as well as participating in Yorkshire Cup age-group competitions, HMC Schools nationals and many more festivals

Facilities The school has two squares on-site: the pavilion was recently lost in a fire, but there are plans for a state-of-the-art replacement. There are batting cages available for training, as well as two additional grass pitches and four Astro-turf wickets. Indoor training facilities include four nets, which feature high-e ciency LED lighting Club/county a liation The school hosts the Scarborough MCC Foundation Hub and

holds partnerships with Yorkshire and Lancashire. Members of sta are heavily involved in local club cricket as players, coaches, captains and umpires. Nearly 80 per cent of pupils that represent the school in fixtures also play for club cricket

Bright prospect Cian Dickinson plays for Lancashire’s academy and 2nd XI; Alex Burton represents Yorkshire U16

Cricketers of note David Byas (Yorkshire), Richard Doughty (Surrey, Gloucestershire)

Brief history Scarborough won the Bright Bowl competition once in the 1950s and the John Bartli Shield three times in a row

What sets the school apart? The school is proud of its ties with the local community, epitomised by their relationship with Scarborough Cricket Club, just 10 minutes down the road.

The school plays regular fixtures at North Marine Road, where Yorkshire’s first team also play

Finest moment on the field Last season featured fixtures against Repton and Sedbergh for the first time, as well as a close clash with Yorkshire Academy

Recent progress The evolution of girls’ cricket is a source of pride at Scarborough, as is the progress of three youngsters who have left the college ready for professional cricket

Future plans A short-term programme is in the works for aspiring cricketers from all over the world. It ran successfully this year, with interest increasing as a result

Tours The 1st XI travelled to Desert Springs in April 2022 for The Cricketer Schools 100-ball Challenge, while there is a plan for a 1st XI tour of Zimbabwe next April

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Piet Rinke has been a busy man at Scarborough College over recent years.

Combining his role as head of cricket with the responsibilities of a housemaster and, until recently, acting director of sport, there has been little downtime.

Now, however, things are starting to return to a level of normality, and Rinke has time to fully focus on cricket. His sense of relief is palpable, as is his pride in Scarborough making the Schools Guide cut for 2023.

The school has been named in the top 100 despite the major blow of seeing a devastating fire rip through their famous old pavilion.

“It’s a massive honour being recognised and is

a big drive for the programme,” Rinke said.

“It gets our name out there, that we are taking cricket seriously and the programme is only growing. The programme has grown from seven boys on our gold programme to 19, and we now have 32 on the silver programme as part of our centre of excellence.

“We run three sessions a week of small group training sessions and one-to-one sessions, with exposure to di erent coaches. We run a full pre-season and start o on analysis of where they have come from and targeting what they want to achieve, looking at short, medium and long-term goals and ambitions so they all have something to work towards.”

Rinke is trying to expose the players to a

professional set-up, ensuring they acclimatise to an elite environment.

“We’ve got quite a few students on our books who play for Lancashire and Yorkshire, working on a similar pathway as our programme,” he said. “Equally, they can send their students here, who are looking for an educated based training programme… we are a very good option for them to send their kids our way and vice versa.”

Girls’ cricket is also significant at Scarborough College, with every girl given a chance to play the game during the summer term.

“We have a full fixture card for girls’ cricket which is in keeping with the boys’,” Rinke said. “The area is relatively strong in terms of girls’ cricket, with all our local derbies hosting games throughout the age groups. We have players as young as under-13 being exposed to hard-ball cricket if they are good enough. The transition from soft-ball is a challenge but one we look to develop in order to increase participation.”

C M Y CM MY CY CMY K

Mr Mark Langley, Senior School Registrar

Acting director of sport Piet Rinke

Boys:

SEAFORD COLLEGE

Lavington Park, Petworth GU28 0NB

Established 1884

Number of pupils 870

Head of cricket Chris Adams (Sussex, England)

Teams 42 teams between Year 5 and Year 13 for boys and girls, including hardball and softball cricket. Based on expected continued growth of girls’ cricket, Seaford expect to exceed 50 competitive teams within two years Girls’ cricket Cricket is now the core summer girls’ sport throughout every year group, with eight pupils on county pathways Postpandemic changes

An online seminar series has been continued

for sport scholars with di erent speakers covering di erent subjects. They have also continued to run internal matches for C and D teams Fixtures Saturday block fixtures through the summer, as well as entry into national and county cup competitions, with annual flagship games against the MCC, Sussex Martlets and Lord’s Taverners.

The 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15A and U14A sides all compete in the Langdale Cup, a 100-ball competition which comprises nine schools in Sussex.

Seaford also take part in an annual four-school festival at Stamford Facilities Six grounds, a 10-lane outdoor cricket net facility, two portable cage nets and six indoor nets. They also have a marquee to sit over three artificial wickets for use during the winter performance programme. They have also invested in an analysis suite Club/county a liation Close association with Sussex, whose U15 training hub has been hosted at Seaford. They also have links with several local clubs

Bright prospect Luc Benkenstein, son of Dale, made his Essex List A debut in 2021. Charlie Tear, an

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

When Chris Adams joined Seaford College as head of cricket six years ago, even an application to The Cricketer’s Schools Guide seemed a long way o .

In 2022, however, Seaford have taken pride of place among the top 100 senior schools for the second successive season, having invigorated their cricket programme.

Former England batsman Adams said: “The top 100 application form was a primary driver and target of where we needed to be and what we needed to put in place – it means an awful lot personally and to the school that we have back-to-back listings and highlights where we are now. Last year was incredible in getting over the line and to consolidate is very satisfying.”

(both Sussex)

Brief history Seaford moved to Lavington Park in 1946 and cricket has been played in the 450 acres of listed parkland ever since Cultural cricketers Tom Odell (singer), Toby Stephens (actor) What sets the school apart? The beautiful surroundings at Lavington Park, with Mansion House – where the HQ Commando Group were stationed during World War Two – in the background Finest moment on the field The boys’ teams have made significant progress, with the 1st XI reaching

Recent progress The rollout and growth of the girls’ cricket programme, a doubling of participation levels within the cricket programme and a comprehensive upgrading of all the school’s cricket facilities

Future plans They hope to build a standalone indoor cricket facility. The school runs half-term cricket camps open to Seaford students and anyone from other schools in Years 5 to 9. They have added two new cricketing sta members in 2022

Tours They have entered a T20 tournament at Desert Springs for February 2023. They plan to tour the Caribbean in 2024

During Adams’ tenure, the school has upped the number of available pitches from three to eight. Fourteen teams have become 42, with 18 new girls’ sides making up a hearty chunk of that upsurge in participation.

“The school has doubled in size over the last decade – the growth of the cricket programme is in alignment with that of the school,” Adams said.

“We have increased and improved participation, facilities and infrastructure, while kickstarting the girls’ programme which we want to continue to drive to get on an equal level with the boys’ programme.”

Adams spoke to The Cricketer from Seaford’s purpose-built, three-lane marquee, the base of the cricket performance winter programme.

“Ninety-five per cent of our programme has to be about participation, fun, enjoyment

and growing good people as well as players. However, there is also the element of getting that top two or three per cent to go and play professionally,” he said.

“We have two lads who have recently gone on to first-class programmes: Charlie Tear, a wicket-keeper batsman who signed a threeyear contract with Sussex and played in their last two County Championship games of the season, and Luc Benkenstein, who featured for Essex in the Royal London Cup.”

Three Seaford girls have gone on to be signed up by Southern Vipers.

“We decided to introduce a girls’ programme to the prep school as we found trying to introduce cricket to the girls at the senior school was not having much traction,” Adams said.

“This has now started to bear fruit with this year’s outgoing year-13 girls now the last to have not had exposure to the game. We are excited to see where our girls’ programme can go over the next few years.”

18-year-old wicketkeeper, made fifty in his second County Championship appearance for Sussex Cricketers of note Jeremy Groome, Adrian Jones

the South-East Regional National T20 final

Head of cricket Chris Adams

SEDBERGH SCHOOL

Station Rd, Sedbergh LA10 5HG

Established 1525

Number of pupils 560

Director of cricket Martin Speight

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB. Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14 girls

Girls’ cricket The 1st XI play in national schools 100-ball competition. Two players are in the academies of Thunder and Northern Diamonds

Post-pandemic changes Matches for juniors and girls now bowl five overs from one end at a time before changing

Fixtures The 1st play up to 25 games per year, while the U17 side take part in the National Schools Cup. The U14A and U15A teams play against other schools and enter 40-over and T20 competitions. The girls’ 1st XI play 10 matches per season against schools and clubs. The 2nd and 3rd XIs both take part in the Westmoreland Leagues and play midweek games against other schools

Facilities Four grounds, grass nets on practice wickets on two squares, six outdoor all-weather nets, four indoor lanes and two sports halls for indoor games Club/county a liation Lancashire play first-class and/or List A fixtures. Cumberland use the school’s indoor facilities and the main ground for fixtures

Bright prospect Thomas Aspinwall – Sedbergh captain for 2022 – is an allrounder

on Lancashire’s books and plays for Lancashire’s second team. He featured at the Bunbury festival in 2019 and for England Under-19s against West Indies

Cricketers of note Jordan Clark (Lancashire, Surrey), Harry Brook (below), George Hill, Matty Revis (all Yorkshire)

Brief history Cricket has been a longstanding part of the summer term at Sedbergh School. Indeed, Norman Stewart Mitchell-Innes was an amateur cricketer for Somerset who played one Test for England in 1935. The past 20 years has seen the cricket club gain a higher profile nationally with the development of several first-class cricketers, led by Speight, who played for Sussex and Durham. Over the past 15 years, teams at under-15, under-17 and under-18 levels have all reached National Schools finals

Cultural cricketers Will Greenwood (rugby)

Finest moment on the field There have been three National Cup victories – two for the U15 sides in T20 (2007 & 2019) and one for the 1st XI in 2017. In that victory, Max Silvester became the first player to make a century in the final Future plans The school is keen to develop their partnership with Cumberland and further links with Lancashire and Durham. On the girls’ side, there are plans to develop connections with the regional hubs at Yorkshire and Thunder, potentially becoming a satellite for girls’ cricket going forward

SHENFIELD HIGH SCHOOL

Alexander Ln, Shenfield, Brentwood CM15 8RY

Established 1962

Number of pupils 1,480 Director of sport Garry Sapsford Lead cricket academy coaches Catherine Dalton, Ben NotleyGri ths

Teams Boys: U12, U13, U14, U15, U17, U18. Girls: U13, U15, U18 Girls’ cricket Teams play regular fixtures, while several girls represent Hutton CC, who have been integral to the promotion of the sport in the local area. Girls’ cricket has been running at the school since 2000 Fixtures The number of fixtures played depends on progress in county and national cups. In 2022, the U15 girls were Essex champions both indoors and outdoors, with U13 boys’ and girls’ teams, U15 boys and U17 girls also reaching 2022 finals Facilities Shenfield have a sports hall with two indoor nets, as well as an Astro-turf wicket and two outdoor artificial nets. A 3G Astro-turf pitch is used for softball cricket sessions Club/county a liation As well as a formal partnership with Hutton, who regularly share their facilities with Shenfield, the school has a less formal relationship with Shenfield CC, whose 5th XI use the school’s Astro pitch

Bright prospect Fast bowler Sam Bear had Bunbury trials recently and could become the second Shenfield player to play at the festival Cricketers of note Matt Salisbury (Durham), Mady Villiers (Essex, Sunrisers, England)

Brief history Shenfield’s cricket programme has long been recognised for its outstanding o ering. They became the first non-selective

state school to attend the Sir Garry Sobers tournament in Barbados. The programme began in 2013 with the support of Level 3 coach Catherine Dalton, becoming one of the country’s leading cricketing state schools over the last eight years. The school’s academy players train all year round with the U18 squad.

Cultural cricketers Philip Hammond (Chancellor), Ross Kemp (actor), Richard Madeley (presenter) What sets the school apart?

As a non-selective state school, Shenfield gets no additional funding for cricket opportunities it provides. The school’s U15 girls reached the last 32 of the National Cup this year as well as finishing fifth in the regional indoor finals

Finest moment on the field The school reached the U17 National Schools Cup semi-final in 2017. They won the U13 and 15 girls’ National ‘Chance to Shine’ Cup titles at Loughborough University

Recent progress The school is most proud of ex-pupil Mady Villiers, who only began playing cricket at Shenfield and is now part of England Women’s side. This year’s U15 girls beat Felsted School to claim the Essex indoor cricket title

Future plans The school is raising funds for another astro-turf wicket and two more indoor nets

Tours The U14 boys’ squad went to Eastbourne College in May; they are planning an U17 tour to Spain for next year and a trip to South Africa for 2024

SHREWSBURY SCHOOL

The Schools, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY3 7BA

Established 1552

Number of pupils 800 Master in charge Will Hughes Professional Adam Shantry Head of girls’ cricket Gwenan Davies

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 16AB, 15ABC, 14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 15AB, 14AB

Girls’ cricket It is o ered as a major summer sport with a winter programme, winter tour and full fixture list. The U15 team is due to tour Dubai next April and South Africa in February. In 2017 and 2018, the school were runners-up in the Lord’s Taverners Indoor Cricket final.

They also established the Shrewsbury School National U18 T20. Central Sparks’ Gwenan Davies is head of girls’ cricket, with Sparks captain Eve Jones as one of her assistants Fixtures More than 300 in a full season, including fixtures against Millfield, Eton, Malvern, Sedbergh, Worcestershire Academy, MCC and Free Foresters. Girls also play against Shropshire, Sta ordshire, Warwickshire and Wales U17 Facilities A state-of-the-art indoor cricket centre has been in use since 2005/06, with four lanes, each with bowling machines. The school has six squares, 14 grass nets and four all-weather nets, with two Astro-turfs to practice fielding in the o -season Club/county a liation

The school has close links to Shrewsbury CC, while many pupils represent Shropshire in age-group cricket, as well as others at Worcestershire, Warwickshire, Lancashire and Northamptonshire.

Glamorgan Academy use the indoor centre for their North Wales group

Bright prospect Rhys Lewis has scored plenty of runs and taken several wickets with his o -spin this year; he is thought highly of by Middlesex

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Having become somewhat of a permanent fixture in The Cricketer Schools Guide, there is no chance Shrewsbury School will be resting on their laurels any time soon.

Shrewsbury have made freshness and an ever-evolving curriculum a crucial element of the way cricket is taught to students.

“We are proud to be recognised and to achieve this standing, along with a range of other top-level schools,” Will Hughes, the school’s master in charge of cricket, said.

“We cannot allow complacency to creep in and have to reinvent ourselves to keep things fresh.”

“The strength of schools cricket is improving all the time, for both girls and boys, so you have to keep re-evaluating where you are at in all

Cricketers of note Issy Wong (Birmingham Phoenix, England, below), James Taylor (England, Notts & Leics), Joe Leach (Worcestershire), Ed Barnard (Worcestershire), David Lloyd (Glamorgan) Cultural cricketers Charles Darwin (naturalist), Sir Phillip Sydney (poet), Martin Rees (astronomer), Michael Palin (broadcaster) What sets the school apart? The sole-use cricket centre is a huge plus-point, while Shrewsbury’s ‘village green’ pitch locations are picturesque Finest moment on the field The 1st XI won two HMC

T20 competitions and became the only team to win three Silk Trophies back to back. They have also made four National U17 Finals in the past eight years. The girls’ 1st XI won the inaugural Cricket Paper National Girls U18 100-ball competition

Recent progress The conversion of school cricketers into pros over the past 14 years is almost unrivalled – typified by Issy Wong’s rise – while the depth of their girls’ squads has become evident in recent years

Future plans The school have recently appointed a partnerships manager to further its outreach programmes and work with partner schools, local state schools and various minor county academies. Shrewsbury also enrol talented state-school pupils onto a ‘dedicated athletes programme’

areas of the game. We defeated state school Canterbury Academy to become The Cricket Paper National Under-17 Champions in a hardfought contest, showing the rising standards.

“Luckily, we have a standalone cricket centre which is an incredible resource. We have five coaches working with our new intake of pupils, which both introduces them to the centre and enthuses them about cricket. All players have the opportunity to knock on the coach’s door, ask for one-to-one sessions or look at video analysis to try to improve and make use of the facilities,” he said.

Former Northamptonshire player, Greg Smith, is a recent addition to their coaching sta , taking charge of the under-15s, while current Birmingham Phoenix and Central

Sparks player, Gwen Davies heads up girls’ cricket at the school.

Hughes said: “To have someone fresh out of first-class cricket is fantastic and sets a benchmark for the boys, while seeing a number of the girls at some of the Phoenix games this summer shows how Gwen is both a role model and aspiration who has helped drive participation.”

The school is setting o on tour in February, taking both senior girls’ and boys’ teams, adding impetus to their winter programme and exposing them to some of the best young players in South Africa.

“Winter programmes can sometimes become guilty of going through the motions – we make clear to the players that they have to get o that plane and hit the ground running and learn from their mistakes when it comes to the start of the summer season,” Hughes said.

“We are also planning on future tours to Sri Lanka and India, which will introduce them to spin and sub-continent conditions.”

Tours The boys and girls’ 1st XIs are going to South Africa in February www.shrewsbury.org.uk

Master in charge Will Hughes

SIMON LANGTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR BOYS

Langton Ln, Nackington Rd, Canterbury CT4 7AS

Established 1881

Number of pupils 1,110 Master in charge James Whitnell Teams Boys: 1st Xi, 2nd XI, U17, U16, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB, East Kent Cricket Academy XI (in partnership with The Canterbury Academy)

Girls’ cricket Girls feature in senior sides, as well as in small group training; they are looking to build in several eight-a-side fixtures, which will be a first for the school

Post-pandemic changes The school is back to its previous level, but sessions from guest coaches, such as Daniel Bell-Drummond, have been added. An expanded B-team fixture list has been retained from last year Fixtures The school plays more than 100 fixtures each year, including against MCC, Sandwich Town CC,

Tonbridge School and Hampton School. Last June, they played matches on every day except Sundays Facilities Four bay indoor nets, two artificial outdoor nets, two grass practice wickets, two cricket pitches with an artificial pitch Club/county a liation A partnership with the Canterbury Academy helps to provide for the East Kent Cricket Academy, which takes the best senior cricketers from both schools and gives them access to quality coaching from September through to July. The school also has links with Kent Bright prospect 15-year-old Ben Marsh is a batting allrounder on Kent’s radar; he plays for Canterbury CC Cricketers of note Mark Dobson (Kent, Glamorgan), Simon Cusden (Kent, Derbyshire)

Brief history Cricket has been played since the school’s formation and is considered a key part of their identity. Many of their former students feature prominently for clubs across Kent and in county age-group sides

Cultural cricketers Sir Freddie Laker (air travel)

What sets the school apart? The amount of cricket played for a state school, which relies on a committed group of sta to give up their time and also instil a love of the sport to the students

Finest moment on the field They beat the MCC for the first time last year

Recent progress This year, they reached at least the County Cup semi-finals in every age-group. More boys and girls are representing the school than ever before. The academy

programme, alongside The Canterbury Academy, is a unique tie-up

Future plans Fundraising for new artificial practice facilities is ongoing; next year they will play their first fully fledged girl’s fixtures, while the launch of a corresponding junior academy to the senior programme already o ered is in the works

Tours They are going to Barbados in February, 2024, for their first trip abroad since the pandemic – until then, that was a regular occurrence every two years

SOLIHULL SCHOOL

793 Warwick Rd, Solihull B91 3DJ

Established 1560

Number of pupils 1,531

Head of cricket Darren Maddy Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABC, U14ABCD, U13ABCD, U12ABCD. Girls: U15ABCD, U14ABCD, U13ABCD, U12ABCD Girls’ cricket Girls play hardball and softball games, while the school has also introduced mixed-gender teams Fixtures The school played more than 165 matches in 2022; those include a game against the MCC at the start of a cricket week. Their fixture list includes Bromsgrove, Warwick, Magdalen College, Denstone, Monmouth and Wellington School

Facilities

Solihull have four squares, six outdoor nets and four indoor

lanes in a sports hall; they also have access to bowling machines Club/county a liation The school has partnered with Complete Cricket Academy and have strong links with the Warwickshire Cricket Board and local clubs, who use all their facilities to host trials, practices and fixtures Bright prospect Left-handed batter Ashish Chakrapani is part of Warwickshire’s academy; he made his professional debut in the 2021 Royal London Cup Cricketers of note Ethan Brookes (Warwickshire)

Brief history The school upholds a strong cricket tradition. In recent years they have employed ex-professional cricketers in David Hemp and more recently Darren Maddy as director of cricket. They also have a former Test match groundsman who curates the cricket squares Cultural cricketers Michael Buerk (journalist), Simon Mayo (radio), Richard Hammond

(broadcaster)

What sets the school apart? They host county age-group matches and trials; their winter programme starts in October. The line of mature trees on the fields denotes each century that was scored during a period of the school’s cricketing history. Frank Foster was a Warwickshire and England allrounder whose career was cut short by an accident in the First World War Finest moment on the field The under-13 side were national

champions in 2016, while the under15s were national runners-up in 2016 and 2017

Recent progress

Girls’ cricket is thriving at the school and is now part of their curriculum. It is compulsory for all girls to play cricket during games afternoons up until Year 11. They have several girls on the current Warwickshire pathway. They have also restructured their sports department, having appointed the school’s first director of sport, health and fitness

Future plans The school has just laid four hybrid pitches on their 1st XI square and they are looking to make further improvements by developing the 2nd XI pitch with a new pavilion Future tours Next Easter, they are taking 36 boys to Sri Lanka for a two-week tour

Cultural cricketers Michael Buerk

Richard Hammond

SOUTH DARTMOOR COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Balland Ln, Ashburton, Newton Abbot TQ13 7EW

Established 1965

Number of pupils 876

Head of cricket Rob Pryke Teams 5 teams – boys and girls at U13 and U15, plus a 1st XI

Girls’ cricket Cricket is o ered to all year groups, with competitions entered at U13 and U15 Fixtures The school plays regular fixtures against local private and state schools as well as an annual fixture against MCC at Bovey Tracey CC. They also attend Chance to Shine competitions and enter the Broderick Cup at Queens College, Taunton Facilities Four outdoor nets, four indoor nets and the use of facilities at Bovey Tracey CC Club/county a liations: Bovey Tracey CC, Ashburton CC and Ipplepen CC

Best prospect Albie Bradley, a rightarm fast bowler and top-order batter, has played up an age group for Devon U13. Fast bowler Gethin Williams is also involved with Devon U13. Poppy Anstiss and Molly Pickard have both represented Devon at age-group level Cricketers of note Ellie InghamHill (England youth), Ash Causey (Devon)

Cultural cricketers Ollie Watkins (England & Aston Villa), Josh Widdecombe (comedian)

Brief history Cricket is one of the strongest sports at South Dartmoor, built on a culture of practice and dedication throughout autumn and spring terms which readies pupils for a summer of competition and success. The college has won three national titles and has several students representing the county What sets the school apart? Cricket at South Dartmoor has become a thriving sport available to every student, with a dedicated coaching sta and support from Devon Cricket Board. This gives the players help with all aspects of their game, including performance analysis. Students play high-level matches against top opposition and host a prestigious fixture against MCC, an honour usually reserved for county clubs and public schools Finest moment on the field Winning the national Chance to Shine indoor and outdoor competitions on three occasions for both boys and girls

Recent progress The school is proud to have re-engaged pupils in the sport after the pandemic, with between 30 and 40 young players at each session. Several students have become Young Storm Champion volunteers, coaching new and existing players at the college. The initiative was set up by Western Storm to engage girls aged 14-17 in coaching, umpiring and o ciating

Future plans The school plans to continue promoting young female volunteers through the Western Storm volunteering initiative, maintain a regular fixture with MCC and take students to county fixtures (they watched Somerset v Yorkshire in July 2022)

ST EDWARD’S SCHOOL

Woodstock Rd, Oxford OX2 7NN

Established 1863 Number of pupils 780 Head of cricket Ed Ellis

Professional Dave Simpkins Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U16ABCD, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15 Girls’ cricket St Edward’s run three girls’ sides who compete against a range of schools and enter national T20 and 100-ball competitions (U15 and U18)

Post-pandemic changes The use of technology to encourage tactical awareness has increased Fixtures Over 130 across all year groups, including fixtures against Eton, Harrow, and MCC and a notable outing to Wormsley Cricket Ground where the boys and girls 1st XIs play back-to-back T20 matches. The school also participates in the John Harvey Cup, a 50-over tournament with Winchester, Radley, Marlborough, Cheltenham and Bradfield, which they have won six times in the last eight seasons

senior academy after playing at Bunbury for the victorious South & West side

Cricketers of note Miles Hammond, Ben Charlesworth (both Gloucestershire), Alex Horton (Glamorgan)

Cultural cricketers Kenneth Grahame (author), John Woodcock (cricket journalist and former Wisden editor)

Brief history Cricket has always been played at St Edward’s, with the earliest recorded results dating back to 1873. The 1st XI ground lies less than a mile from the centre of Oxford and hosted its first NCCA fixture for overs 25 years in July 2018. The Martyrs Pavilion was designed by award-winning architect John Pawson Finest moment on the field Winning the John Harvey Cup for four consecutive years (2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016)

The

Facilities Six grounds, four indoor nets in the Douglas Bader Sports Centre, six outdoor Astro nets, six outdoor grass nets, 18-strip cover on 1st XI square, blotter and a Merlyn bowling machine Club/county a liation school shared facilities and resources with Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire and Southern Vipers

Best prospect Batter Dylan Driscoll (Year 11) has recently signed for Sussex’s

by Dave Simpkins. The time in 2021/22 and partnership with Southern Vipers, led to excellent results in the summer

cater for more pupils Tours Lanka and South Africa. The next overseas tour is due to take place in February 2024

Recent progress The school has seen an increase in the number of pupils playing during the summer as well as development of its winter programme and girls’ cricket programme due to the indoor facilities and the coaching provided by Dave Simpkins. The girls were o ered a winter programme for the first time in 2021/22 and this, alongside the partnership with Southern Vipers, led to excellent results in the summer Future plans To cater for more pupils throughout the winter Tours Recent tours have included Barbados, Sri Lanka and South Africa. The next overseas tour is due to take place in February 2024

ST GEORGE’S COLLEGE

Weybridge Rd, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 2QS

Established 1869

Number of pupils 1000

Head of cricket David Keightley Teams 27 teams. Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABCD. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABCD

Girls’ cricket Laura Gibson introduced girls’ cricket at the college in 2015. The school has won many Surrey titles and has over 10 girls playing at county level or higher. 2021/22 saw the school field its first ever girls’ first XI

Post-pandemic changes

The school has continued to do lots of repetition to help refine batting, bowling and fielding techniques, with the exercises designed to be

copied individually and at home Fixtures Over 200 per year, including matches against Epsom College, RGS Guildford and Hurstpierpoint and midweek fixtures against Eton and Harrow. This year’s Cricket Week featured a fixture against MCC Facilities Six indoor nets with access to video analysis, gym and two studios for technical drills, six outdoor nets, five cages, five grass cricket squares, two astroturf wickets Club/county a liation Weybridge CC

Best prospect Top-order batter and wicketkeeper Ollie Pascall has been playing for Surrey U18s since he was 14 and has represented Surrey 2nd XI. Charlotte Lambert,

a lethal allrounder, plays for Surrey and South East Stars 2nd XI Cricketers of note Adam and Ben Hollioake (England and Surrey), Tim O’Gorman (Derbyshire), Matt Church (Worcestershire), Will Jacks (England U19 and Surrey, left) Cultural cricketers Richard Moore (head of MI5), James Tindall (Olympic hockey player)

Brief history St George’s College was founded in 1869 by a Belgian Catholic order of priests. Initially in Croydon, the school moved to Weybridge in 1884 and became co-educational in 1998. The school has a strong cricketing history, dating back to PGH Fender (Surrey and England) who attended St George’s pre-WWI What sets the school apart? The school’s ground sta provide

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

A state-of-the-art activity centre helps explain why participation is as healthy as ever at St George’s.

Opened just before Covid struck, the centre –approximately the size of 12 badminton courts – features a glass floor, illuminated by LED lights highlighting whichever court or pitch one chooses when selecting via the control panel.

St George’s head of cricket, David Keightley, puts its construction at the heart of all the good things taking place within the school’s cricket programme.

He said: “We are extremely lucky to have this state-of-the-art centre which gives both cricket and sports as a whole opportunity to work concurrently. With six indoor nets

available and then further space for other drills, we are well equipped.

“We have four cages available for grass wicket practice and four squares with two artificial pitches. Our groundsta are unbelievable; they make sure the game is kept on and allow us use of the pitches when we want – quite di erent to what I am used to at club cricket!”

Keightley is keen to stress the commitment of the sta as a major reason in both St George’s success on the field and the school’s debut in the The Cricketer’s guide.

“To reach the top 100 is a huge accomplishment and testament to the dedication of the sta . Their work and enthusiasm over the last couple of years has been incredible and I cannot thank them enough – especially the academic sta who

students with the best facilities

Finest moment on the field This year, an U13 girl took a hat-trick in the first over of her first hard-ball game. She is now a regular in the school’s A team

Recent progress Participation levels have almost doubled in after-school sessions for U12, U13 and U14 (boys and girls). The school has facilitated over 200 fixtures, introduced four new teams this year, and hosted a sixa-side festival for year five pupils from local schools

Future plans Eight retractable outdoor nets are being built for the 2023 season. A girls’ Cricket Week is in the pipeline, with the intention of giving every pupil at least one match Tours Pre-season trip to La Manga. This will rotate on a two-year basis with a UK-based tour

aren’t in or around the sports department all the time but play a vital role in helping the programme to thrive and survive. It gives opportunity for the pupils to come and play cricket and be passionate about it. We are really happy with where we are at the moment with both boys’ and girls’ cricket.

“Girls’ participation has seen a boom in the last four or five years while England’s 2019 World Cup victory has seen a resurgence in boys’ participation too, highlighted by the 27 teams we have across the school.

“The Hundred’s exposure for the women’s game has been a massive success while the 2017 World Cup victory was also a big factor in why we are now seeing, and will continue to see, county-level players such as Charlotte Lambert coming through. The development of the mental side of her game as well as technical is there for all to see and she, along with Ollie Pascall, are great role models for players at the school who want to go on and strive to succeed in the game.”

Head of cricket

David Keightley

Nurturing Cricketing Exceeence

ST JOHN’S SCHOOL, LEATHERHEAD

Epsom Rd, Leatherhead KT22 8SP

Established 1851

Number of pupils 835

Director of cricket David Hammond Teams 19 teams. Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13AB, U12AB. Girls: U15, U14, U13AB, U12AB Post-pandemic changes St John’s play more fixtures against local schools and have increased the number of teams. Softball and hardball games for the girls give pupils greater choice

Fixtures 180 fixtures this summer, including the school’s prestigious end of season 1st XI festival against Brentwood School, Ipswich School and Abingdon. Other notable matches include MCC, Forty Club, KCS Wimbledon, Epsom College, Reigate Grammar and St George’s Weybridge

Facilities Four indoor nets, four outdoor grass squares, six open astroturf nets, a new four-lane, fully enclosed astroturf net facility

Club/county a liation Ashtead CC, Essex and Surrey. The latter use the school’s facilities for some county age-group matches and senior men’s pre-season training

Best prospect Luke Patterson is an exciting batter who is both technically sound and able to take bowling attacks apart. He is currently involved in the Surrey U17 set-up

Cricketers of note Ben Geddes (Surrey), David Balcombe

(Hampshire)

Cultural cricketers Field Marshal Bernard Montgomery (army o cer)

Brief history Sport is a cornerstone of life at St John’s, with over 90 per cent of pupils representing the school in one activity or another, and cricket is a major sport for all pupils in the summer term. The school aims to provide cricketers of all ages and abilities with the chance to take part and represent the school. Pupils are

also encouraged to play at the elite level and represent their county, region or country

What sets the school apart? Inclusion and encouragement are fundamental to the school’s ethos. St John’s School like to win but will always focus on participation levels across its student body. The school also has strong relationships with Surrey and Essex to help pupils achieve their full potential Finest moment on the field Winning the county cup at U14 in 2016

Recent progress Girls’ cricket at St John’s continues to grow. The school now has more girls playing than ever before and their enthusiasm to learn is fantastic

Future plans A new four-lane net facility has just been constructed which all pupils have access to in order to improve their skills

Tours The senior squad and an U15 squad will travel to Dubai in Easter 2023 – the perfect preparation for a busy summer term! Previous destinations include Sri Lanka, Desert Springs and La Manga

ST LAWRENCE COLLEGE

College Rd, Ramsgate CT11 7AE

Established 1879

Number of pupils 440 Head of cricket Seth Simmons Professional Geraint Jones (England, Kent and Gloucestershire) Teams Boys: Sports Excellence XI, 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB, Kirby 1st XI, Kirby 2nd XI, Kirby 3rd XI, Kirby 4th XI. Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14, U13ABC, U12 Girls’ cricket St Lawrence o ers girls’ cricket in both the junior and senior schools, with softball and hardball cricket o ered from U9 onwards. The school has reached national quarterfinals at U15 (twice) and U18 Post-pandemic changes Cricket continues to be played until October half-term before the winter programme sets in. During lockdown, communication between Kent CCC

and the school’s cricket scholars increased and this has continued post-pandemic. Coaching videos were introduced as part of this Fixtures Over 75 across all teams, including fixtures against MCC, Tonbridge School, Sevenoaks School and Band of Brothers Facilities Four pitches on site (plus one at Broadstairs CC), four outdoor artificial nets, two indoor nets, grass nets are used across the four pitches Club/county a liation Sandwich Town, Canterbury, Broadstairs,

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

With a pool of just 440 pupils to choose from, St Lawrence College is the whole that is greater than the sum of its parts.

Featuring in The Cricketer’s top 100 for the third year on the bounce, head of cricket Seth Simmons took stock.

“It’s a wonderful milestone and an identifier that we have something good going on here. The hard work starts each new school year but we are delighted – it’s a wonderful achievement for a school our size.

“We coach and have provision for every single child, catering for those who have never picked up a bat before, right through to those who have played second-class cricket. We have just had 10 one-on-one sessions ranging from year 5s up to the upper-sixth – wherever pupils are on their journey, we will progress them to the

Whitstable, Chestfield CCs and Kent. St Lawrence is a Kent Hub school, providing additional coaching for youth players throughout the winter Best prospect Duncan Moore (Kent U17)

Cricketers of note Geraint Jones, Kalea Moore (South East Stars, Northern Superchargers)

Cultural cricketers John Ironmonger (novelist)

Brief history The earliest surviving photograph of cricket at St Lawrence dates back to 1882. The school’s most

next stage of development.”

Despite the low numbers and relative infancy of the programme, it is remarkable that 80 girls play cricket throughout the school with A and B teams in each year group. They now have five girls on the Kent pathway along with three boys and have an ongoing sports excellence programme, which includes an exchange programme with a school in South Africa.

“We have a partnership with St Benedict’s and are sending Kent 2nd XI player Duncan Moore on exchange to expose him to the tough conditions and players out there. We have sent three players in the last four years which is fantastic but success isn’t measured by how many shirts you have on the wall in the pavilion; for me, it’s helping pupils develop a long-term love for the game.”

It seems Duncan isn’t the only Moore

successful year was in 1927 under the captaincy of future headmaster R Perfect. Cricket has continued to grow over the last century and the school runs a very extensive cricket programme

What sets the school apart?

St Lawrence host an annual cricket week which includes three declaration matches, one 40-over match and one T20 match for the boys and two T20s for the girls

Finest moment on the field R Perfect scored the first and only double century in the school’s history against Hythe CC in 1927

Recent progress The school’s extensive girls programme continues to grow. It is now in line with the boys, including regular winter training, entering national competitions, and (as of 2021) a girls Cricket Week. A group of pupils were taken on a trip to Lord’s during 2021/22, which was a fantastic experience

Future plans The school is investing in six new artificial nets on Newlands Field as well as a fourth pitch, taking them to five total. A new pavilion is in the pipeline. Strengthening the relationship between Kent and St Lawrence is also a priority Tours U13 tour to Birmingham in summer 2023 (five days); Y10 tour to Desert Springs in 2024

making their way in the game. Sister Kalea represents Kent Women, South East Stars and the Northern Superchargers and featured for England A versus South Africa in the summer. “A huge success for the school,” Simmons said. To cap it o , 2005 Ashes hero and gloveman Geraint Jones helps head up the programme and plays a key role.

Simmons said: “He loves the ethos of the school and has immersed himself into the culture. He is a business teacher, housemaster and involved at all levels on the cricket side. Despite his numerous commitments, he has time for everyone and he’s not just there for the academy players. He is used to facing 85mph balls with fours slips and a gully, but is now throwing underarm tennis balls to pupils who have never held a bat.

“He has brought an elite mentality to the school along with the mantra of ‘sacrifice’. It is slim pickings to reach the pinnacle of the sport, which is why he has given our best players the onus to succeed. He is proof of that.”

Head of cricket Seth Simmons

Foundedin1879,StLawrenceCollegeisathrivingindependent boardinganddayschool,providingafirstclasseducationforboys andgirlsfromNurserythroughtoSixthForm.LocatedinRamsgate, KenttheSchoolhaseasyaccesstoLondon-only75minutesaway, andGatwickandHeathrowunder2hours.

CricketatStLawrenceCollegehascomealongwayinrecentyears. Notonlyhaveincreasedpupilnumberspushedlevelsofparticipation incricketmuchhigher,buttheschool’s newapproachandethoshave drivensuccessfurtherstill.Thestandardandamountofcoaching availablehasbeencentraltopupils’success.

Wealwayscaterforallindividualswhetherit’stheirfirstexperience playingcricketoriftheyareanestablished2ndClassCountycricketer. WehavehadthreeKentCricketAcademyScholarsinthelastfour yearswhichistestimonytotheprogrammethatwehaveinplaceand wearedelightedthatourcricketprogrammeisrenownedtoa pupilstoflourish.

ST PETER’S YORK 13–18

Queen Anne’s Rd, York YO30 7WA

Established 627

Number of pupils 1,200 (3-18)

Master in charge Gareth Sharp (head of boys’ games)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, Development XI (U17/U16), U15AB, U14AB. Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14 Girls’ cricket The programme restarted in 2021 and is gathering pace, especially in the prep school Fixtures Over 300 were played this summer, from U9 to 1st XI. St Peter’s played in three festivals, hosted tournaments, and enjoyed fixtures against Sedbergh, Ampleforth, MCC,

STAMFORD SCHOOL

Brazenose House, St. Paul’s Street, Stamford PE9 2BE

Established 1532

Number of pupils 680

Director of cricket Dean Headley (England, Middlesex and Kent)

Professional Michael O’Connor

Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U17, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABC

Girls’ cricket Stamford is a boys school until sixth form. Girls can play in the senior teams

Post-pandemic changes Cricket is thriving post-pandemic. The school plays more formats, including variant pairs, two innings games, and T20s as well as traditional matches

Fixtures 250-plus fixtures in a normal year, including matches against MCC, Oakham, Oundle, Bedford, Trent College and Repton – there are lots of great rivalries in the East Midlands Facilities Indoor nets with four lanes and an array of bowling machines (Bola junior and professional, Merlyn), six new artificial lanes, 10

Yorkshire Gents and Durham. A clash with Pocklington, dating back 120 years, is the highlight of the calendar Facilities Two sports hall with four indoor lanes each, astroturf net area with eight retractable nets, eight grass nets with roll-on cages, four senior grounds (three turf, one artificial), two junior grounds Club/county a liation York CC and developing links with Yorkshire CCC and Warwickshire CCC after hosting fixtures against their EPP sides

Best prospect Top-order batter and leg-spinner Wills Bennison is part of Yorkshire U15 and the ECB U15 North of England squad. Wills captained the North to victory, scored a Bunbury 100 and set a festival

record partnership of 214 this season. He is was high in the schools averages nationally

Cricketers of note Jonny Bairstow (England and Yorkshire), Norman Yardley (England and Yorkshire), Steven Coverdale (Yorkshire and Northamptonshire), Frank Mitchell (England and Yorkshire), David Kirby (Cambridge University and Leicestershire)

Cultural cricketers Harry Gration (journalist), John Barry (composer, below)

Brief history The third-oldest school in the UK and the fourth-oldest in the world, St Peter’s School is an independent, co-educational day and boarding school (3-18) in the heart of York. The first recorded game of cricket played at St Peter’s was in 1853 when the school XI played Pocklington. Cricket lies at the centre of the sporting calendar and home fixtures take place against the stunning backdrops of York Minster (1st XI) and the river Ouse Finest moment on the field HMC National T20 North of England finalists for the last four years and U13 IAPS finalists nine times in the past 10 years (won three times). Individually, Ben Lodge struck six sixes in an over in 2018 and Matthew Roberts scored 108 not out o just 45 balls in a T20 game in 2019

Future plans St Peter’s plan to install new NV Play Cricket cameras and software in 2023. A new sports pavilion is also in the o ng Tours Desert Springs in 2023 (preseason), Sri Lanka or Dubai in 2024. Training camps have previously been held in Spain and across the UK

outdoor nets with full 40m run-ups, main square with 15 strips, second square with eight strips and two new artificial wickets Club/county a liation Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Lincolnshire, Bedfordshire and Huntingdonshire Best prospect 17-year-old Josh Hull (Leicestershire Academy) is a 6’ 7” left-arm seam wizard. Leg spinner Rohan Kundaje is involved with Northamptonshire

Cricketers of note MJK Smith (Leicestershire, Warwickshire and England), Shan Masood (Derbyshire and Pakistan), Zak Chappell (England Lions, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire), Joey Evison (England Lions and Nottinghamshire)

Cultural cricketers Simon Hodgkinson (England rugby), Ian Sta ord (author), Colin Dexter (Inspector Morse creator), Nick Anstee (former Lord Mayor of London)

Brief history Cricket was played at Stamford as early as 1771 but organised games only came into

fashion in the 19th century. By 1885, the school was playing cricket on its own ground, but this was too small. This was soon expanded into the ground which is played on today What sets the school apart? The beautiful, thatched pavilion and the hospitality all sides receive here Finest moment on the field 56 boys toured Sri Lanka in 2022. In 2017, the U15s became Midlands champions in the ESCA one-day cup while in 2019, the U17s were regional champions. At the Bunbury Cup, the U14s were national runners-up in 2021 and the U15s reached the final in 2022 after capturing the Midlands crown.

They also reached the last 16 of the National U15 T20 Cup

Recent progress Stamford completed their first tour after Covid-19. Participation continues to boom, with many boys playing late into the exam term Tours Sri Lanka in 2024 in partnership with Stamford High School. The school is committed to touring every two years for year 9 and 10 as an open age-group

STOWE SCHOOL

Stowe, Buckingham MK18 5EH

Established 1923

Number of pupils 920 Director of cricket James Knott (Surrey and Bedfordshire)

Coaches Phil Arnold (master in charge, Devon), Andy O’Connor, David Ripley, James Mellor Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U17, U15ABC, U14ABCD. Girls: Senior XI (5th/6th form), junior XI (3rd/4th form)

Girls’ cricket The girls train and play regular midweek fixtures. There are plans to start teams at U15 and U14 in 2022/23, as well as a 1st XI Post-pandemic changes Stowe have a mini-season in September where the 1st XI play Sunday fixtures

Fixtures Stowe participate in the Silk Trophy with Eton and Shrewsbury as well as hosting Harrow and Malvern College for a 100-ball festival. Regular fixtures are held against touring sides, county sides and MCC

Facilities Four lanes of indoor nets, three Bola machines, one Merlyn bowling machine, one Bola fielding machine, 11 lanes of turf nets, 10 lanes of astroturf nets, seven turf squares Club/county a liation Strong links with Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire plus Buckingham Town, Stony Stratford, and Dinton Best prospect Aadi Sharma (Northamptonshire academy) has already played for the county’s 2nd XI and was highest run-scorer for South & West at last year’s Bunbury Festival. The Year 5 boy scored more than 1,000 runs for the school last summer. Cricketers of note Ben Duckett

Brief history Stowe opened with its first 99 pupils in 1923. A partnership with the National Trust has helped maintain the grounds while in 2003, the school became co-educational Finest moment on the field Winning the national under-17 plate in September. Winning the Silk Trophy in 2021. Going into the final day, three teams were in contention for the trophy before Stowe clinched it after winning a tight, rain-a ected game

Recent progress The school purchased the NV Live Camera system, which has improved performance analysis and live streaming of fixtures. Zing stumps have added style to Stowe’s coloured clothing matches. A new cup competition (the David Capel Cup) has been created – featuring Rugby, Oundle, and Uppingham schools –and Stowe won the inaugural title

Future plans Stowe has formed a link with Buckingham High, a local state school. Four lanes of astroturf nets are being laid and plans have been drawn up for an indoor cricket centre

Tours The 1st XI are touring Cape Town in February 2023. An U15 preseason tour to Spain is also planned

TAUNTON SCHOOL

Staplegrove Road, Taunton TA2 6AD

Established 1847

Number of pupils 620 Director of cricket Peter Sanderson

Professional Marcus Trescothick (England and Somerset)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U16, U15 Girls’ cricket The girls programme is split into two streams – high performance and fun cricket. Girls can also join the boys programme and be selected for boys teams

Post-pandemic changes Cricket at Taunton has become stronger since lockdown, including increased participation. September cricket has been discussed as a possible initiative

Fixtures Notable matches include Millfield, King’s College, Clifton, Sherborne and MCC

Facilities 12 grass net pitches split into four bays, 15 artificial nets including seven indoor lanes, a main hall for indoor hardball games, six main squares, ‘rabbit’ pitches for softball matches, three bowling machines Club/county a liation Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset and Somerset Cricket Board. Somerset’s youth and academy teams use the school’s facilities and county coaches frequently assist with school sessions

Best prospect Oscar Coleman, Logan Dupont, Kian Roberts, Ben Mason and Ollie Heard are all involved with Somerset. Brooke Oliver-Whittaker made her senior Somerset debut in year 10

Cricketers of note Tom Abell, Adam Dibble (both Somerset), Jodie Dibble (Somerset, Western Storm and England), Aftab Habib (Middlesex, Essex, Leicestershire and England), John Jameson (Warwickshire and England), John Cameron (West Indies)

Cultural cricketers Geo rey Cox (Conservative MP), Alan Gibson (cricket writer), Jeremy Wright (attorney general)

Brief history Taunton School was established in 1847 and merged with Weirfield School in 1976, becoming co-educational in the process. Sport is a major part of school life with Tom Abell its best product. Peter Sanderson runs cricket from year three to senior level and since his appointment in 2016, the number of players in school teams and county age-groups has increased. The school is proud to o er an all-round sporting education What sets the school apart?

The enthusiasm sta bring to the programme, the school’s strong links with Somerset, and commitment to ensuring all pupils have access to the same facilities regardless of ability

Finest moment on the field Every county and regional cup won by the school and Tom Abell scoring 1,156 runs in a single season. The girls reaching the regional indoor finals in 2022 was a proud moment

Recent progress Improving the fixture programme and increasing the number of pupils involved in county pathways to 70

Future plans The outdoor facilities are being upgraded to increase the number of grass and artificial nets

Tours Arch Tournament in Dubai plus a pre-season trip to London

(Northants and England), Graeme White (Northants, Notts and England Lions), Mark Nelson (Northants and England U19s), Ben Howgego (Northants), Sean Morris, Rob White (both Northants)

Director of cricket James Knott

THE BISHOP’S STORTFORD HIGH SCHOOL

London Rd, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3LU

Established 1950

Number of pupils 1200

Head of cricket Matthew Hale Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, U16, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13AB, U12ABC Post-pandemic changes

Participation increased during the pandemic. Early morning training sessions (before school) have now become a part of school culture in addition to lunch and evening coaching Fixtures Around 75 across the season, with notable matches against MCC, Felsted, West Essex Cricket Board, Guernsey Cricket Board and Elizabeth College Guernsey Facilities Indoor sports hall with a four-lane net facility, separate o -site sports facility at Jobber’s Wood which includes a pavilion, grass square and two artificial pitches. The school also uses the Herts & Essex Cricket Centre

THE CANTERBURY ACADEMY

Knight Ave, Canterbury CT2 8QA

Established 2010

Number of pupils 2,400 Director of sport Phil Relf Professional David Fulton (Kent) Teams Six. Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15, U13. Girls: U15, U13

Girls’ cricket There are dedicated girls’ teams at U15 and U13. Senior girls can play with the boys

Fixtures The senior sides play between 12-16 matches across the summer. Most notable match is a development friendly against Tonbridge School Facilities The school uses facilities at Polo Farm Sports Club and other local clubs for training and matches Club/county a liation Canterbury CC, Whitstable CC, Chestfield CC, and St Lawrence & Highland Court CC. Canterbury Academy regularly supply students to act as coaches, umpires and leaders at these clubs and local primary school competitions

Best prospect Jaydn Denly, a top-

indoor facility near Sawbridgeworth Club/county a liation

Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, West Essex, Bishop’s Stortford CC and HECC

Best prospect Alex Peirson (Cambridgeshire) is a left-handed top-order batter and o -spin bowler Cultural cricketers Greg James (radio DJ)

Brief history Sport became a focus at the school under Ian Shaw in the 1980s, with a new sports hall with four lanes (1985) and a pavilion opened by Denis Compton (1995) helping the development of cricket. In 2001, the school opened a purpose-built

o -site facility (Jobber’s Wood) which has contributed to increased participation and a full fixture card What sets the school apart? The school’s focus is to promote high levels of participation and a lifelong love of cricket. Sta across the school, regardless of academic discipline, support the sport’s development and older players are encouraged to work with newer/young pupils to develop their game

Finest moment on the field Bishop’s Stortford defeated MCC in June 2016 despite many senior players, including the captain, opening bowler and leading run-scorer, being unavailable due to exams. An inexperienced XI restricted MCC to 180 for 6 and backed it up with some mature batting Recent progress The school has re-emerged from the pandemic and successfully reinstated its touring

programme, including taking 83 pupils across three separate tours to Guernsey (years 9, 10 and 11).

External coaches continue to be brought in to support sessions, and on the pitch, the gap is closing between Bishop’s Stortford and the independent schools Future plans To strengthen the school’s partnership with Luke Humphrey and HECC, including moving the HECC indoor facility to Jobber’s Wood. This will give the pupils greater access to a high-quality training facility and first-rate coaches. The school is also due to move to a new site in 2023. More C and D teams are also in the pipeline as participation increases as is deepening the school’s relationship with Elizabeth College, Guernsey

Tours The senior squad will tour Dubai and Sri Lanka in July/August 2023, annual Channel Islands tour (Guernsey)

sessions which encompass technical, tactical, mental and physical development. The school’s sixth form programme is available to committed players at no cost and enables them to access high-quality facilities and coaching. The overall ethos of the school commits to supporting students across the entire curriculum and sport receives substantial support from the senior leadership and directors

order batter and left-arm spinner, is on the fringes of Kent’s senior academy. In 2022, he made his debut for Kent’s 2nd XI, appearing in Championship matches against Northamptonshire (33 runs) and Middlesex (48 not out)

Cricketers of note Ryan Davies (Kent, Somerset and Durham) Brief history Cricket has grown considerably since 2013, with the school first fielding teams in 2014. They now feature regularly in the

latter stages of the county cup. A small player pool provides students with the opportunity to play up and challenge themselves against older players. Canterbury Academy pride themselves on making sure every student has a positive cricket experience What sets the school apart? Canterbury Academy is one of only a few state schools in the southeast providing an intensive cricket programme, including daily training

Finest moment on the field Taking part in the inaugural The Cricketer Hundred competition for schools in Desert Springs in Easter 2022. Winning the U13 County Cup in 2019 Recent progress Earning the respect of leading independent schools through the way Canterbury play the game

Future plans Canterbury are in the process of establishing a partnership with The Root Academy that will enable the school to deliver high-quality coaching in local primary schools

Tours The 1st XI went to Desert Springs in 2022 for a tournament organised by The Cricketer

THE JOHN LYON SCHOOL

Middle Rd, Harrow HA2 0HN

Established 1876

Number of pupils

Master in charge Chris Peploe (Middlesex and Berkshire) Professional Shane Cloete (Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe over 50s)

Teams 13 boys teams (U12-U19), including C&D teams at U12 and U13, and two U12 girls teams (expanding to four in 2022/23 to accompany the new intake)

Girls’ cricket The school became co-educational in 2021/22 and

three major sports at John Lyon. Individual talent is spread between age groups but the school prides itself on inclusivity and all students are allowed to participate. Angus Fraser coached at the school for two years and assisted the U14s in winning the Lord’s Taverners, which has never been repeated. The school has been embarking on a biennial tour to South Africa since the 1990s

launched a girls’ programme which every pupil has access to.

Formats played include 11-a-side and pairs cricket and as the number of girls in the school grows so too will the number of sides. This year, two girls made history by playing in boys matches

Post-pandemic changes

Cricket returned to normal in 2021/22 and the school is committed to promoting participation above pre-pandemic levels

Fixtures 105-115 per year depending on cup runs. Notable fixtures include MCC, Frogs CC, Old Lyonians and the school’s Cricket Week

Facilities Three grass squares,

600 will squares,

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

The John Lyon School has grand plans for its girls’ cricket programme.

The school only went co-educational in 2021, but master in charge of cricket Chris Peploe is already putting in place a blueprint which, he hopes, will elevate the sport for everyone.

Peploe and John Lyon’s director of sport, Shane Cloete, are proud of their inclusion in The Cricketer’s Schools Guide for 2023, which they believe is reward for their commitment to providing a cricketing education for all their pupils.

“As a small school, it is an honour and privilege to be involved and a reflection of what we o er here at John Lyon – we are very proud of the programme in place where we ensure it is accessible to all. It’s a programme that is

one artificial wicket, three indoor nets, 10 additional nets shared with Harrow School Club/county a liation Middlesex (including hosting Middlesex Over50s matches), Middlesex Schools Cricket, London Schools Cricket, and Harrow Borough

Best prospect Avi Patel (Berkshire) was formerly involved with Middlesex. In 12 matches in 2021/22, he scored 539 runs at 67.38, including a top-score of 104 not out – the school’s first century since 2017 Cricketers of note Kabir Toor (Middlesex and Kent), Ali Fraser (Middlesex), Chimnay Gupte (Oxford University)

Brief history Cricket is one of

ever-evolving and expanding,” Peploe said.

“Now we have gone co-ed, I am excited to deliver a programme befitting of both the boys and girls, and we are already seeing the benefits of that. Every girl last year had access to coaching, all represented the school in one form or another. We made sure that every girl had exposure to cricket regardless of ability or love for the game as it is so central to what we o er here at John Lyon.

“We are very conscious that cricket has overtaken rounders, with most girls’ schools now having cricket as part of their curriculum. It will be a slow burner and a challenge but one I am relishing; I’m most looking forward to drawing out and developing new cricketers, building contacts with outside clubs and counties and replicating what we do for the boys”.

What sets the school apart? Despite the school’s small size, they continue to produce strong on-field results. More important, however, is the all-round education o ered to all pupils and which forms the cornerstone of the school’s ethos Finest moment on the field 1st XI Middlesex Cup winners (2019 and 2021), U15 county cup finalists (2022) Recent progress Cricket continues to grow at the school, with more students engaging in the sport and rediscovering their love for it postpandemic. The introduction of girls cricket has also been a huge success Future plans In order to keep Cricket Week relevant, the school are considering introducing a 100-ball competition or a T20 match. Plans to improve the facilities at the sports ground are in the pipeline

Tours Optimistic that touring will soon return

With each passing year, the number of girls at John Lyon is increasing, thus widening the potential talent pool. Peploe sees the start of the school year as an opportunity to test the water.

He said: “Most schools use the start of the year as a break, but I am using this time to introduce them to cricket and discover potential. We want girls to make history with the school and show the same enthusiasm and promise as the two girls who were good enough to make the boys’ year seven team last year.”

The school encourages participation at all levels, an initiative best shown through their ‘Inclusive Week’ where all year seven and eight boys and girls play competitive fixtures. Meanwhile, the John Lyon boys’ senior side now has nearly 40 players knocking at the door.

Peploe said: “My remit is to make everyone want to have cricket in their lives when they leave school at all levels. If you want to make it, we will push you. Ultimately, our programme is here for all.”

Master in charge Chris Peploe

Cricket on the Hill

Cricket is at the heart of our sporting programme. As a co-educational school, we pride ourselves on delivering a comprehensive cricketing programme that meets our sporting ethos of ‘Sport for all with the pursuit of Excellence.’

All pupils with the desire to play have the opportunity to do so and are very much encouraged to participate. Our ‘elite pathway’ supports those players who aspire to perform at the highest level.

www.johnlyon.org

THE JUDD SCHOOL

Brook St, Tonbridge TN9 2PN

Established 1888

Number of pupils 1400 Head of cricket Ralph Richardson Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABCD, U12ABCDEF

Girls’ cricket Girls join Judd School in the sixth form and those interested can join the boys programme

Post-pandemic changes The number of students wanting to be involved in the sport, notably competitive fixtures, has increased since before the pandemic

Fixtures Approximately 120, including matches against MCC, Eltham College, King’s Canterbury, Sevenoaks, Sutton Valance School and Caterham

Facilities Grass cricket square (plus one artificial strip), eight artificial nets, four-lane indoor sports hall on site; two grass squares (plus one artificial strip), one additional artificial strip, five artificial nets o site

Best prospect Ekansh Singh (U16) made his debut for Kent 2nd XI in

2022. He is consistently one of the school’s leading run-scorers

Cricketers of note David Fulton, Julian Thompson (both Kent)

Cultural cricketers Cecil Powell (Nobel laureate)

Brief history Cricket has been played at Judd School since it was established in 1888 and is the main summer sport. The school’s objective is to develop a love for playing the game at whatever standard and takes as much pride in students who continue to play for local club sides as those who go on to play higher representative levels. The school aims to provide opportunities for all

abilities to represent the school in fixtures and on overseas tours

What sets the school apart?

Judd is a state grammar school that continues to run a full Saturday fixture programme for all teams from year 7 to sixth form. The school regularly appears in the final stages of county competitions in all age groups, winning the 2022 U13 cup and finishing as runners-up in the U12 cup. Judd runs a winter academy for up to 90 students as well as o ering a senior tour to Barbados and an intermediate tour to Dubai

Recent progress In 2021/22, the

opportunity to represent the school in competitive fixtures, including fielding six sides at U12

Future plans Judd School is developing a link with Invicta Cricket Coaching who run coaching sessions during the winter at the school’s indoor facilities and cricket courses during the holidays (including a batting master class with Jason Roy). Invicta also provide a cricket coach for the school’s games afternoon in the summer to help students with technical improvements to their games

Tours Barbados in February 2023

THE LEYS

Fen Causeway, Cambridge CB2 7AD

Established 1875

Number of pupils 575

Head of cricket Richard Kaufman (Northamptonshire Cricket Board)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U13ABC

Girls’ cricket The school runs seven girls teams and reached the National U15 School Sport Magazine T20 competition final in 2018, losing to Millfield

Fixtures 18, including matches against MCC, Felsted, Ipswich, Framlingham and Free Foresters. The school’s end of season cricket festival features St Paul’s, Fettes and

Monkton Combe

Facilities Purpose-built two-lane indoor school, two bowling machines, video analysis equipment, two grass cages, six artificial lanes, four grass squares Club/county a liation Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Northamptonshire, Essex Best prospect Noah Thain (Year 12) is an opening batter and seam bowler. He has represented Essex 2nd XI in both four-day and T20 cricket in 2022. Issy Routledge (Sunrisers Academy and Middlesex) is an opening batter and o -spinner who frequently plays alongside the boys Cricketers of note Justin Benson (Leicestershire and Ireland), Andrew Bramley (Northamptonshire 2nd XI) Brief history The Leys was established in 1875 and introduced cricket to the curriculum in its second term. Bernard Holloway was the school’s most distinguished cricketer pre-WWI, playing for Sussex and a touring MCC side in the West Indies. The school, which is situated next to the river Cam at the heart of Cambridge, has strong links with Northamptonshire CCC and continues to punch above its weight on the field. Cambridgeshire play at least one Minor County Senior fixture per year at The Leys

Finest moment on the field The school’s 1st XI reached the last eight of the HMC T20 competition in 2017

and 2019 (winning the regional titles in both years), the U15 girls reached the final of the Schools Sport T20 in 2018, and the U18 girls reached the last four of the nationals in 2021 Recent progress The girls’ programme continues to blossom, with the 1st XI reaching the last four of a national competition.

Individually, Issy Routledge took five wickets for the boys 1st XI against MCC in 2021. An Essex Schools League featuring Framlingham,

Brentwood, Royal Hospital School, Felsted and Ipswich began in 2022, with the schools playing block fixtures against one another and each block counting for points. Essex CCC are running the competition and monitor the best players

Future plans Expanding livestreaming service of all home fixtures on the 1st XI square

Tours A pre-season trip to Spain in 2023

MEET THE DIRECTOR OF SPORT

It was quite the summer for The Leys’ incoming director of sport, Carla Rudd.

The announcement of her arrival came hot on the heels of her side, Southern Brave, finishing as runners-up in The Hundred, following a Lord’s final defeat by Oval Invincibles.

of sport Carla Rudd

Rudd divides her time between Sussex, Southern Vipers and Southern Brave, and is now into her first term at The Leys, where she plans to immerse herself into her role.

“Firstly, I want to settle in and see how the school operates and assess what can be improved. I’m impressed with how we support our athletes here and I’d like to continue that,” she said.

“They receive specialist support with strength and conditioning programmes as well as one-to-one and small group sessions which similar schools do not o er,” Rudd said.

“I would like to look at how we develop well-rounded individuals and develop nutrition and the psychology side of things, which will give them that extra edge and push on to that professional level - which I know a lot of them aspire to reach.”

Rudd is keen to create a professional environment from which the pupils can reap benefits.

“Throughout my experiences, I know what a high standard of sport looks like, how to implement this into a programme, and the

specific skills required to get to that next level,” she said.

“I believe my coaching allows me to enter a new environment and make it professional, providing the tools for the pupils to excel: those extra one per cents that make the di erence.”

With the ongoing development and acceleration of women’s cricket in full flow, Rudd wants to improve provision for girls at The Leys.

“Girls’ cricket is going in the right direction; having a role model gives them that extra belief and I am already seeing drive and passion from the girls,” she said.

“I want to make sure they are given the same opportunities as the boys in terms of going on tour.

“We are going to be delivering an excellent programme at both elite and participation level for both boys and girls – everyone has the opportunity to participate in a fun and varied programme. Enjoyment is key, regardless of ability.”

Director

THE MANCHESTER GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Old Hall Ln, Manchester M13 0XT

Established 1515

Number of pupils 1,394 Director of sport Mike Watkinson (England and Lancashire)

Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U16, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12AB, U11ABCD, U10ABCD, U9ABCD, U8ABCD, plus development teams Post-pandemic changes The return to competitive cricket against other schools was greeted with enthusiasm, pride and passion by all of the pupils. Internal fixtures created a competitive environment within year group bubbles

Fixtures The 1st XI play around 25 matches per season, including fixtures against MCC, Sedbergh, Trent College and Shrewsbury School Facilities

Purpose-built

THE PERSE SCHOOL

Hills Rd, Cambridge CB2 8QF

Established 1615

Number of pupils 1250

Director of sport Glenn Kirkham, Sean Park (head of cricket)

Professional Jason Coleman (Parramatta CC)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC, Indoor – U15 and U13

Girls’ cricket Cricket is o ered for all age-groups (hardball and softball) and fixtures are played throughout the summer term, including the 1st XI entering the National T20. The school has enjoyed great success in the Lady Taverners Indoor tournament, with the U15 finishing third (2018) and fourth (2019) and the U13 finishing second (2019), and the Schools Magazine National Cup Post-pandemic changes More short-format and softball matches are o ered across the board

Fixtures Over 190 across the school, including 18 for the boys 1st XI.

sports hall (opened in 2015 by Mike Atherton) with four nets, three grass spaces (1st XI, intermediate and junior), six grass practice pitches, four outdoor artificial practice nets, two astroturf match pitches. Coverings are available for all outdoor pitches Club/county a liation Lancashire, Cheshire

Best prospect Arav Shetty, a batting o -spinner and 1st XI captain, regularly plays for Lancashire 2nd XI and is a member of their

or higher and runs an elite performers programme (EPP), but the emphasis remains on sport for all and ensuring pupils develop a lifelong love of cricket

Finest moment on the field Being crowned U15 National champions in 2015

Recent progress The various national lockdowns posed significant challenges, particularly in delivering the specialist cricket coaching for which the school is renowned.

Cricketers of note Mike Atherton (England and Lancashire, left), John Crawley (England, Lancashire and Hamsphire), Mark Chilton (Lancashire), George Bell (England U19 and Lancashire) Cultural cricketers

2nd XI and is a member of their academy Lancashire and Cultural cricketers

Notable fixtures include MCC, The Leys, Felsted and an end of season tour to Durham School, Newcastle Boys School or MTS Crosby. The girls’ 1st XI had seven fixtures in 2022 Facilities Six artificial nets, a roll-on cage, six indoor nets, three grounds (seven pitches total)

Club/county a liation Foxton Granta CC, Sa ron Walden CC, Thriplow CC, Cambridgeshire and Essex

Best prospect Bella Howarth (Lightning Academy and Essex) made her Essex debut aged 15, captains the school’s girls’ 1st XI, and

Herbert Toft (England rugby union), Robert Crawshaw (Olympic water polo), Douglas Lowe (athletics) Brief history Since the school moved out from the city centre to a new site in Fallowfield surrounded by pitches during the 1930s, the school has developed a strong cricketing heritage and is immensely proud of the players it has produced What sets the school apart? Every boy is important and can develop as a cricketer, irrespective of talent – that is the school’s philosophy. MGS has an excellent record of producing cricketers to county level

However, the school’s significant investment in physical and mental welfare throughout the pandemic, matched by the ingenious and creative ways the boys practised cricket at home, ensured the boys continued to develop despite the obstacles in their path

Future plans To return fully to the pre-pandemic, traditional cricketing programme which the school is known for and to o er pupils across all age-groups more opportunities to play cricket, both internally and in competitive fixtures

Tours Previous destinations include Abu Dhabi, Dubai and South Africa

has represented the boys teams at both U17 and 1st XI Cricketers of note Michael Pepper, Chris Pepper, Nikhil Goranthla (all Essex)

Cultural cricketers Ronald GW Norrish (Nobel Prize winner), Mark Saggers (journalist)

Brief history The earliest recorded cricket match at The Perse took place in 1856 and in 1884, regular fixtures were taking place against local village sides. The MCC fixture was introduced in the 1960s and in the 1980s, the school embarked on its first overseas tour. In 2013, the school was one of the first in

the country to introduce girls’ cricket across all year groups

What sets the school apart?

Cricket has been played at The Perse School for over 160 years. Two dozen teams are fielded across the upper school, providing an equal opportunity for both boys and girls while maintaining outstanding academic results

Finest moment on the field In 2006, the 1st XI won 14 matches in a row, including chasing 220 against Bedford in 30 overs, and were ranked in the top-10 schools in the Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack

Recent progress Over 40 boys and girls are competing at county level across the age-groups

Future plans To introduce alternative formats to cater for demand, especially at B and C-team level. A new sports centre with a purpose-built cricket facility is planned, which would improve winter coaching and allow cricket to be a games option in Michaelmas term Tours Sri Lanka (2023/24), 1st XI annual domestic tour, U15 MCS Oxford T20 festival

Director of sport Mike Watkinson

THE ROYAL HOSPITAL SCHOOL, IPSWICH

Holbrook, Ipswich IP9 2RX

Established 1712

Number of pupils 746

Head of cricket Paul Cohen

Professional Graham Napier (Essex)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC

Girls’ cricket Entering its seventh year on the curriculum, cricket is the primary summer sport and the programme matches the boys in terms of training and coaching.

Previously, pupils have received masterclass sessions from Lydia Greenway (England) and Kathryn Bryce (Lightning and Scotland)

Post-pandemic changes Pupils still have access to the online resources supplied during lockdown Fixtures 140-160 throughout summer term, including matches against MCC, XL Club and the British Army Women’s team

Facilities Five grass wickets, three astroturf wickets, four indoor nets, two bowling machines (including a TrueMan), plus a new six-lane facility from September 2022

Club/county a liation Mistley CC, Coggeshall CC, Su olk and Essex Best prospect Charlie Allison (Essex EPP) is a top-order batter and fast-medium bowler who played for Essex 2nd XI this summer, allrounder Alice Nickell (Su olk and Sunrisers), and Martha Hunter (Essex)

Cricketers of note Reece Topley (England, Essex, Hampshire

and Surrey)

Brief history Cricket has been part of life for pupils at RHS for decades. The sport grew in reputation under the expert mentoring of Don Topley (Essex), who served the school for 23 years. He handed over the reins to Paul Cohen in 2016 and in September of the same year, the Graham Napier Cricket Academy was established, run by the former cricketer. What sets the school apart? The school has a strong relationship with the Graham Napier Cricket Academy, which has established a high-profile centre of cricketing excellence, and regularly receives guest coaching sessions and masterclasses from current and former players. The Minor Counties Cricket Festival, which is held at RHS, celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2019. The school has a reputation as one of East Anglia’s leading independent schools but maintains an emphasis on cricket for everyone and fields A, B and C teams to give everyone a chance to play competitive fixtures Finest moment on the field Reaching the semi-final of the U13 National Cup (2019), winning the Su olk Cup (2018)

Recent progress The demand for girls’ cricket has resulted in more B-team fixtures than ever and the school now fields two senior teams

fields two senior teams

THE SKINNERS’ SCHOOL

St John’s Rd, Tunbridge Wells TN4 9PG

Established 1887

Number of pupils 1,119 Director of sport Will Burrows Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, Development XI, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABCDE

(England and Kent), Phil Edmonds (England and Middlesex)

Cultural cricketers Peter Carter (diplomat)

Brief history Although only 125 years old, Skinners’ is connected to the distinguished London Livery Company of the same name, which goes back to the fourteenth century. Since the construction of the original building back in 1887, further building has taken place in order to accommodate the current school roll, including a £2.7m sports hall opened in 2012

What sets the school apart? The school’s enthusiasm and passion for cricket. Despite Covid, there are now more students playing than ever before and all students have the opportunity to play competitive matches, both against other schools and in intra-school hardball and softball competitions. Even though Skinners’ is a day school, cricket often runs from 7.15am to 7.30pm

A new six-lane net facility will be in operation from September 2022. RHS is

Future plans A new six-lane net facility will be in operation from September 2022. RHS is also looking to embark on an outreach programme with local schools, primary schools and prep

local schools, primary schools and prep schools

Tours A tour to USA and Barbados was cancelled due to the pandemic

A tour to USA and Barbados was cancelled due to the pandemic

Post-pandemic changes Launched during lockdown due to restrictions on kit sharing, the school’s ‘Intro Cricket Kit Scheme’, which allows parents to buy second hand equipment (helmet, pads and gloves) for £35, is still popular. Cricket sessions continue to be o ered until early October, something the school never did prior to the pandemic, and the introduction of pairs cricket has increased participation Fixtures 133 across the whole school, including 20-25 for the 1st XI across a variety of formats. Notable fixtures include MCC, Tonbridge School, Band of Brothers and The Forty Club Facilities Five indoor nets with full run-ups, two Bola bowling machines, video analysis equipment, main cricket pitch with nine match pitches and five practice pitches, two artificial wickets for junior age-groups, one roll-on cage, new £160,000 enclosed net facility which includes five retractable nets and space for indoor games and fielding practice Club/county a liation Tunbridge Wells CC (sharing facilities), Linden Park CC and Southborough CC Best prospect Seamer Dan Pascal (Sussex U16) has been involved with Sussex since U10 Cricketers of note Bob Woolmer

Finest moment on the field Rowan MacDonald-Gay, aged 16, scored his maiden 1st XI century earlier in the season against King’s School, Canterbury. One of the school’s 12C cricketers took two wickets in two balls having never played cricket before joining Skinners’

Recent progress Participation levels continue to increase, and the new five-lane net facility has been game-changing Future plans To develop the main pavilion, put in a further grass square, and develop links with Southborough CC and local girls’ schools to help support girls’ cricket

Tours 42 students are going to UAE in April 2023

TIFFIN SCHOOL

Queen Elizabeth Rd, Kingston upon Thames KT2 6RL

Established 1880 Number of pupils 1200

Master in charge Martin Williams Professional Kapilan Balasubramaniam Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U16AB, U12-15 (various)

Girls’ cricket Remains in its infancy due to the pandemic. The school is co-educational in the sixth form Post-pandemic changes Early morning nets at 7am have proved remarkably popular across all age groups

Fixtures 150-plus, including fixtures against MCC, Incogniti and the annual Widger match which celebrates the life of former captain Widger Morley-Brown Facilities Four indoor nets, eight outdoor artificial nets, five grass squares, two astroturf wickets, batting cages Club/county a liation Surrey, Sunbury CC and several Surrey

Championship clubs

Best prospect Alex Cormack is an opening bowler (pace) and a forceful middle-order batter with centuries to his name. He is on Northamptonshire’s books, has played for Ti n 1st XI since he was 14 and represented Surrey state schools (U15) at The Oval in 2019

Cricketers of note Alec Stewart (England and Surrey), Mark Feltham (Surrey and Middlesex), Chris Aworth (Surrey), David Ottley (Middlesex), Gregor Kennis (Surrey and Somerset), Arun Harinath (Surrey, Leicestershire and Hampshire)

Cultural cricketers JeanChristophe Gray (political advisor), Gethin Anthony (actor), Johnny Lee Miller (actor, right)

Brief history The Brigadier Harper, headmaster during the post-war years, was responsible for putting cricket on the map and purchased the sports grounds at Hampton

TONBRIDGE SCHOOL

High St, Tonbridge TN9 1JP

Established 1553

Number of pupils 800 Master in charge Rob Stephen Professional Ian Baldock (Kent 2nd XI), Richie Oliver (Worcestershire) Teams 17 – 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, 6th XI, U16AB, U15ABCD, U14ABCDE

Post-pandemic changes Plans to run cricket sessions in the early part of the school year are under discussion Fixtures Roughly 160 fixtures per year. Notable matches include a two-day match against Bedford, the school’s annual cricket festival and the Cowdrey Cup – a six-team competition involving Radley, Charterhouse, Eton, Harrow and Wellington Facilities Seven grass squares, three astroturf wickets, ten grass nets, ten artificial nets and five indoor nets Club/county a liation Kent, Surrey and Essex CCCs; Tunbridge Wells CC, Sevenoaks Vine CC, Holmesdale CC, Linden Park CC, Tonbridge CC, Southborough CC and Cowdrey CC

Cricketers of note Colin Cowdrey (England, MCC and Kent), Graham Cowdrey (Kent), Roger Prideaux (England and Kent), Richard Ellison (England and Kent), Ed Smith (England, Kent and Middlesex), Zak Crawley (England and Kent), Marcus O’Riordan (Kent), Toby Pettman (Nottinghamshire)

Cultural cricketers Tim Rice-Oxley,

Court. Cricket flourished at the school in the 1960s and since then, there have been just three masters in charge. A hugely popular sport at Ti n, cricket is played before, during and after school

What sets the school apart? Ti n is a highly successful state grammar school where cricket plays a major role in the development of pupils. The commitment of the sta and enthusiasm of the pupils are second to none Finest moment on the field Beating the

MCC on a number of occasions, last summer’s run of six consecutive wins, and defeating some of the best private schools in the country

Recent progress The Year 7 group has gelled very well and is an exciting group of players

Future plans A tour to Dubai is on the horizon and the Caribbean is being mooted as a potential replacement for Sri Lanka in 2023 due to the political unrest. A new pavilion is planned for the school’s Hampton Court Ground which will combine two pavilions under one roof

Tours Netherlands (Den Haag) in July 2023 for the 1st XI, Devon in June 2023 for the U13 and U15 sides, and possibly West Indies in summer 2023

teams which have had plenty of success in The Cricketer Cup, as well as recent internationals Ed Smith and Zak Crawley. The season is shaped by the Cowdrey Cup blocks which run throughout the summer, the Bedford two-day match and a cricket festival with international teams to round o the season in the week after term ends. The position of the 1st XI pitch in the centre of the school, right beside the Chapel, has helped to maintain the popularity and success of the game

Dominic Scott, Richard Hughes, Tom Chaplin (musicians – Keane), Andy Zaltzman (TMS statistician)

Brief history Cricket was being played at Tonbridge School as early as 1851 while its first inter-school match was against Brighton College in 1856. Since then, the school has produced many fine cricketers which is best shown in its strong Old Tonbridgian

What sets the school apart? The Old Tonbridgians have won The Cricketer Cup 16 times, the most of any school, and reached the final on another six occasions. They are also the only school to lift the title three years in a row

Finest moment on the field

The school’s recent success in the Cowdrey Cup, notably being crowned champions in 2022. The 1st XI were unbeaten during their cup run – in all, they lost just one match in all competitions - and recorded impressive away wins at Eton and Harrow

TRENT COLLEGE

Derby Rd, Long Eaton, Nottingham NG10 4AD

Established 1871

Number of pupils 750

Head of cricket Scott Boswell (boys), Bethan Gammon (girls)

Professional Paul Johnson (Nottinghamshire), Jenny Gunn (England and Northern Diamonds)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U17, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABCDE. Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14, U13AB, U12AB

Girls’ cricket The school runs seven teams across the age groups

Post-pandemic changes The introduction of coloured kits and pink-ball cricket

Fixtures Over 180, including a notable clash with Repton and a twoday match against Millfield Facilities Five grass squares, 11 grass wickets (which can be used as nets), and four indoor lanes Club/county a liation Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire and several local clubs

Best prospect 18-year-old Fateh Landa (England Under-19 and Nottinghamshire) is a left-arm spinner, who has already made 12 List A appearances for Nottinghamshire; opening batter Mitch Wagsta (Derbyshire) made his 50-over debut in 2021; Kieran Pell (Leicestershire academy), Qundeel Haider,

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Innovation, inclusivity and inspiration are the key ingredients for success at Trent College. Head of boys’ cricket Scott Boswell has developed a recipe that caters for everyone at all levels, and not just on the playing side.

Boswell introduced umpire and scoring courses for pupils who might not be at the level of their C/D teams but who want to be involved and their success has grown.

Boswell said: “The ECB came to us around four years ago to produce a video promoting young umpires and o cials. We already had 10 umpires and six scorers back then… we now have umpires throughout the year groups who umpire and score their peers’ games. We’ve one lad in sixth form who was desperate to be involved in the senior side so I encouraged

Freddie McCann (both Nottinghamshire academy), Tom KentSmith (Derbyshire academy), Diya Badge (Loughborough Lightning academy)

Cricketers of note Sarah Glenn (England, Central Sparks, Trent Rockets and Worcestershire)

Brief history Though initially a formidable side, the Trent College XI included five teachers. Cricket came back with a vengeance in the 1970s, which included some Derbyshire John Player League matches being played at the school. Derbyshire and

Nottinghamshire 2nd XIs are regular visitors to play one-day matches. The school now boasts 25 teams and lives by the ‘3 Ps’ philosophy: participation, progression and performance What sets the school apart? Trent College has amazing facilities in beautiful grounds and the students are involved in cricket in many di erent capacities, from playing to umpiring and scoring. Being in close proximity to two first-class counties (Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire) gives students a clear pathway into the professional ranks

Finest moment on the field In 2019, the U13s and U17s both reached the National Cup quarter-finals while the U15s progressed to the 40-over and T20 national finals

Recent progress The U17 and U18 teams enjoyed lengthy cup runs in the national competitions while the U12 and U14 sides reached the county cup finals

Future plans A new four-lane astroturf net facility is under construction Tours Domestically, the school attends several festivals including Eastbourne Festival (1st XI and U14) and an U15 festival. In 2023, the U12s will tour York while 60 year 9/10 boys and girls will fly to Dubai. A senior tour to Spain is planned for 2024

him to take part in one of the courses and he was gifted a 1st XI kit and was in the team photo. He was proud as punch. “Keeping kids sustained in cricket for the rest of their lives whether that be as an umpire, scorer, administrator, 4th XI player on a Sunday or a first-class cricketer, the biggest winner for me is inspiring them to stay on in the game in whatever capacity.”

Boswell reckons last year saw their best ever 1st XI side with strong variation throughout the team, with two lads having gone on to play for Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. Girls’ cricket is also thriving with the school having mixed teams throughout the age groups with 15/16 involved in the boys teams right through to the senior sides.

“Sarah Glenn (Worcestershire, Central Sparks, Trent Rockets) played for two years in

the boys’ 1st XI which lit up girls’ cricket at the school. The mixed teams are the norm now and the boys don’t di erentiate. They have been brought up with coaching from Tash Farrant who has gone on to represent England, Kent and Oval Invincibles, and we now have Jenny Gunn (England, Northern Diamonds) as our cricket professional alongside Paul Johnson (Nottinghamshire). One of the best players I have ever seen is a girl who played in our under13s team last year. I would put my money on her playing for England and she’s already on the radar of Loughborough Lightning.”

Trent College runs a state school primary initiative with 16 local state schools on board. This sees Boswell and his senior players go out to schools and o er batting, bowling and fielding sessions with a festival at the end of the year.

With a 60-player tour for their A-D sides at under-14s and 15s organised for April to Dubai –run every two years – a senior tour to Spain and a 2nd XI tour to parts of the UK on a yearly basis, Trent’s cricket credentials are there for all to see.

Head of cricket Scott Boswell

Our passion for Cricket has endured over 150 years and is now enjoyed by boys and girls in all age groups.

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UPPINGHAM SCHOOL

High St W, Uppingham, Oakham LE15 9QE

Established 1584

Number of pupils 800

Director of cricket Andy Siddall Professional Trevor Ward (Kent and Leicestershire), Ian Butcher (Gloucestershire and Leicestershire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U15

Girls’ cricket Due to increased interest, an U14 XI will be introduced in 2023. Some girls also play alongside the boys

Post-pandemic changes Cricket is played in the first three weeks of September by those on county talent pathways. The Uppingham Premier League, a Thursday afternoon, internal 12-a-side competition, has also been introduced as has regular winter training for all year groups Fixtures 85-90, including 15-20 for the 1st XI. Notable fixtures include MCC, Oundle, Repton, Haileybury and a two-day match against Shrewsbury School. The U15 boys contest the Clarke-Williams Trophy against Eton,

Shrewsbury and Marlborough

Facilities Five indoor lanes, 16 grass practice pitches, eight-lane county standard artificial net facility, four bowling machines, Merlyn bowling machine, and seven cricket squares. The Upper is the school’s standalone 1st XI ground Club/county a liation

Leicestershire CCC (the school is home to Leicestershire’s academy) and Uppingham Town

Best prospect Arush Buchake (Northamptonshire 2nd XI) - a promising wicketkeeper-batter who was Uppingham’s leading run-scorer

in 2022. He represented the Midlands at the 2021 Bunbury Festival

Cricketers of note Jonathan Agnew, James Whitaker (both England and Leicestershire)

Cultural cricketers Stephen Fry (actor, comedian and president of MCC) Brief history Cricket has been a bedrock at Uppingham ever since the school acquired a 1st XI ground, The Upper, in 1828. The school has produced several cricketers of note from university level through to England. The Uppingham Rovers, the school’s old boys cricket club, was established in 1863, making it one of

the oldest wandering clubs in the world What sets the school apart?

The school’s winter coaching programme grants gifted cricketers the opportunity of six hours per week contact time plus strength and conditioning and sports science support. All of Uppingham’s cricketers, regardless of ability or gender, can attend nets throughout the spring term in preparation for summer

Finest moment on the field In 2017, the 1st XI enjoyed their best season for years, losing just once in 12 matches

Recent progress The addition of a second cricket professional (Ian Butcher) to the sta and the improvement in all seven squares under the care of Alex Exton.

Uppingham U14 reached the county final for the first time in five years

Future plans A £3million renovation of The Upper Pavilion (ready for 2024), with plans in the pipeline for a new indoor cricket centre. Expanding Uppingham’s prep school outreach programme, further developing the school’s links with Leicestershire, and U14/U12 festivals in 2023

Tours Sri Lanka in 2024 (boys and girls)

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Former Leicestershire academy director Andy Siddall was in prime position to pick up a struggling cricket programme upon joining Uppingham in 2020.

Having been at the academy for several years, Siddall met with headmaster Dr Richard Maloney after an Uppingham pupil joined the academy. Together, they forged a partnership between school and county before Siddall answered Maloney’s call to reignite the school programme.

Siddall said: “The headmaster wanted Uppingham to become a ‘powerhouse’ of independent schools cricket - I liked how punchy and ambitious that sounded, so I made the move. When I first joined, cricket was not in the best place and we had a lot of the old boys grumbling about the state of the programme, so we are really proud to get back into the top 100 in a relatively short space of time.”

Upon arriving at the school, Siddall identified the programme and the pitches as obvious areas

that needed vast improvement. “A major contributor was the recruitment of Alex Exton, our groundsman. He had a wealth of experience working with his dad who was head groundsman at Oakham School and then at the Swalec (Glamorgan’s Sophia Gardens) for a number of years. Our playing surfaces have dramatically improved to the point where we hosted a Leicestershire 2nd XI fixture last season and hope to host first-class games from next season once work on the restoration of our historical, listed pavilion is complete,” he said.

It took just weeks for Siddall to request extra access to players whereby one-to-one coaching, increased sessions, strength and conditioning and working on the psychology/ mental side of the game are now the norm, creating a professional environment akin to that of a county academy.

“Our psychology/mental skills programme is a bit of golden thread that is interwoven throughout our sessions, built from my experiences working in the Leicestershire

and now Worcestershire pathway structures. Rather than academic, these are practical skills designed to help players in pressure situations either on the field or coping with the varying demands of a professional environment.

“We have 12 players – both boys and girls – on the county pathways, which is making us more attractive on the recruitment side of things, while we provide bursaries to state school pupils.

Trevor Ward (Kent, Leicestershire) is one of our cricket professionals who has been at the school for years and also worked with me at the Leicestershire Academy, so has a wealth of experience developing and working with county standard players. Ian Butcher (Gloucestershire, Leicestershire) has also just come on board, adding to our coaching prowess, while we also want to recruit a current women’s player for our expanding girls’ programme.”

A marker of development at Uppingham lies with their under-14 boys’ winning the Leicestershire County Cup last season – the oldest sporting trophy in the county – the first time the school has won it since the tournament’s inception in 1894. Only onwards and upwards at Uppingham.

Director of cricket

Andy Siddall

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WATFORD GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR BOYS

Rickmansworth Rd, Watford WD18 7JF

Established 1704

Number of pupils 1400 Master in charge James Dyson (George Moore from Tauranga Boys NZ in 2023)

Teams 18 – 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15ABCD, U14ABCD, U13ABCD, U12ABCD Post-pandemic changes Due to increased interest, the school tries to o er midweek fixtures across A-D teams

Fixtures 90, including a fixture against MCC. Notable rivals include Haberdashers’ Boys, St Albans, UCS and Aldenham

Facilities Six-lane artificial outdoor net facility, four-lane indoor net facility, three grass squares (26 strips) and a further two artificial strips Club/county a liation Partnership with West Herts CC, including facilities and coach sharing. Over 60 boys receive winter coaching at WHCC

Best prospect Nikhil Nair (U15) is an opening batter and tidy leg-spin bowler. He scored a half-century on his debut for the school’s 1st XI, making 50 against St Albans, and is involved with the Middlesex pathway Cricketers of note Will Jones (Middlesex), Andy Needham (Surrey and Middlesex)

Cultural cricketers Alex Lozowski (England and Saracens rugby union), Josh Lewsey (British Lions, England and Wasps rugby union)

Brief history Cricket has been played at Watford Grammar for more than 130 years and continues to be the main summer sport at the school. Every boy gets some form of cricket during games afternoons. The school’s pavilion – the Household Pavilion - is named after Ernest Household, a former 1st XI captain who died in World War One What sets the school apart? Watford Grammar is one of the leading state schools for cricket, punching above its weight and fielding 6-10 sides every Saturday against the independent schools in Hertfordshire. The school regularly make the county finals, winning

six titles in the past eight years. It is becoming increasingly di cult for state schools to run successful cricket programmes and the hard work of the teachers, many of whom volunteer to lead training and sta matches on Saturdays, is a mark of the school’s commitment to the sport Finest moment on the field The number of boys playing cricket week in, week out. This is in keeping with the school’s ethos of maximising opportunity and potential and

far more important than specific victories or titles

Recent progress The growing links with West Herts CC has been especially pleasing, with the associated investment in facilities meaning the school’s cricket provision can continue to grow

Future plans The arrival of George Moore from Tauranga Boys School as master in charge for 2023. He has vast experience of grade cricket in New Zealand

WELLINGTON COLLEGE

Duke’s Ride, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 7PU

Established 1859

Number of pupils 1050

Director of sport Dan Pratt

Teams Boys: U16, U15, U14. Girls: 1st XI, Junior AB

Girls’ cricket A group of around 40 girls are involved in cricket, playing 8-10 fixtures per year. The 1st XI play in a national 100-ball competition, Junior A play in the county competition, and Junior B play softball and pairs matches. There is also an indoor team in winter. Thea Brookes (Warwickshire and Central Sparks) leads the coaching

Fixtures Over 100, including notable matches against MCC (boys and girls), Eton, Harrow, Tonbridge, Radley and Charterhouse in the Cowdrey Cup, the BOWS Festival (Brighton, Oakham and Sedbergh), and a two-day fixture against Malvern College

Facilities Nine grounds, 12 grass nets, 14 artificial nets, and a new, purpose-

built four-lane indoor centre Club/county a liation Middlesex, Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire CCCs and cricket charity Cricket for Character Education, who use the school’s facilities

Cricketers of note Tom Curran, Sam Curran (both England and Surrey), Ben Curran (Northamptonshire), Ajeet Dale (Gloucestershire), Alice Macleod (Berkshire and Sunrisers), Tim Hodgson (Essex), Ed Young (Gloucestershire)

Cultural cricketers Rory Bremner (impressionist), Christopher Lee (actor), Will Young (pop star)

Brief history Cricket has always been a major summer sport for boys at Wellington but began to flourish from the 1870s due to Prince Christian Victor. A lack of appropriate pitches, however, continued to hold Wellington back until the early 1900s.

Cricket is now a major sport for girls, too, and in 2019, the programme took another huge step forward with the opening of the college’s purpose-built indoor facility

What sets the school apart? Five former pupils moved on to

professional and international cricket between 2014 and 2019, a clear demonstration of Wellington’s talent pathway Finest moment on the field Winning the Cowdrey Cup in 2014 and reaching the National T20 Finals Day in 2015. Old Wellingtonians CC won The Cricketer Cup in 2017 and 1995 Recent progress The college is proud of the number of pupils, both boys and girls, playing cricket and there has also been considerable success with progression to MCCU, first-class and international cricket. In 2022, the girls’ 1st XI played against

MCC Women for the first time. Oneon-one coaching is now available to all pupils, one of the positives to emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic Future plans Thea Brookes has joined the school as head of girls sport development and will continue to lead the girls’ cricket programme. The college will continue to grow its partnership with Cricket for Character Education Tours South Africa every two years (boys 1st XI and U15/14) – returning in 2024 – and a UK-based tour for U14 boys (Manchester Grammar, Oakham, Shrewsbury)

WELLINGTON SCHOOL

South Street, Wellington, Somerset TA21 8NT

Established 1837

Number of pupils 816

Head of cricket Paul Lawrence Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U16, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB, U11AB, U10AB, U9, U8. Girls: 1st XI, U16, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC, U11ABC, U10ABC, U9AB, U8AB

Girls’ cricket The school has 22 girls’ teams from Year 3 to the sixth form, with pupils also having the option to train and play alongside the boys Post-pandemic changes The school’s robust cricket programme remained strong throughout the pandemic and the number of pupils playing the sport has grown significantly – Wellington now field five additional teams compared to 2021

Fixtures 215 fixtures, over 160 of which are in the senior school. Notable fixtures include Millfield School, King’s College Taunton,

Clifton College, Somerset’s age-group teams, and South Wales

Facilities Four grass pitches, 11 grass wickets, and four indoor lanes with full run-ups

Club/county a liation Somerset Cricket Board, Cornwall, Devon, Taunton St Andrews CC, Wellington CC, and Tiverton Heathcote CC

Best prospect Rishabh Shimpi (Year 9) scored five centuries in the 2022 season and has also clocked over 70mph with his left-arm fast bowling Cricketers of note Liam Naylor (Scotland U19s), Jordan Knight (West Indies U19s and Devon), Alisa Scantlebury (Barbados)

Brief history Cricket at Wellington

School has gone from strength to strength over the past nine years, with the number of pupils involved in the sport increasing all the time. The school’s cricket programme has gained a reputation globally, with pupils from overseas frequently choosing Wellington for their cricketing education

What sets the school apart? England Women played a warm-up fixture against Wellington School Select XI as part of their preparations for the 2017 World Cup while several Rajasthan Royals and India bowlers have come over to the UK as part of the PaceLab programme and used the school’s indoor and outdoor facilities

Recent progress Players are increasingly selected to represent Wellington School based on their ability and not gender

Future plans The school will continue to provide more opportunities for pupils to develop their skills through practice and matches throughout the winter and summer terms. Monitoring the fixture card to ensure it suits the development of pupils, with talks underway over an autumn fixture block with schools across Somerset Tours In April 2023, four mixed boys’ and girls’ teams are due to go on a 14day tour to Sri Lanka. The school has previously visited Barbados

WHITGIFT SCHOOL

Haling Park Rd, South Croydon CR2 6YT

Established 1600 Number of pupils 1544 Master in charge David Ward (Surrey)

Professional Neil Kendrick (Surrey and Glamorgan – head of cricket performance), Simon Jackson (Jamaica – head of cricket academy)

Teams 28, including 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U16 and various teams at U15, U14, U13, U12 and U11 Post-pandemic changes to growing interest, the school have increased the number of fixtures o ered

Fixtures 274 in 2022, including notable matches against MCC, ACE Academy and South East Stars Facilities Six cricket grounds on site,

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Whitgift School’s programme sets out to give children the cricket bug, and Neil Kendrick and David Ward are pivotal to that process.

Between them, head of cricket performance Kendrick, and Ward – the former Surrey batter and now master in charge – have 40 years’ background in coaching young cricketers.

six indoor cricket nets with 25 metre run-ups, 12 outdoor grass nets, four outdoor astroturf nets Club/county a liation Old Whitgiftians CC, Sussex, Surrey and Kent CCCs plus close links with MCC Foundation and ACE  Academy

Tim Lloyd enjoyed a strong 2022 season, averaging over 60 in his final year for Whitgift School. He made his Surrey 2nd XI debut in 2021 Cricketers of note Raman Subba Row (England, Surrey and Northamptonshire), Jason Roy (England and Surrey, left), Rory Burns (England and Surrey), Dominic Sibley (England, Surrey and Warwickshire), Laurie Evans (Surrey, Warwickshire and Sussex), Michael Burgess (Leicestershire, Surrey and Warwickshire), Nyeem Young (Barbados Tridents), Nico Reifer (Surrey) Cultural cricketers JB Gill (pop star), Elliot Daly (England, British

& Irish Lions and Saracens rugby union), Danny Cipriani (England rugby union), Pip Burley (Darling Buds of May writer), General Sir Peter Wall (former head of British Armed Forces)

Brief history Cricket was first played at Whitgift for over 160 years and the school has produced a significant number of England cricketers, starting with Raman Subba Row, who later went on to have a distinguished career as an administrator with Surrey. It was not until the early 2000s, however, that the school started to compete on a national scale What sets the school apart? The school has won over 15 national titles in the past 24 years and has won the England Schools U13 National Trophy more times than any other school.

In the past 20 years, more than a dozen pupils have signed professional contracts, many with Surrey, and gone on to play first-class cricket

Finest moment on the field In 2022, the school won the U18 National T20 at Arundel Castle for the first time

Recent progress The school has more matches, more teams and more pupils playing cricket than ever before Future plans Developing the school’s holiday cricket camps which are open to the local community and installing nine new astroturf nets ahead of next season

Tours Desert Springs (Easter 2023), senior tour to South Africa (October 2023), Barbados (Easter 2024)

runs right from the elite down to our lower-level sides. We have, at times, been able to field sides as deep as F and G teams – we have a huge amount of boys playing cricket every week.

is what our programme sits around: having fun, keeping active, developing a love for the game but, ultimately, becoming good people.”

And Kendrick believes that know-how is important in Whitgift establishing a productive and inspiring cricket curriculum.

“It is a key part of what goes on at the school,” he said.

“We are very proud with how the programme

“One of our big aims is for boys to continue playing after they have left school, regardless of level or ability. We encourage them to play an active part within their clubs, vital to keeping clubs at grassroots level going. We are as proud of these lads as we are of those who go on to a professional career.

“We hold the boys to high standards: players are held accountable for their actions no matter their level, instilling an ethos. Most of our role is to build upstanding characters and

The school has pumped £100,000 of investment into their facilities with a block of four astroturf lanes giving them a total of nine to train in; an additional two are planned for next summer. They also have a high-class bank of grass nets, 10 pitches wide, helping to explain why international sides choose to set up camp at their grounds while touring.

“Australia and India have both used our facilities to help preparations, if the likes of Lord’s are unavailable,” he said.

“If at the right time of the year, we have been asked to provide net bowlers from our senior sides, which is an unbelievable opportunity for some of our better players to be out there in the middle with world-class batsmen.”

Best prospect

Head of cricket Neil Kendrick

WILLIAM PERKIN C OF E HIGH SCHOOL

Oldfield Lane North, Greenford UB6 8PR

Established 2013

Number of pupils 1,340

Head of cricket Sajid Mahmood (England, Essex and Lancashire)

Teams Four teams across boys and girls

Girls’ cricket The school has partnered with Middlesex CCC to run additional girls’ coaching sessions, with the county also using the facilities to promote girls’ cricket in the local area

Post-pandemic changes Physical Education lessons have become more bespoke, with more specific cricket coaching targeting key skills and honing techniques across the disciplines

Fixtures Each team plays 7-8 fixtures per year

Facilities Brand new four-lane indoor cricket centre named after former Middlesex cricketer Wilf Slack, eight-lane outdoor pitch, and four-lane outdoor nets Club/county a liation Middlesex CCC, Brentham CC and Saj Mahmood Cricket Academy

Best prospect A number of pupils are involved with the Middlesex set-up, including Amaad Bilal (leg-spinner and batter), Veer Patel (top-order batter) and Essa Khan (top-order batter)

Cricketers of note Harry Podmore (Kent), Tom Helm (Middlesex and Glamorgan)

Brief history William Perkin C of E School was only established in 2013 but has started to make huge

strides with its cricket programme over the past four years. The school’s partnership with Middlesex CCC is driving girls’ cricket to new heights while the brand new indoor centre is game-changing. An Elite Cricket Academy is also available for sixth form pupils.

What sets the school apart? The school’s commitment to girls’ cricket through its partnership with Middlesex CCC and o ering free sessions to girls and beginners to engage them in the game. Both Middlesex Women and Sunrisers use the school’s facilities. As a state school, William Perkin is striving to compete alongside private schools and former England bowler Sajid Mahmood gives the pupils access to high-quality coaching and knowledge from across the professional game as head of cricket. His cricket academy, alongside the Elite Cricket Academy in the sixth form, allows pupils to combine both their academic and cricketing educations, with access to a personalised cricket development plan, one-on-one coaching, sports psychology, high performance fitness facilities and monthly input from Middlesex and Sunrisers sta Finest moment on the field In 2022, the Year 8 team won the borough finals

Recent progress The development of the schools facilities, notably the indoor centre, and the growing relationship between William Perkin and Middlesex CCC

Future plans The focus is on girls’ cricket, namely increasing the number of pupils participating in cricket and setting up a cricket academy for sixth formers

WILSON’S SCHOOL

Mollison Dr, Wallington SM6 9JW

Established 1615

Number of pupils 1,293 Head of cricket John Fry (Surrey 2nd XI)

Director of sport Danny Dudley Teams 15 – 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABCD, U12ABCD Post-pandemic changes To cater for demand, additional lunchtime and after-school practice sessions have been introduced, the number of 40-over and two-day matches has increased, and intra-school C/D team matches have been added to the fixture card

Fixtures 146, including 1st XI matches against MCC and the Forty Club Facilities Two indoor nets in the sports hall, five artificial outdoor nets, one grass square, and one non-turf pitch on site. Two indoor nets and pitches are hired from The Change Foundation during the summer term as well as using facilities at Sutton CC Club/county a liation Sutton CC, Banstead CC, and Surrey Best prospect Ansh Bansal (U15A) is a hard-hitting opening batter and quality leg-spin bowler who is involved in the Surrey development programme. He played in this year’s Hobbs Trophy at The Oval, picking up the man of the match award

Cricketers of note Neil Kendrick (Surrey and Glamorgan)

Cultural cricketers Sir Michael Caine (actor, right), Josh Galliano (fashion designer), Pascal Anson (artist

and designer)

Brief history Cricket has a longstanding tradition at Wilson’s School. The walls of the Foundation Building showcase team photos from previous decades when the school was originally located in Camberwell. They maintain a strong link with Old Wilsonians CC, where many senior cricketers recall their glory days. Many former pupils play to a high standard in the Surrey Championship and Sussex leagues

What sets the school apart? As a state school, Wilson’s are extremely proud of the cricket provision they provide, with extensive training, facilities and fixtures across the full range of age and abilities. The school’s programme maintains a twin focus on both participation and performance, and they are passionate about providing year-round coaching for all pupils

Finest moment on the field Wilson’s beat MCC in 2015 while in 2021, they recorded their first ever win over Whitgift School in the National Cup

Recent progress The school’s extensive coaching programme has seen an increase in participation, both at school level and with more boys joining local cricket clubs

Future plans With the development of a new fitness suite, Wilson’s are looking to roll out cricket specific strength and conditioning programmes across the agegroups. Due to the increased participation levels, plans are also in place to introduce C and D teams at U14 Tours A trip to Barbados was cancelled in 2022 due to travel restrictions

WINCHESTER COLLEGE

College St, Winchester SO23 9NA

Established 1382

Number of pupils 720

Master in charge James Burridge

Professional Paul Gover Teams 13 - U18ABCD, U16AB, U15ABC, U14ABCD

Girls’ cricket The school has a small intake of pupils in the sixth form who will be involved in the boys’ programme until there is enough demand Post-pandemic changes Internal competitions have been retained on the college’s fixture card

Fixtures Approximately 120, including matches against Eton and Harrow. Notable competitions entered include the John Harvey Trophy (1st XI, U15A and U14A), National T20, The Cricket Paper U17 Cup and age-group county cups

Facilities Three grass squares, three artificial wickets, hybrid wickets on each of the grass squares, and the temporary sports centre has four nets for winter training. Second ground, Meads, is also available

Club/county a liation Hampshire

CCC, Southern Vipers

Best prospect Seb Morgan (Year 10) played for the 1st XI throughout the summer, opening the bowling and taking crucial wickets later in the innings and also scoring two centuries in development games

Cricketers of note Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi (India), Jonathan Figy (UAE), Ben Stevens (Jersey), Douglas Jardine (England and Surrey)

Cultural cricketers Rishi Sunak (Prime Minister)

Brief history Cricket has been played at Winchester for more than 150 years, including first-class matches, and 10 former pupils have gone on to play Test cricket

What sets the school apart?

Rather than languishing in the past, Winchester are eager to look to the future. There is plenty of hope that the burgeoning relationship with Hampshire and Southern Vipers will eventually lead to the college hosting professional cricket. Such links may provide an ideal stepping stone for teenage boys and girls to excel Finest moment on the field Winning the John Harvey Trophy in 2009

Recent progress The number of pupils who are keen to play cricket has grown and the success across the full range of teams has been pleasing to see, including two teams going unbeaten for the season

Future plans The 1st XI ground should see a new scoreboard and scorebox, more hybrid wickets and rejuvenated changing facilities over the next few years. An additional hybrid square will o er more grass-based cricket on a small site and once the new sports centre is completed, the college will have a double sports hall and improved strength and conditioning facilities. Sports scholarships in the sixth form and the addition of both day pupils and girl boarders will o er more opportunities for aspiring cricketers to access the school’s resources Tours Took part in the The Cricketer Hundred in Spain in 2022. U18/U15 will head to the UAE for the Arch Trophy in Easter 2023

WOODHOUSE GROVE SCHOOL

Apperley Bridge, Calverley, Bradford BD10 0NR

Established 1812

Number of pupils 750

Head of cricket Gurman Randhawa (incoming, Yorkshire and Durham)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB. Girls – 1st XI, U15, U14, U13, U12

Girls’ cricket First introduced in 2019, the girls’ teams train regularly throughout the winter ahead of a full programme of training, fixtures and festivals in the summer term. A house competition was introduced in summer 2021 while a girls’ 1st XI was fielded for the first time in May 2022. Woodhouse Grove has a strong tradition of girls playing with the boys Post-pandemic changes The Grove Cricket podcast and internal fixtures have both been retained Fixtures 1st XI play around 18 matches, including fixtures against MCC, Manchester Grammar and St Peter’s York

Facilities Four grass squares and one artificial match pitch, four indoor cricket nets, and a new four-net outdoor astroturf facility Club/county a liation MCC, Yorkshire CCC and Rawdon CC Best prospect Max Chaplin (Year 9) played for the school’s 1st XI and is involved with Yorkshire EPP Cricketers of note Ajmal Shahzad (England, Yorkshire, Notts & Sussex), Craig Rika (Northamptonshire), Uzair Mohamed (Durham), Kathryn Leng (England Women)

Cultural cricketers General Sir Nicholas Houghton, Lord Michael

Walker of Aldringham (both former chief of defence sta of British Armed Forces)

Brief history Cricket has been the main summer sport at Woodhouse Grange for over 150 years. The last 30 years have seen some improvement in both the playing standards and the quality of the fixture list. The school has maintained a strong cricketing tradition locally but has also developed a more regional and national reputation, and regularly produces representative cricketers What sets the school apart? The 1st XI pitch slopes away from the

imposing façade of the main school building which was constructed during the 19th century. From this elevated vantage point, it is possible to see five cricket matches taking place

Finest moment on the field Winning the National Schools T20 competition at Arundel Castle in 2014 and winning all 18 matches in the same season, Woodhouse Grange U14/15 teams being crowned county champions seven times in the past 17 years, and fielding a girls’ 1st XI for the first time in 2022

Recent progress The continued development and growth of the girls’ cricket programme and the introduction of B/C teams across younger age groups in order to increase participation. A new outdoor net facility was completed in April 2022 Future plans Continuing to grow the girls’ programme, introducing B teams across all age groups, promoting di erent formats to improve engagement, and continue outreach work with local schools

Tours Barbados and St Lucia (July 2023)

WORKSOP COLLEGE

Cuthbert’s Avenue, Worksop S80 3AP

Established 1895

Number of pupils 400

Director of cricket Neil Longhurst (Yorkshire 2nd XI, Cumberland), Ian Parkin and Adam Tillcock (1st XI coaches)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15A, U14A, U14/15B, U13A, U12A. Girls: U15, U14, U13, U12

Girls’ cricket First softball fixtures were staged in 2021. The college now plays multiple softball fixtures and has a girls’ performance squad (hardball). Nottinghamshire CCC have started running sessions at the college

Post-pandemic changes Fixtures and training have returned to normal with a busier programme than ever

Fixtures 1st XI play around 20 fixtures, including matches against MCC, King’s Taunton and Repton and the Shrewsbury Festival (Shrewsbury, Millfield and Worcestershire academy)

Facilities Four squares, 12 grass nets, roll on cages, gym and a sports hall with four lanes of nets Club/county a liation

Nottinghamshire run sessions during the winter using the indoor facility as well as hosting 2nd XI and age-group matches at the school

Best prospect 13-yearold Henry Hardy (Nottinghamshire) is a 6ft3 bowler with bags of variations while Imogen Bownes (Nottinghamshire) is an opening seam bowler

Cricketers of note Joe Root

(England and Yorkshire), Samit Patel (England and Notts), Billy Root (Glamorgan and Notts), Liam Patterson-White, Brett Hutton (both Notts), Richard Kettleborough (Yorkshire and Middlesex), Phil Sharpe (England and Yorkshire)

Cultural cricketers Craig Woodhouse (journalist), David Coote (Premier League referee) Brief history Worksop College is a small school, but its cricketing prowess stands up there with the ‘big boys’. They never back down, an ethos that creates a real sense of unity and team spirit which is an integral part of the college’s philosophy

Finest moment on the field Worksop enjoyed an unbeaten season in 2008 and reached the last eight of the National T20 Cup in both 2008 and 2021

Recent progress The development of the girls’ cricket programme has been magnificent. The attitude of the pupils towards trying a new sport and working hard to improve their performances enables the programme to keep growing. It’s an exciting time to be involved in women’s cricket and Worksop are proud to support this growth

Future plans The school has recruited Karanjit Bansal (Notts 2nd XI and Lincolnshire) to support the scholar programme. He is an old Worksopian who played alongside the likes of Joe Root when he was a student at the school and brings excellent knowledge to the coaching team. The school are looking to create a Joe Root Academy base to support cricket in the local area Tours Possibly South Africa

WORTH SCHOOL

Paddockhurst Rd, Turners Hill, Crawley RH10 4SD

Established 1933 Number of pupils 610 Head of cricket Raj Chaudhuri (Tripura) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB. Girls: 1st XI, U15, U13 Girls’ cricket O ered across the age groups while the more competent girls train and play with the boys Fixtures 1st XI play 15–20 per season, including matches against Sussex Martlets, XL Club, and MCC Facilities Four grounds, eight grass nets, two astroturf nets, an indoor centre with five lanes, two hard-ball bowling machines and two tennis ball bowling machines Club/county a liation Sussex, Surrey and Kent CCCs, East Grinstead CC, Three Bridges CC, and Cuckfield CC

Best prospect Worth School has more than 15 players involved with county pathways. Captain Oli de Havas and vice-captain Sam Hardwick both play for Sussex U18 and Alice Grant is involved with Kent and South East Stars

Cricketers of note James Heywood (Cambridge MCCU), Nikki Chaudhuri (Surrey and Worcestershire), Harnoop Kalsi (Sussex 2nd XI)

Brief history Cricket at Worth has developed considerably over the years with the current 1st XI containing seven county players. The school’s winter programme allows pupils to train for 10-12 hours per week but there is also a focus on participation with less intense sessions and easier fixtures also

available. Worth School places an emphasis on proper skill development so that players can play all formats

What sets the school apart?

The school’s commitment to balancing participation and performance, and strong record of developing home-grown talent. Worth School coach the art and science of the game, using simple methods and maintaining a strong belief in the fundamentals

Finest moment on the field Winning the TISB Cup in India in 2006, winning the U15 Sussex Cup, winning the U14 Holdsworth Cup, and the high percentage of former pupils who are continuing to play first-team Premier League cricket and club cricket well beyond their school years. Worth School is committed to developing a lifelong love of the game

Recent success The 1st XI and U14s qualified for the semi-finals of a hundred-ball tournament while Thomas Whitlock and Sam Hardwick scored centuries against a touring side, sharing a record second-wicket stand of 300 in the process. The school also has a high umber of players involved in county pathways

Future plans Discussions are underway regarding the installation of a cricket bubble to facilitate training throughout the year. Local clubs will also be able to use the facilities

Tours India in 2024

Head of cricket Raj Chaudhuri

WREKIN COLLEGE

Sutherland Rd, Wellington, Telford TF1 3BH

Established 1880

Number of pupils 563

Director of cricket James Shaw (Shropshire)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14, U13AB, U12AB. Girls: U18, U15, U14, U12/13

Girls’ cricket The programme has been running for three years, with a successful U13 side and a newly formed U15 side. The framework and coaching is specialised and focused and run separately to the boys’ programme

Fixtures 115, including 25 girls’ matches. Notable fixtures include MCC, Shrewsbury School, King Henry’s Bablake and Denstone College

Facilities A specialist indoor fourlane sports hall, seven outdoor nets, a three-lane grass square covered with mobile cages, and five playing squares Club/county a liation Wellington CC, Shifnal CC and Shropshire

YORKSHIRE CRICKET

COLLEGE

Headingley Stadium, St Michael’s Lane, Leeds, LS6 3BU

Established 2017

Number of pupils 54

Head of college Nick Robinson Head coaches David Wainwright (Yorkshire and Derbyshire) and Matt Green Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI

Girls’ cricket There are three girls at the college who play and train alongside the boys Post-pandemic changes Smaller training groups, first introduced during the pandemic, allow students to spend more time with coaches. There has also been an increased focus on video analysis

Fixtures 17 across a 10-week season, including matches against MCC, Northern Diamonds, Woodhouse Grove, St Peter’s, a three-day residential at Ampleforth College and a Roses clash with Myerscough College Facilities Two four-lane indoor

Cricket Board Best prospect Matthew Lamb (sixth form) plays for Shropshire in the NCCA one-day side and captain’s the college’s 1st XI. He scored centuries against MCC and Denstone this season

Cricketers of note Dillon Pennington (Worcestershire and Shropshire), Charlie Horne (Northants and Loughborough MCCU), Richard Oliver (Worcestershire)

Brief history From hosting international friendly fixtures in the 1920s between Australia and England and housing Shropshire Cricket Board for much of the 1990s until now, Wrekin College has been a constant producer of Minor County players What sets the school apart? Wrekin College has a fantastic programme attracting exchange students from the Southern Hemisphere. Between 1998 and 2001,

these included JP Duminy and Rory Kleinveldt. The college continues to attract keen young students wanting to experience English wickets from Rondebosch Boys and has set up new links with Stonefountain Colllege and Newlands Cricket High School. As the ‘Home of Shropshire Cricket’, the new Shropshire Academy trains and plays at Wrekin with a plan for the college to play a major part in coaching and developing the team. Wrekin continues to punch above

its weight at senior and junior level, with a vast fixture card now including girls’ cricket Finest moment on the field In May 1924, a game took place between England and Australia at the college. More recently, Wrekin reached the last eight of the National HMC T20 competition in 2014

Recent progress The number of fixtures in place for the current season is very pleasing and Wrekin now has real depth across all of the teams. The girls’ fixture card continues to grow Future plans Developing the outdoor net facility, the preparation of the mobile senior grass square, and renovating the sports hall cricket centre planned in next three years Tours La Manga (2017) and Barbados (2022)

courts, occasional use of Headingley’s outfield for fielding practice, and access to local clubs for outdoor nets and matches Club/county a liation Yorkshire CCC (all college delivery takes place at Headingley), Yorkshire Cricket Foundation, Adel CC, and Kirkstall CC Best prospect Drew Owen, formerly a Notts age-group player, is a middleorder batter and o -spin bowler for Cuckney CC. In 2022, he had the opportunity to bowl at Yorkshire’s batters during pre-season Cricketers of note Sam Wisnieski (Yorkshire and Pune Devils), Phoebe Turner (Northern Diamonds)

Brief history Established in 2017, Yorkshire Cricket College has quickly progressed to fielding three teams and aims to use the power of cricket to educate students. All students benefit from six hours of training per week, built into their academic timetable, and sessions focus on all aspects of the game from technical and tactical progression to strength and conditioning in order to equip students with the understanding to thrive in all formats of the game What sets the school apart? The college is based at Headingley with classrooms overlooking the hallowed turf. Students benefit

from experiences that other schools cannot o er, including masterclasses from Yorkshire players and coaches, training next to Yorkshire and England stars in the cricket centre every day, and occasionally bowling at Yorkshire’s pro squad during pre-season. Work experience is a requirement of the programme, with students working alongside the grounds team and match day team at major events and matches

Finest moment on the field Playing against Barbados U18 in Barbados was an incredible experience for the squad despite losing the match

Recent progress The number of students is growing year on year and by fielding three teams, everyone has an equal opportunity to represent the college. There are more opportunities to engage with current and former professionals through masterclasses, and sports psychology sessions have been introduced

Future plans Creating an on-site gym facility for students (available from September 2022)

Tours Barbados (March 2022), Cape Town (March 2023)

Director of cricket James Shaw

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TOP 20 ALL-GIRLS SCHOOLS

Growth of women’s game continues

Former England international Lydia Greenway reflects on a huge summer for women and girls’ cricket

It has been a fantastic few months for the women’s game, which continues to grow in all areas – from grassroots and schools through to the very top level.

The recent professionalisation of the regional structure has begun to have a trickle-down effect onto the rest of the sport, while performances on the pitch have been steadily improving.

Sitting just below international cricket, The Hundred still has a massive role to play, with players being exposed to big crowds, TV cameras and pressure situations. This can only help in making the jump up to the England side considerably less daunting.

The Hundred has also had an incredible impact at grassroots level. I have worked at a lot of Hundred games this year and can see the crowd for a women’s game is very different to that for a men’s game. Parents are now getting involved taking their sons and daughters to cricket, while schools and clubs have been inspired by the competition and are running more girls and women’s cricket programmes than ever before.

Thankfully, the pandemic hasn’t set the women’s game back as some had feared. Professional women’s cricket was still played – albeit in a bubble, which admittedly was a less than ideal experience – and the players still performed.

Despite fears that all the progress made in women’s sport over the preceding years would be heavily impacted, we were still able to showcase the game and fulfil fixtures, which was important.

The World Cup in New Zealand went ahead and was broadcast to millions across the world;

crucially, the women’s game was still accessible, ensuring interest remained and the game continued to grow.

Key to the whole framework of our sport is the visibility of role models. Free-to-air live cricket on the BBC has a huge impact, while Sky Sports continue to provide their own fantastic coverage. Then there are other media outlets, websites, blogs and social media that champion the game and showcase these role models.

In addition, the ECB have launched a new account called We Got Game via Instagram. It is designed to elevate the profile of women’s cricket and welcome more young women and girls into the game to drive greater gender balance. It unites a community of like-minded young women and girls to share their passions both on and off the pitch. Continuing this investment in the game is vital both from the regions and ECB, along with other key decision makers and stakeholders in our game.

Finally, attitudes to female broadcasters are evolving. If I am

commentating on a men’s game there traditionally has been a subconscious bias. When the public hear a female voice, regardless of whether they know them or not, they might question it. I am pleased to say these opinions are shifting.

Male commentators work on women’s cricket so of course there is no reason why women should not commentate on the men’s game.

The increased coverage of the women’s game has opened up more opportunities for former pros like myself, and I feel incredibly privileged to broadcast on a sport that I love. Hopefully, as our sport continues to evolve, more and more women will get the opportunity to work in the media, creating role models off the field and showing schoolgirls they do not have to be an outstanding cricketer to find a career path in the game.

Greenway is making the game more accessible for girls through the Girls Cricket Club, a place for female cricketers, built by girls, for girls, to share knowledge, resources, inspiration and opportunities. For more information visit www.girlscricketclub.com

ABOVE Girls’ cricket at Repton School

BELOW Eva Gray of Oval Invincibles

BENENDEN SCHOOL

Benenden, Cranbrook TN17 4AA

Established 1923

Number of pupils 550

Head of cricket Emilie Ellston Coach Liam Cook Teams 13 – U12 ABC, U13 ABC, U14 ABC, U15 ABC/senior Brief history Started playing cricket in 2018. Last summer the school transitioned to a full cricket programme with weekly fixtures for all age groups. It now provides hardball training in its new indoor cricket centre, and links are being created with local clubs and county board Fixtures 35 last season. Closest is Cranbrook

Facilities 4 softball grass pitches on 250 acres of beautiful Kent countryside, 1 astro pitch, 5 indoor nets Club/county a liation Kent CCC, Benenden and Sissinghurst clubs

Best prospect Ena Clarke – played junior county cricket What sets the school apart? A positive, fun atmosphere. Great

CHANNING JUNIOR SCHOOL

The Bank, London N6 5HF

Established 1885

Number of pupils 336

Head of cricket Caroline Bolton Teams 8

Brief history When Bolton joined in 2016, cricket was

equipment and facilities

Finest moment on the field Winning first match of first season v Sutton Valence who are a wellestablished cricket school. The school has had a successful summer term winning 23 fixtures

Recent progress The school now has a cricket professional supporting the head of cricket

Future plans Laying some astro wickets so there are more facilities to practise hardball. Links with local clubs and hope to get pupils in the

county programme in the future. Plan to have a senior 1st XI and junior 1st XI who will compete in hardball fixtures throughout the summer programme. They will have access to a full winter training programme with cricket professional

not taught and a club did not exist. Since 2016, the school has established good links with local clubs with several girls representing counties and more attending clubs

Facilities 1 large astro (4 netball courts) at the junior school. Use of a smaller astro (1 netball court), and a sports hall with 3 indoor nets. O site facility with 2 grass

wickets. Play matches at Highgate CC and surrounding clubs Club/county a liation Highgate CC. Their head coach Johan de Silva (also Middlesex County Coach) hosts an ‘elite’ club one evening a week What sets the school apart Their thirst for learning. Lots of the girls haven’t played much cricket before but are beginning

to join clubs and watch on the TV or attend local T20/Hundred matches

Finest moment on the field One pupil hitting 10 sixes in a row at a local festival. Cricket has run as a club in every term Future plans Continuing to work with Highgate CC to build the programme. Further developing the o site fields

DENMARK ROAD HIGH SCHOOL

Denmark Rd, Gloucester GL1 3JN

Established 1883

Number of pupils 988

Head of cricket James Schofield Teams U12, U13, U14 and U15 softball; U15 and U18 hardball Brief history Cricket at Denmark

DIDCOT GIRLS’ SCHOOL

Manor Crescent, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7AJ

Established 1958

Number of pupils 1,381

Head of cricket Avril Harris

Professional Tim Haworth

Road is about giving girls of all levels a chance to play as much as possible. The most talented players play in the National T20 competitions against public schools, while the school also enters the Lady Taverners national indoor competition, as well as other softball participation-based events such as the Chance to Shine state school events

Fixtures Lady Taverners indoor

softball competition at U13 and U15; Chance to Shine outdoor softball competition at U13 and U15; School Sports Mag outdoor hardball competition at U15 and U18, playing Clifton, Wycli e and Cheltenham Ladies College. Annual friendlies against local rivals King’s School, Gloucester

Facilities A variety of spaces for cricket practice – a small sports hall, the tennis courts, and a field. A partnership with Kingsholm CC has been started for hardball matches Club/county a liation Kingsholm CC, Gloucestershire Cricket Foundation

Best prospect Katie Jones is 16, and wicketkeeper/batter for the Gloucestershire U18 and women’s county teams. She scored more than 1,000 runs in 2022. She has also been selected as part of the Western Storm academy intake. Flo Hampton is a left-arm quick who is involved in the Elite Player Pathway at Gloucestershire

What sets the school apart? Team spirit and the way the teams often have players from several year

groups playing together

Finest moment on the field Coming third in the country and being the only state school to make the National Finals at Lord’s in the Lady Taverners indoor softball competition in May 2019. This year the Under-15s won all their matches in the Lady Taverners indoor competition. They won all their games in qualifying for the county final, losing by just six runs in the final to Clifton College. In the outdoor hardball competition the girls made it to the last 32 of the National T20, where they lost again to Clifton College

Future plans Building the relationship with Kingsholm CC and King’s School

Teams U13, U15

Fixtures 15 a year

Facilities Sports hall for softball during the winter. In the summer a grass wicket Club/county a liation Steventon Ladies and Moreton Mavericks CC. Oxfordshire CCC Brief history Cricket was introduced

at Didcot Girls’ School eight years ago

What sets the school apart? Many of the girls play club and county cricket. “Women’s cricket needs more of a voice,” says Harris. “The more cricket we can provide for young girls the more it will grow and become

more popular” Recent progress The improvement in skills and knowledge and development Future plans Increasing the number of fixtures, getting more game time. Progressing into bringing in hardball cricket Tour Planned trip to Lord’s

DENMARK

DOWNE HOUSE

Hermitage Rd, Cold Ash, Thatcham RG18 9JJ

Established 1907

Number of pupils 590

Head of cricket Tash Bott Teams 9 – U12AB, U13AB, U14AB, U15AB, Senior XI

Brief history The Berkshire school established its cricket programme in 2018 and has been progressing rapidly Fixtures 22 per season. Most notable against St Edward’s, Oxford (played at Wormsley CC), U13 Schools Notices Cricket Tournament, U15

Schools Cup Tournament

Facilities Flicx wicket. Space being sought for a grass wicket. Working on a five-year plan. Use of facilities at Thatcham Town CC Club/county a liation Thatcham Town CC

Best prospect Hetty Hack, a skilled wicketkeeper; Amelia O’Connor, an allrounder – a quick scorer in T20 matches, she has been involved in the county set-up Finest moment on the field The Senior XI taking to the field at Wormsley CC to play Teddies, Oxford in a T20. The school making the third round of the U15 schools cup competition

Recent progress More hard ball matches. The upskilling of teachers Future plans Building of nets, both indoor and outdoor. More investment into equipment (bowling machine) and more kit for lessons and teaching. More numbers participating at Thatcham CC on a weekly basis

GUILDFORD HIGH SCHOOL

London Road, Guildford SGU1 1SJ

Established 1888

Number of pupils 900

Head of cricket Keely Harper (director of sport), Georgie Dustin (director of PE)

Professional Ben Collins Teams U8ABCDE, U9ABCDE, U10ABCDE, U11ABCDE (softball); U12ABC and club, U13ABC and club, U14ABC and club, U15ABCD (softball and hardball)

Fixtures Senior school: 40 a year (multiple teams playing for each); Junior school: weekly year-group fixtures

Facilities 4 nets installed in sports hall. 2 squares with each containing 3 di erent lengths to suit junior school, U13 and U15 lengths. 2G Flicx Pitch. School uses Stoke Park CC. Bowling machine Club/county a liation Cricket for girls – Lydia Greenway ran a holiday course for GHS girls over Easter. Surrey CCC. Blackheath, Esher, Guildford, Horsley & Send,

Merrow CCs

Best prospect Zara Iqbal (Year 6) talented all-round cricketer. Senior: Liv Tufts (Y8 plays for Surrey and Weybridge CC); Ellen Clarke (Y9, Surrey and Esher CC)

Brief history Cricket has been an extra-curricular club for the eight years and from 2019 it has been a main curriculum sport. It has grown from one extra-curricular team to 26 What sets the school apart? A passion for the sport and desire to improve

Finest moment on the field The U9s finishing 2nd out of 12 schools in the annual Surrey Starburst Festival; Winning U11 Surrey IAPS festival, and 13 out of 14 matches this summer; Senior School – Playing an U13A softball cricket match and taking five wickets in the first 10 balls; Winners of the Surrey Softball U13 League (final played in April 2022 for the season of 2021); Silver medallists in the U13 Surrey Festival (2022); runners-up in the Surrey Softball U13 League (2022); gold and bronze medallists in the

U15 Surrey Festival (U14 champions beating the U15 who took bronze)

Recent progress Now have a core of four cricket sta who have huge passion for the game

Future plans To install 3 artificial outdoor nets

Tours 2022: 24 cricketers across Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 took part in a threeday tour to Sussex, playing against Hurstpierpoint College, in internal matches and on Brighton beach; they also watched Sussex play a T20 at Hove

HEADINGTON SCHOOL

Headington Rd, Headington, Oxford OX3 7TD

Established 1915

Number of pupils 1,064

Heads of cricket Sarah Huggins, Laura Smith and Rosalyn Porter Teams 14 – U15AB; U14AB; U13AB; U12AB, U11ABC, U10ABC

Brief history Cricket has been growing over the last 20 years at Headington School, but in the last three years it has become one of the

LOUGHBOROUGH HIGH SCHOOL

Burton Walks, Loughborough LE11 2DU

Established 1850

Number of pupils 524

Head of cricket Alice Quemby Teams U12AB, U13AB, U14AB, U15. A senior team planned for next year

Brief history In recent years the transition has been made from rounders to cricket. It continues to grow with regular numbers at extra-curricular clubs across all age groups. The school now has block fixtures compared to the odd fixture a few years ago. There are also inter-house competitions, and indoor cricket during the winter. Links with the other schools in the foundation allow progression from prep up to senior level. Some training sessions with the boys Fixtures Most Saturdays, as well as regular midweek for all age groups during the summer term

Facilities Indoor sports halls, indoor nets, outdoor nets, 5 pitches at the Quorn facility as well as the use of Loughborough Town CC Club/county a liation

Loughborough Town CC – use of training ground and signposting girls to club sessions. A liation with Leicestershire CCC

Best prospect Prisha Thanawala (Year 10, Loughborough Lightning academy player, Leicestershire CCC Under-15s captain and Under-18s)

Finest moment on the field First fixtures played at Quorn grass pitches, a huge step

Recent progress Introduction of indoor cricket. For the first time the school was county indoor champions and regional indoor cricket finalists at both U13 and U15

Future plans A teams playing hardball. Investing in more hardball equipment. Working closely with Loughborough Town CC Tours In the pipeline

major summer sports. Matches and tournaments begin at U10 level. The senior school has several clubs and fixtures that run each week and have begun to introduce hardball matches for the experienced cricketers Fixtures 25 to 35 a year. These include the Lady Taverners tournaments. The most notable fixtures last year were hardball matches v St Helen’s and St Katharine’s. The inter-house tournament is popular. At the Prep School the girls have weekly fixtures

Facilities A wide range of outdoor spaces, a sports hall and Astro-turf surface. For matches, two pitches on the school field for softball cricket. Access to Oxford Brookes University’s indoor nets and hire of Exeter College’s pitch Club/county a liation Oxfordshire Cricket Board runs the school’s cricket masterclass

days. Many of the pupils play for Oxfordshire county squads

What sets the school apart? Many pupils play club and county cricket. The team spirit is exemplary Finest moment on the field The U13s won the Lady Taverners tournament in Oxfordshire in 2020

Finest moment on the field tournament in Oxfordshire in 2020 progress

Recent progress

Hardball was introduced to the school in 2021

Future plans To develop facilities to support developing more players for hardball. Cricket masterclass days have been a success. Looking to increase range of facilities (cricket nets and grounds).

Hardball was introduced to the school in 2021 partnerships with local

Strengthening partnerships with local universities, clubs and grounds

MAYFIELD SCHOOL

The Old Palace, Mayfield, East Sussex TN20 6PH

Established 1872

Head of cricket Emily Starr

Teams U12ABC, U13ABC, U14AB, U15AB, 1st XI

Facilities artificial strip, 2 outdoor nets, use of Mayfield CC Club/county a liations Mayfield and Bells Yew Green CCs

Best prospect Jessica Jolley (Sussex Under-14s, right-arm opening bowler, middle-order batter)

What sets the school apart?

One of the few schools in the area where girls play hardball cricket, including fixtures for the majority of girls who would like to play. An inter-house competition for all

girls from years 7–10

Finest moment on the field Being invited to play against MCC for a second year and two year 10s putting on a 50-run partnership. Finally being able to introduce hardball cricket to all age groups due to the introduction of nets this year. These were delayed due to the pandemic

Recent progress Introduction of two outdoor nets this year. Running batting and bowling academies has enabled school to stretch the top players and work on more technical aspects of the game. For the first time this year the school ran a Year 5+6 primary/ prep school tournament with seven other schools

Future plans Creating a square Tours Dubai 2023

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

For a school that has only been playing cricket for five years, it is no small feat that Mayfield has been selected once again for this year’s Schools Guide.

Now in her sixth year at the school, head of cricket Emily Starr appears to have made a considerable impact.

Having represented England at the Indoor Cricket World Cup in Brisbane in 2009, the MCC, Loughborough University and the England Regional Development squad, Starr has had plenty of experience to call on when molding the school’s cricket programme.

And it has paid handsome dividends.

“It’s a great achievement for a school that is only in its infancy of playing cricket. The infrastructure we have managed to put into place in a short period of time has been

fantastic and to compete with some of the schools that we have competed with, we are very proud of as a school,” Starr said.

With no indoor facility and having only been able to introduce nets last year, the school has been punching above its weight for some time.

“With the new nets only recently introduced, we have been able to start building up earlier which means we are hitting the ground running as the cricket season starts,” Starr said.

“We have bowling and batting workshops enabling us to push all girls of all abilities access to play cricket and develop those skills, which is what it’s all about.

“We are able to o er more hard-ball sessions now for those girls who want to progress to county level, due to having more space and time - which was one of my biggest bugbears

over the last few years. It is great that all our A-teams now have exposure to hard ball, with most of our B-teams getting that same exposure too.”

With rounders having been taken o the curriculum and the women’s game expanding, the trajectory of the programme has dovetailed  smartly.

“The women’s game has grown rapidly; it’s great the girls can now choose cricket as GCSE and A-Level options. The Hundred has been fantastic at getting bums on seats and getting people watching cricket – the Commonwealth Games also helped with quite a number of our girls having gone to watch the women’s cricket on o er,” Starr said.

The Cricketer has previously featured seam bowler Lizzie, who has gone from their best and brightest prospect to making her first-team Sussex debut in the summer. Having only started playing five years ago, Lizzie is symbolic of a thriving programme at Mayfield School.

Head of cricket Emily Starr

NOTTING HILL & EALING HIGH SCHOOL

2 Cleveland Rd, London W13 8AX

Established 1873

Number of pupils Junior school 310, senior 600

Head of sport Sophie Nicholas, plus Ealing CC coaches Juan and Mikhail Henri Teams 15. Softball 13. Weekly training for Year 4 (U9), development group and squad. Weekly training/fixtures for U10ABC, U11ABC, U12ABC, U13ABC, U14AB, U15AB. Hardball U13 and U15, plus senior (Year 13) who play for GDST Select 1st XI Fixtures In softball, each team has about 4 a year, plus tournaments: U11/U12/U13/U15 Lady Taverner’s Indoor, U13 and U15 Ealing Schools indoor, U12/U13 Godolphin and Latymer and U15 GDST. In hardball, the School Magazine Cup for U15s plus two fixtures. U18 play as part of the GDST Select XI who this season played MCC. Two students have captained this: Hannah Leathem in 2019 and Jenny Dawson in 2022

PUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL

35 Putney Hill, London, SW15 6BH

Established 1893

Number of pupils 540 (1,075 including junior school and sixth form)

Teacher in charge Emma Fraser (director of sport)

Professional Alastair Fraser (Middlesex, Essex)

Teams Hardball – U18, U17, U15A, U14A, U13AB, U12AB. Softball –U15A, U14AB, U13ABCD, U12ABCD Post-pandemic changes Hardball cricket was introduced last year and this transition had a massive impact on cricket at Putney. They also had two indoor cricket nets installed, to enable hardball cricket to continue year-round and on-site, something which is not a given for a central London school. This new element has greatly improved our facilities and the ability of our students Fixtures Fixtures weekly over the summer term. Cricket is still in its relative infancy at Putney and so all fixtures are notable and pupils treat

Facilities Large astro enables softball. Inside large indoor sports hall with 2 indoor nets. Ealing CC. Ealing Trailfinders Brief history The earliest team was recorded in 1887 when a student, Georgina Walrond, convinced the headmistress to allow students to play cricket. That first all-female team won their debut game against Princess Helena College. A huge investment in the sport was made in September 2017 with introduction of all-year-round training sessions. In the winter focus on indoor softball

and since 2017 have competed annually in the Lady Taverners tournaments with success (U11, U12, U13, U15). In the summer, pupils play softball and hardball Club/county a liation Strong links with Ealing CC have enabled a pathway for pupils outside of school and a sharing of coaching expertise. Indoor nets installed September 2021 Best prospects Manpreet Gill (Ealing CC & Middlesex U11), Sofia Younis (Richmond CC & Middlesex U15), Jenny Dawson (Year 13, Wimbledon CC, Surrey U15-18s and

Lancashire U11–13s). She opened the bowling and captained the first women’s match at Wimbledon, taking 4 wickets and scoring 60. She is opening bowler for Surrey U18s Finest moments on the field U11 London Schools Indoor Lady Taverners 1st in 2018 and 2019, third in 2022; U12 London Schools Indoor Lady Taverners: NHEHS has been unbeaten at this age since 2018. NHEHS won 2018, 2019 and 2022; U13 London Schools Indoor Lady Taverners 2nd in 2018 and 2019, and 2022; U15 London Schools Indoor Lady Taverners: 2nd in 2018 and 2019, 1st in 2022; Middlesex Lady Taverners in 2022 and represented Middlesex at regional finals; GDST Tournament: 1st 2018, 2nd 2019 and 2nd 2020. The school runs a community-based initiative on Fridays for all local girls in U15 or U13 in conjunction with Jo Valks. An U13 team was selected from the sessions to represent Ealing at the London Youth Games. The team came second, losing the final by one run Tours Bournemouth (in July) and Liverpool (August)

strong sporting reputation across the board means Putney athletes are known around the country as always being contenders. Students make strong sporting bonds with each other, and encourage and support team-mates

Recent progress The addition of indoor cricket nets has enabled pupils to train all year round and at break and lunchtimes. This uninterrupted access to cricket has improved the technique of many players, the benefits of which have started to be seen. Putney U13s have just become U13 Surrey hardball champions

every fixture as just as important as the last Facilities Two indoor cricket nets allowing for hardball cricket to be played year-round and they also train at Wimbledon CC, a top-class cricketing facility Club/county a liation Access to local cricket facilities, working around London school limitations. They have used cricket facilities at

Barn Elms, Roehampton Playing Fields and Wimbledon CC. They have had the opportunity to use the first-team hybrid cricket pitch at Wimbledon for our cup matches –an excellent opportunity for pupils Best prospect No Putney athlete could be ruled out on any field. An increasing number of girls in the Surrey and Middlesex programmes What sets the school apart? A

Future plans For more students to be playing at county level and in clubs outside of school

QUEENSWOOD SCHOOL

Shepherd’s Way, Brookmans Park, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 6NS

Established 1894

Number of pupils 440 Teacher in charge Jo Wakeley (director of sport)

Teams U18, U17, U15AB, U14, U13, U12

Brief history Girls’ cricket was first played at Queenswood in the 1930s but was deemed unladylike. There has been a resurgence in girls cricket over the last six years with success in the Lady Taverners competitions. Girls have progressed on to playing hardball cricket and are at the beginning of their journey with this aspect of the game

Fixtures Weekly friendly fixtures in the summer term for most teams. Expanded the hardball programme to develop girls’ understanding of the game. Haileybury, Ipswich and Berkhamsted have been the most notable fixtures and are a good challenge for the girls

Facilities In winter the girls train in a state-of-the-art double-sided sports hall, where they practice skills for indoor competitions. In summer the girls make use of the 150-acre site with temporary softball wickets and a full-size astro where hardball cricket can be rudimentarily practiced Hardball/softball Softball cricket

is Queenswood’s main form of the game due to no historical hardball facilities. Wakeley is working to put together a facility development plan to enhance the provision of hardball cricket Club/county a liation Hertfordshire CCC

Best prospect Lucienne Mercier (Year 8) is in the Middlesex Development Squad, and has best figures 5 for 11. Lottie Ross (Year 9) plays for Buckinghamshire CCC and has trained with MCC. Evie Killigrew (Year 9) Bucks

What sets the school apart? The school has been creative with its facilities and provision of cricket. The girls at Q are very supportive of each other and we regularly field sides with a mix of year groups. The girls have embodied the spirit of the game and continue to show resilience, determination and sportsmanship on the field

Finest moment on the field 2022 U13 County Finalists, 2020 U15 County Finalists

Recent progress Sta are now developing their knowledge and skills of the game. Inset has been delivered on how to score full games and also batting and bowling masterclass sessions

Future plans A proposed facility development plan has been drawn up waiting for approval. This would feature a lane of nets and an astroturf wicket

ROEDEAN SCHOOL

Roedean Way, Brighton BN2 5RQ

Established 1885

Number of pupils 710

Teacher in charge Mike Smethurst Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABCD, U12ABCD

Brief history Records of cricket at Roedean exist from 1889, and it was the school’s dominant summer sport Post-pandemic changes Introduced more tactical elements into sessions as a result of success during online learning

Fixtures 60 outdoor fixtures in summer 2022, plus the U13 and U15 Lady Taverners indoor tournaments each February. Additional softball fixtures will be added for 2023 for C and D teams Facilities Training – three indoor nets, two outdoor astro wickets with cages, six grass nets (new for summer 2022) and one grass square. Fixtures – two astro wickets, one grass square plus we host softball fixtures on the hockey astro Hardball/softball All A and B teams train hardball and play hardball when opposition is willing. They would like to increase the number of hardball fixtures for both A and B teams so they are exclusively playing hardball within the next couple of years Club/county a liation Sussex

CCC. St James Montefiore CC use Roedean’s indoor facilities through the winter and lots of girls train with them. Involved in discussions regarding an Urban Cricket Plan for Brighton, to o er facilities to additional groups from outside the school

Best prospect Grace Hepburn (Year 8) – Sussex cricketer, accurate seam bowler, hard hitting batter and very powerful throwing arm

Cultural cricketers Celia Robinson coached cricket at Roedean between 1949 and 1981 and toured Australia with the England women’s cricket team in 1963/64. Angela Eagle MP, plus dozens of other members of the houses of Lords and Commons What sets the school apart?

A strong contender for the best view of any cricket ground in the country, overlooking the English Channel

Finest moment on the field The once annual Lords v Commons fixture used to take place at Roedean

Recent progress An additional three members of sta now have their ECB Level 2 cricket coaching qualifications. More girls playing cricket than in 2021

Future plans Looking to arrange a ‘bottom up’ tournament to give opportunities to girls who don’t usually get to play fixtures

SHERBORNE GIRLS

Bradford Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3QN

Established 1899 Number of pupils 491

Teacher in charge James Bell (head of cricket)

Teams Hardball – U18AB, U15, U14, U13 prep; Softball – senior, junior, Prep ABCD; U15 indoor Brief history Cricket started fully five years ago, then was interrupted by Covid, but the school have fully transitioned to cricket as a summer sport. Cricket has moved on to the main top playing fields, taking pride of place at the centre of school Post-pandemic changes An increased programme running cricket across three terms. Term one contains an indoor nets session joint with Sherborne School (boys) looking at technique and shot selection. During term two they maintain nets with Sherborne School but introduce a session for girls to play both indoor cricket ready for tournaments, while nets session take place for a wider audience

Fixtures 49. With 1st XI and U15 teams playing eight matches each, as well having seven indoor matches alongside these. Most notable against Ryde’s School with Upper Chine (Isle of Wight) where the school had to catch the ferry Facilities Four grass wicket pitches, two grass batting cages (grass wickets with county-style side nets, two batting cages and access to five others during the week at the boys’ school)

Hardball/softball Transitioned predominantly towards hardball, with all junior and senior teams playing hardball matches and exposed to it as early as possible Club/county a liation Sherborne

CC, Compton House CC, Hardington & East Coker CC

Best prospect Mabel Martin opens both batting and bowling and captains both 1st XI and U15 What sets the school apart? Working collaboratively with girls to allow them to steer their learning Finest moment on the field Qualifying to the semi-finals of the county indoor cup competition. Not long ago cricket was played on the bottom fields in uncut areas with a small number of girls. This year they had almost 30 in each age-group wanting to play matches, getting two batting cages, with county-system nets Recent progress Head of Cricket course with Cricket for Girls. The use of Coach’s Eye app allows teachers to

compare videos, which can be sent to the girls to review themselves. The development of the school site – within the last 12 months – has increased numbers by twice the amount, provided two batting cages and support netting, two new grass wickets added

Future plans Set up and run their own primary and prep school pairs cricket tournament, alongside hosting the U12 Dorset Chance to Shine tournaments. The development of two batting cages, with county-system nets, along with ordering new hardball equipment for the girls including bats, pads and helmets. The school have been looking into girls’-specific cricket clothing

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Sherborne Girls did not have a cricket programme two years ago. Now they are celebrating inclusion in The Cricketer’s top 20 all-girls cricket schools in the UK.

It is a fine achievement for the institution and its head of cricket, James Bell.

Bell brings a refreshing approach to the development of cricket at Sherborne, where year-round training numbers have leapt from nine to 30.

“We have created a holistic approach of everyone working together; the year sevens and eights working with the 16, 17 and 18 year olds, encouraging them to work and learn from each other,” he said.

“We have given ownership to the girls who

are mad about cricket, giving them responsibility in creating the kit that we wear, right down to the material used.

“The school has taken note of the interest, investing in the best gear and equipment available and setting up fixtures wherever we want. We have an excellent relationship with Sherborne School, where we play against their boys’ teams, exposing the girls to faster bowlers and more physical batters.

“We started o playing fixtures locally but went to the Isle of Wight for a game, which the girls referred to as a tour and, why not? Let’s encourage them and let them enjoy it.”

The girls’ opportunity to play regularly has clearly paid dividends, and in 2022 they took

their fixture against Sherborne’s boys to the last over, only to lose by four runs - as opposed to the one-sided contest of last year.

Bell said: “The girls were thinking far more technically and our bowling improved vastly. I showed them the bowling statistics after the game where we only gave away 10 extras, whereas they gave away 30. You could see the surprise on the boys’ faces when they were facing some tough balls whilst also being hit around the park.”

The school has invested in bespoke bats that are easier to pick up but still have a meaty middle, ensuring players can get the most out of their strokeplay. With nets, two batting cages, access to a sports hall and BOLA bowling machines, the girls have scope to improve all year round.

Perhaps a good gauge of where Sherborne is at already is seen through the increase in the number of girls wanting to apply for sports scholarships.

Head of cricket James Bell

SCHOOLS

ST CATHERINE’S, BRAMLEY

Station Road, Bramley, Guildford, Surrey GU5 0DF

Established 1885

Number of pupils 900 Teacher in charge Tamsyn White Teams U17A hardball, U15A hardball, U13A hardball, U15AB softball, U14ABCDE softball, U13ABCDE softball, U12ABCDE softball

Brief history St Catherine’s started cricket in 2019 having always previously taught rounders. They have since entered teams in the U17 Surrey Star Burst, U13 SSCA Hardball, U15 SSCA Hardball, U13A Surrey Softball League, U13B Surrey Softball League, U15A Surrey Softball League, U15B Surrey Softball League Post-pandemic changes External let (Blackheath CC) providing opportunities to pupils through the autumn term using St Catherine’s

facilities

Fixtures U15 softball qualifying for the Softball league semi final Facilities Use of local facilities including Bramley CC and Blackheath CC Hardball/softball Hardball at U13, U15 and U17 and softball at U12, U13, U14, U15 Club/county a liation Blackheath CC and Bramley CC

Best prospect Abigail Thompson (Year 10)

What sets the school apart? Teams for all abilities and are inclusive relating to ability and/or experience

Finest moment on the field U13A hardball progressing through to the quarter finals in the SSCA Hardball competition

Recent progress Developing a team of five sta who are passionate about delivering fun and engaging lessons

Future plans Develop further hardball teams within the school

ST HELEN & ST KATHARINE

Faringdon Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 1BE

Established 1938 Number of pupils 714

Teacher in charge Charlotte Barras (director of sport), Sam Herbert Teams U18, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC, U11AB, U10AB Post-pandemic changes Cricket has exploded at SHSK from playing a handful of softball fixtures pre-

pandemic to over 100 scheduled fixtures (indoor, outdoor, soft and hardball) from U10–U18. This year, for the first time, SHSK ran indoor training throughout the winter, which made a vast di erence. Extracurricular cricket clubs are hugely popular across all age groups Fixtures 2022 was the first year of a full programme of Saturday block fixtures. The most notable of these were with Haileybury, Bradfield and Berkhamsted. Have played Clifton College several times in School Sport Magazine Cup competitions

Facilities

Biggest outlay this year was on three lanes of indoor nets, used daily. They have softball wickets on site, but use close links with Abingdon School to use their pitches for hardball

fixtures. The school occasionally use local club pitches

Hardball/softball U14A, U15A and U18A teams all play hardball. Below those age groups it varies according to opposition preferences. For instance, the block fixture with Berkhamsted (U12AB, U13 AB, U14AB and U15) was entirely hardball

Club/county a liation A large percentage of the school’s cricketers play club and county cricket (mostly for Oxfordshire). They signed a formal partnership with Oxfordshire Cricket (from autumn 2022) to be the main indoor training hub for women and girls’ cricket in the county. Matches against Oxfordshire Falcons, a state-school squad and hosted Oxfordshire Cricket’s indoor Chance to Shine tournament, while close links with Abingdon School provides pitches

Best prospect Honor Murray (U15 captain), Georgia Prestedge and Sophia Hanson, who have all played up for Oxfordshire U18s, along with talented young prospects Nicole Harper (Year 8)

and Niamh Rogan (Year 7)

What sets the school apart?

Sporting values. In an SSM cup fixture, the umpire gave a batter out, caught o a bump ball. The SHSK captain withdrew the appeal to overturn the umpire’s decision Finest moment on the field Both U13 and U15 teams reached their respective ECB Schools National Indoor Finals at Lord’s last May Recent progress The introduction of indoor nets (funded by the supportive Parents’ Association), employment of a specialist cricket coach, all year-round CPD sessions for all PE teachers. Their own enthusiasm for the game has increased significantly and some have even taken the game up themselves

Future plans Create a hardball wicket, plus indoor nets. Also in discussions with Southern Vipers as a training base for their Oxfordshire players

Tours The school hope to run their first ever overseas cricket tour to Barbados or South Africa during 2024/25

STAMFORD HIGH SCHOOL

Brazenose House, St Paul’s Street, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2BE

Established 1877

Number of pupils 600 Teacher in charge Michael O’Connor (head of girls’ cricket) Teams 10 (1st XI, U15A, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC)

Brief history Cricket only fully adopted since 2019. The school stopped playing rounders and made

THE GODOLPHIN & LATYMER SCHOOL

I ey Road, Hammersmith, London W6 0PG

Established 1905

Number of pupils 820

Teacher in charge Ellen Elfick (director of sport), Mark Mason, Buddy Mason and Ian Tabor Teams 9 – U12 ABC, U13 ABC, U14, U15, U18

Brief history The extra-curricular cricket club launched in 2005 with 30 girls and one coach, and now has more than 120 girls attending each week, with an elite academy. In 2017 cricket introduced to the summer term curriculum, replacing one unit of rounders. The school won the Lady Taverners U13 in 2011, were runners-up in 2017 and for the last eight years have represented Middlesex at the regional finals Post-pandemic changes Now have inter-house cricket instead of rounders for Years 7 to 9. All years across the school have either compulsory or optional

cricket a full option in games lessons along with tennis: immediately 35-50 per cent of Years 7 to 9 took the option. Since 2022 and the arrival of O’Connor, the programme has sky-rocketed, with training sessions and fixtures played every week in the summer season backed up with a strong winter net programme to help the players excel in cricket How has cricket bounced back More than 170 girls signed up to the programme in 2022 with more taking up hardball cricket. They play over 25

hours of cricket each week in season, which excludes Saturdays and midweek fixtures

Post-pandemic changes Try to limit the use of changing rooms, having the players arrive in their kit Fixtures More than 110 games in 2022, due to increase year on year. County, regional and national final were standout fixtures

Facilities Two artificial wickets, four cut-out strips on a main field, three concertina nets on an artificial surface plus the use of two Flicx wickets on a third of a hockey astros, excellent for softball tournaments Hardball/softball Hardball is played in all age groups for the A-team but hardball also introduced into the B teams and all out-training sessions. There is still a lot of softball cricket though, so that players feel comfortable Club/county a liation Several local clubs plus Lincolnshire, Leicestershire, Huntingdonshire, Nottinghamshire and Northamptonshire. Also a member of Cricket for Girls Best prospect Faith Teekasingh

is a pace bowler, Ruby Wright a wicketkeeper, Annabel Anslow a consistent spinner who produces a lot of turn. Allrounders Annie Bennett, Liv Portlock, Carys Price What sets the school apart?

A cricket programme based on inclusivity, progressive across all the principles, focusing on skill acquisition and performance in a fun environment. Trust is the glue that holds the teams together

Finest moment on the field Indoor national final at Lord’s

Recent progress Grads and teachers supported with detailed session plans plus huddles, openended questioning, freeze-frames and replays plus reflection tools for learning acquisition

Future plans Four-lane new netting system and plans to gain more grass areas to play for 2023. An additional hockey astro will create more space to play matches using Flicx wickets

Tours Took 12 girls on a tour to Sri Lanka. This was the first time in the history of the school for both boys and girls together. It will become a biannual tour aimed at Years 9 and 10

cricket sessions

Fixtures More than 65, mainly in the summer term. The Lady Taverners competition and also the School Sport Magazine T20 are the most notable fixtures, in particular the T20 hardball as the school do not have on-site facilities to train Facilities 4 nets in a sports hall, 3 astro pitches for softball/one indoor pitch onsite, a junior BOLA bowling machine, use of Kings House sports ground for hardball training and fixtures

Hardball/softball The majority of cricket is softball but there are also weekly hardball training sessions. The school have a few friendly fixtures, as well as still participating in the SSM T20 U15 competition Club/county a liation Richmond CC and Spencer CC. Coaches Mark and Buddy Mason have run the London Schools Cricket Association girls’ section for the past six years, giving many girls the opportunity to play competitive hardball cricket and train indoors at Lord’s throughout the winter. A number have played county cricket for the LSCA and

for counties

Best prospect India Payne (Surrey U13), Paloma Wright (Middlesex U13), Kyra Gulamhuseinwala (Warwickshire U15), Sophia Williams (Surrey U16), Alessia Soso (Middlesex U16), Georgie Waight (Surrey U18)

Cricketers of note Gayatri Gole (Sunrisers), Shimako Kato (Japan Women)

What sets the school apart? Scant facilities but the girls’ passion and commitment is what inspires them to turn up to club each week

Finest moment on the field Winning the 2011 Lady Taverners indoor finals and getting out eight batters from Millfield in the 2019 quarter-finals of SSM T20

Recent progress Upskilling teachers so they feel confident to umpire a softball fixture, and also the uptake from the girls to do hardball training. It is the biggest extracurricular club and has over 120 girls in it, with a better retention rate in the middle school than ever before Future plans Develop hardball on-site

THE MARY ERSKINE SCHOOL

Ravelston, Edinburgh EH4 3NT

Established 1694

Number of pupils 956

Teacher in charge Nichola Aitchison (head of PE), Gillian Carnie, Pippa Johnstone, Tom McBratney Teams 8

Brief history Cricket started as a lunchtime club run by one member of sta . It is now a lunchtime and after-school activity that runs all year with 11 sta involved. In conjunction with Cricket Scotland –who are based on the campus – the school developed a programme for junior pupils. Mary Erskine School responded to Scotland’s new performance pathway and have pupils involved at all levels, from the senior women’s national team to age group district teams

Post-pandemic changes A conscious e ort to ensure all pupils that wish to represent the school in cricket can do so. This inclusive approach helps cement a love for the sport. It has involved increasing the fixture list for all teams and entering multiple teams into local competitions Fixtures 24 in 2022.

The 1st XI hardball team competing in the Scottish Schools Cup for the first year this year

Facilities One indoor hall with cricket nets, two astroturf pitches for softball matches, use of Stewart’s Melville College pitches for hardball matches

Hardball/softball cricket in the curriculum for every pupil in S1 and

S2. Indoor extra-curricular softball sessions during the winter. High performing girls are also invited to winter nets with pupils from Stewart’s Melville. In the summer term softball and hardball cricket clubs and matches Club/county a liation A very strong partnership with Stewart’s Melville FP CC. Coaching at primary games and extracurricular club sessions and a pathway for pupils who wish to pursue their cricket career beyond school. They help us to elevate our standard of play and provide excellent role models by sharing the expertise of their professional players. Cricket Scotland often use the school to test pilot programmes

Best prospect Katherine Fraser is a current Scotland Women’s international in the squad since 2019, and has taken 32 international wickets to date

WIMBLEDON HIGH SCHOOL

Mansel Rd, London SW19 4AB

Established 1880

Number of pupils 900

Teacher in charge Catriona CouttsWood (director of sport), Kasha Hussain (head of junior PE)

Teams U8, U9, U10, U11, U12, U13, U14, U15, U16, U17, with multiple teams within age groups often U12 A-D

partnership programme with local state primary – yet to include cricket coaching but it’s in the pipeline

Best prospect Caitlin Harris (U11), Alicia Adams (U13), Eve Hitchcock (U14, but has played up in U18 GDST select XI), Molly McEvoy (U15, has played up in GDST select XI)

Runners-up in Scottish Schools Finals in June 2022

What sets the school apart? The number of pupils who participate and the number of teams, as well as the high quality of coaching Finest moment on the field Runners-up in Scottish Schools Finals in June 2022

Recent progress Increase in fixtures as well as the inclusion of high performing girls in boys’ winter nets, and Katherine Fraser playing for the Stewart’s Melville College 1st XI.

Brief history Cricket only emerged as a sport across the last five years so the school hope they are making history now Post-pandemic changes Retained all previous players and recruited more

Fixtures Fixtures on some Saturdays as well as midweek and U13, U15 and U17 cup competitions

Facilities Three mobile nets, full size astroturf pitch for matches Club/county a liation Wimbledon CC and Spencer CC. Strong school

What sets the school apart? The home of Wimbledon High School sport is at the old All England Lawn Tennis & Croquet ground, so not a cricket site but a historical sporting site for pupils to be inspired by Finest moment on the field U12 Jessica Marshall scoring our school’s first hardball half-century in our annual Cricket Festival, where she was playing against the year above Recent progress Ensuring we have a fit for purpose curriculum o ering that caters for all abilities and increasing pupil engagement in co-curricular

Future plans Secure a bowling machine

Tours Under consideration

performing Lucy Forrester Smith activator for the Stewart’s Melville All talks with Cricket Scotland to improve outdoor facilities and to make Mary Erskine School the hub for women’s cricket in Scotland. More hardball games with younger pupils

Lucy Forrester Smith (S4 pupil) is the lead activator for the Stewart’s Melville All Stars programme Future plans In talks with Cricket Scotland to improve outdoor facilities and to make Mary Erskine School the hub for women’s cricket in Scotland. More hardball games with younger pupils

One Softball

Young guns shine in the sun

The key takeaway for prep schools cricket in 2022 was opportunity.

Boys and girls enjoyed the chance to play all summer long with virtually no washouts, giving players of all abilities and aspirations a platform to pick up bat and ball, and discover a bond with the great game of cricket.

On the south coast, Bede’s Prep offer a year-round programme, with the staff working tirelessly to provide extra hours of contact time to ensure there will be no hangover from the Covid-19 pandemic.

The decision to form new junior academies with an internal cricket award scheme will ensure the most passionate pupils can access specialist training from a very early age.

Up the A23 at Cottesmore School, every child plays cricket each afternoon in the summer term. The school has also invested £200,000 in a new pitch to increase on-site provision, which already includes hosting the Cottesmore Sixes tournament.

In London, Shrewsbury House School’s 4G pitch even allows for cricket to be played in the rain. The school staged over 150 fixtures, with its pupils getting access to four indoor and two outdoor nets.

The Almshouse Lane Sports Ground now boasts a £3.5m pavilion, and has played host to a variety of events, such as the Primary Festival of Sport for local primary schools, giving more children an introduction to cricket.

A commitment to investing in facilities and extracting maximum

benefit for both the school and wider communities sets many of the prep schools in this top 50 apart.

In the East Midlands, Nottingham Academy Primary may not boast prestigious surroundings, but this inner-city state school runs up to 30 fixtures a year, using an outdoor net on the concrete playground for practice sessions.

The 900 pupils at the school, who speak more than 40 different languages between them, have a natural passion for cricket, so much so that cricket bats and balls, rather than footballs, are preferred on the playgrounds during the lunch break.

The commitment shown to cricket by the top 50 schools in these pages is second to none. With their continued efforts, future generations are falling in love with the game too.

Jim Hindson

ABOVE Pupils at Cottesmore School near Crawley

ABINGDON PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Josca’s House, Kingston Road, Frilford, Oxfordshire OX13 5NX

Established 1956

Number of pupils 240 Master in charge Richard Sutton Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, 6th XI, 7th XI, U11ABC, U10ABC, U9ABC, U8ABC Girls’ cricket An all-boys school

ALDRO

Lombard Street, Godalming, Surrey GU8 6AS

Established 1898

Number of pupils 209 (167 boys, 42 girls); 2021 saw the first girls join Aldro Master in charge Guy Drayton (Director of sport & enrichment)

Teams Boys 5 x U13, 2 x U11, 3x U10, 3x U9 and 3x U8; Girls 1 x U13 2x U10, U9 and U9

Fixtures

Prep Facilities Four grass pitches to host matches. Three indoor nets to facilitate year-round coaching. Three outdoor artificial nets. A multi-use astro-turf surface that can be used in all weathers. Pavilion with two changing rooms, toilets, a hospitality area for teas Club/county a liation Abingdon

Vale CC, Oxford Downs CC, Kingston Bagpuize CC, Faringdon CC and Abingdon CC; Gloucestershire CCC and Oxfordshire CCC

Best prospect Adhiraj Sharma, a talented legspinner and opening bat, who represents Oxfordshire CCC Cricketers of note Ben Gannon (Gloucestershire and Middlesex CC) Brief history Cricket has been played at the school since 1956. Recent developments have occurred since the merger with Abingdon School, including new all-weather outdoor nets on Cox’s Field. The new sports hall and a number of cricket coaches on the sta allow cricket to be played all year round, allowing winter training through weekly clubs to supplement the summer programme.

Number of fixtures has increased in recent years as a result of headmaster Craig Williams’ passion for the game

Cultural cricketers

Jim Rosenthal (right) What sets the school apart

Girls’ cricket Cricket is the main sport for girls in the summer term Post-pandemic changes Yes, they have retained their programme and introduced the girls’ programme to run alongside. The 1st XI tour to Kent took place and the school is now looking at bringing back an international cricket tour to South Africa

Fixtures 1st XI have played 12 and some six-a-side tournaments. Cranleigh Prep remains the ‘derby’ match of the season, although the school also play Lambrook and Ludgrove

Facilities Sports hall with three nets and specific lighting and flooring for cricket. A three-bay nets outdoor artificial net facility recently opened by Martin Bicknell. Three bay nets artificial for U11s outdoors. Three main squares, a Flicx and use of the local cricket club on a daily basis; Shackleford CC Club/county a liation

Partnerships with Shackleford CC, Elstead CC & Surrey CCC

Best prospect This year the 1st XI was a good solid all-round team Brief history Aldro has had a rich

history of prep school cricket. Set in the quintessential English village of Shackleford in the heart of Surrey, Aldro has been hosting schoolboy cricket matches on beautiful grounds since 1940. The unique grounds were cleverly developed around a lake which hosts plenty of wildlife as well as sailing and rowing. Boys and girls at Aldro play cricket every day of the week maintaining a traditional love of the sport, developing young cricketers and hosting regular inter-

Inclusivity is the main driver, with a ‘sport for all’ ethos, although teams throughout the school have a good track record in terms of results. Ten-15 teams play regularly on Wednesday afternoons and there are Saturday matches and festivals. There is yearround coaching including small group sessions. They also host boys’ and girls’ county matches on Cox’s Field Finest moment on the field Freddie Smith scoring three consecutive hundreds for the U11s

Recent progress An increasing number of boys being selected for Oxfordshire County Pathway Cricket

Future plans Increased opportunities for smallgroup coaching sessions with talented sports coaches throughout the year. The school has recently installed a new astro wicket to complement the excellent grass squares Tours 1st XI participated in the inaugural Cambridge T20 Festival last summer

school fixtures on a very strong prep school circuit here in Surrey

Finest moment on the field Girls’ cricket which has been successful in its first year

Future plans The Martin Bicknell Cricket Academy is based at the school in the winter terms and trains boys and girls for the season

Tours 1st XI went to Kent on their annual tour and the school is now looking to take a group of youngsters to

South Africa

80. Abingdon School, St Andrew’s Pangbourne, St Hugh’s, Chandlings School, Cothill, Moulsford, Cheltenham

AYSGARTH SCHOOL

Bedale, North Yorkshire DL8 1TF

Established 1877

Number of pupils 162 in prep, 60 in pre-prep Masters in charge Alex Lane (director of sport, Herefordshire CCC), James Alderson (head of cricket, represented Durham CCC as a junior and academy), Paul Grayson

(England, Yorkshire and Essex)

Teams 17 U8-U13 – Mixed U8ABC, Boys U9AB, U10AB, U11ABC, U12ABC, U13ABCD

Girls’ cricket All-boys school at prep Fixtures 187 across age groups and abilities. Most competitive fixture is usually against RGS Newcastle, Caldicott, Summer Fields, Harrow Wanderers, Old Aysgarthians. Tour to Buckinghamshire; U13 IAPS competition and Bunbury Cup

Facilities Four indoor nets, seven outdoor grass nets, five outdoor pitches and squares Club/county a liation School hosts the county round (Yorkshire) for the English Schools U11 8-a-side hardball competition; Richmondshire CC; North Yorkshire matches and trials; Crakehall CC, Newton-leWillows CC, West Tanfield CC, Newton-le-Willows CC Best prospect Many boys across age groups who represent Yorkshire and North Yorkshire Brief history Cricket has been played in some form since 1877 when the school was founded. During the 16 years that Frank Joy was headmaster (1919–36), cricket was one of his passions. He was a prominent bowler. He oversaw the building of a small pavilion with the profits of the school tuck shop. In 1927 the existing pavilion was constructed. The unique, cricketbased game of COW is still a mainstay of school life

Cultural cricketers Matthew Pinsent, Jonathan Ru er (philanthropist) Robert Swan (polar explorer)

BEAUDESERT PARK PREP SCHOOL

Minchinhampton, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 9AF

Established 1908 Number of pupils 450 Master in charge Johnny Gri ths (director of sport); Stuart Houghton (Level 4 coach, on the Gloucestershire pathway team) Teams 32 (U8–U13 boys and girls) Girls’ cricket Popular and developing with more hard-ball matches –“rounders a distant memory”

Fixtures 230. Most Wednesdays. Notable fixtures Clifton, Pinewood and Cheltenham College forming major Saturday blocks

Facilities Two indoor nets, four new outdoor all-weather nets opened last summer, two grass nets. Four squares and space for 11 matches at any one time Club/county a liation Frocester, Stroud and Cirencester

CCs; Gloucestershire Cricket Board; Gloucestershire Cricket Board U10 district festival

Best prospect Numerous players across the school have been selected for district and county squads. Herbie (now in Year 8) represented Gloucestershire Under-12s last year and is a big hitting allrounder with a bright future Brief history Cricket has

been played at Beaudesert for as long as the school has been at its current site (1918). The playing fields are a short trip across Minchinhampton

Common. The school has traditionally played on a strong south-west circuit of other prep schools and senior schools

Cultural cricketers Rugby player Nick Abendanon (Bath, Clermont

What sets the school apart

Grounds nestle on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Visually impaired coaching available by Lois Turner, captain of British Women blind team Future plans Expand coaching workforce, improving the quality of the outfield squares and practice areas and strengthening fixture list Tours Oxford/Buckinghamshire every year. Caldicott and Summer Fields visited in 2022

and England) was a key player in the school’s 1st XI in the late 1990s. Olympic marathon runner Dan Robinson is also a notable name. He recently celebrated his 20th year as a coach at the school

What sets the school apart The school has a strong ‘sport for all’ ethos with opportunity for pupils being more equal than ever. No matter what team a child is in, they will receive a similar number of fixtures over the season and a fair exposure to quality coaching. The excellent, fast draining and well-maintained sports fields on Minchinhampton Common stand out Finest moment on the field Success in the IAPS Cricket Cup saw Beaudesert 1st XI gain a place in the final and quarter-finals in recent seasons; the sheer amount of keen cricketers

Future plans The recent redevelopment of net facilities has made it an ECB accredited practice facility. Stuart Houghton is involved at Gloucestershire and Worcestershire CCC and has completed his Level 4 coaching qualification Tours Plans being actively considered

BEDE’S PREP

Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN20 7XL

Established 1895 Number of pupils 400 Masters in charge Alan Wells (Sussex, Kent and England, director of cricket; Neil Lenham (Sussex), Sarah Taylor (England), Petch Lenham; Kash Ibrahim (Pakistan A)

Teams Boys –U13ABCDE, U12AB, U11ABCD, U10AB, U9A U8A. Girls – U13ABCD, U12AB, U11ABC, U10A, U9A, U8A; Years 3 and 4; Years 1 and 2; Reception Girls’ cricket Has been o ered for many years at Bede’s Prep. Alongside running bespoke girls’ teams, girls are invited to represent the school in mixed teams. Girls’ training takes place on Monday and Thursday evenings at the Prep

BEDFORD PREPARATORY SCHOOL

De Parys Avenue, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK40 2TU

Established 1552

Number of pupils 450 Master in charge and professional Gary Steer (Derbyshire)

Teams U13 ABCDEFG, U12 ABC, U11 ABCDE, U10 ABCD, U9 ABCDE, U8 ABCDE

Girls’ cricket An all-boys’ school Fixtures Approximately 230 fixtures in the season with the most notable opponents being Caldicott, Stamford, Merchant Taylors’ Northwood, Haileybury, London Schools and various county teams

Facilities 8 grass nets, 10 artificial nets, 6 indoor nets Club/county a liation Bedfordshire Cricket, Bedfordshire Schools Cricket Association, Northamptonshire

Best prospect Bedford Prep School has two outstanding young cricketers, who if they continue to develop, could have very bright futures in the

and Senior Schools respectively with additional fixtures, practice during games lessons and Saturday training. Bede’s U13 Girls won the Lady Taverners Indoor Sussex County Cup, and came third in this year’s regional tournament Fixtures 1st and 2nd XI, A and B teams play 10 fixtures, plus cup fixtures. Most notable are Hurstpierpoint and Brighton College Facilities Four bespoke indoor nets, upgraded lighting and an external astro. Prep pupils also regularly use senior school facilities, including 8 artificial nets, 6 indoor nets, 4 grounds and specialist pavilion Club/county a liation Feeder to Bede’s Senior; Sussex CCC and Eastbourne CC

Lancashire), Joe Sarro (Sussex), Ali Orr (Sussex), Archie Lenham (Sussex & current Bede’s Senior pupil, left), Oli Carter (Sussex)

8

Best prospect Rudy Northcott (Year 7), a batsman on the Sussex Junior Pathway

Brief history Three times National Champions (the old JET Cup). The school has also won the County Cup multiple times across age groups Cultural cricketers Eddie Izzard, Peter Cook

Cricketers of note Sarah Taylor (England), Callum Jackson (Sussex & Kent), Ollie Rayner (Sussex & Middlesex), Luke Wells (Sussex &

Cricketers of note (England), Jackson

What sets the school apart The school o ers a unique, bespoke cricket programme for all Future plans Forming junior academies throughout the prep school and introducing an internal

cricket award scheme based on the development of skills. This will ensure that those pupils passionate about cricket will have the opportunity to access specialist training from an early age, building a strong foundation for when they progress to senior school level and beyond. Continued development of girls’ cricket, celebrating many youngsters going into the Sussex pathway, and providing extra hours of contact time with pupils post pandemic to make up for lost time and build their enthusiasm for the sport Tours Being reintroduced now after the pandemic

They prevailed in the U17 tournament in 2010 and again in 2014. Cook’s legacy also has a physical form, with the renovated pavilion named after the former England captain and record run-scorer

What sets the school apart?

game. Danny Chapman is a toporder batsman and also a frontline leg-spinner. For a boy of just 12, his legspin is accurate and he has already demonstrated his talent with the bat, hitting a hundred in his first game for the school on tour in Cape Town. He plays his county cricket for Buckinghamshire but he has also been attending coaching sessions at Northamptonshire. Mustafa Haroon is also a top-order batsman and legspin bowler. He is a natural batsman with plenty of scoring

options and has the ability to spin the ball hard. He plays for Bedfordshire but attends coaching sessions at Northants

Cricketers of note Alex Wakely, Emilio Gay, Charlie Thurston (all Northants), James Kettleborough (Northants, Glamorgan, Derbyshire)

Brief history Cricket at the school began in 1886 but thanks to the emergence of Sir Alastair Cook and progress in recent summers Bedford School have cemented themselves as a real presence in schools’ cricket.

Bedford Prep run an under-11 six-a-side festival every year which includes 12 teams, mainly prep schools, however Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire also enter teams. It has proved to be a real success with six matches taking place at one time, a very good standard of cricket and plenty of parents and siblings cheering the boys on from the side. The school usually runs masterclass sessions led by former first-class cricketers, however due to the pandemic, they have not been able to run them this year

Finest moment on the field Winning the IAPS national cup competition

Recent progress The proudest moment was being able to get competitive cricket back on again at the school after Covid Tours Cape Town every two years

BERKHAMSTED PREP

Doctors Common Road, Berkhamsted, Herts HP4 3DW

Established 1541

Number of pupils 500

Masters in charge Mark Costin (Surrey CB, Hertfordshire, Level 3)

Professionals George Campbell (Sussex CB, Level 3, head of cricket) Katy Costin (Berkhamsted CC, Girls’ Cricket), Jason Rance (Buckinghamshire Cricket Professional, ECB Level 3) Teams 40 (A–E in each age group girls, boys and mixed)

Girls’ cricket With athletics Fixtures 96 last summer between years 3 and 6. The school enters the Hertfordshire County Cup Facilities Partners with the ACE Programme, Buckinghamshire Cricket Board and Berkhamsted CC Cricketers of note Bethan Miles (South East Stars), Derek Morgan (Derbyshire), Anna Nicholls (Yorkshire Diamonds)

Brief history Cricket has a long history at the school. The first published school magazine in 1880 recorded 10 matches being played including home and away fixtures against Berkhamsted Brewery.

Former Derbyshire player Alf Pope – a member of the 1936 County Championship-

winning side, was the professional and groundsman at the school in the 1960s and 1970s

Cultural cricketers James Rodwell (England Rugby Sevens head coach), Will Fraser (Saracens and England Saxons Rugby), Sir Robin Knox-Johnson (first person to sail singlehanded around the globe non-stop)

What sets the school apart The partnership with Bucks CCC and Berkhamsted CC allows the school to share resources and expertise. The in-house sta are well qualified and provide expertise in the specialist areas of batting, bowling and wicketkeeping

Finest moment on the field The Girls’ 1st XI reaching the national T20 finals day with many of the players having come through the prep school. The growth of girls’ cricket, the expansion of sta ng expertise and the school’s flourishing partnership with Buckinghamshire CCC

Future plans The school is looking to develop another three pitches and have undersoil drainage and the surface laser levelled on the second square. All this will create better and more opportunities for the pupils to play and train

Tours The senior school are going to Sri Lanka in 2023 while the prep school will tour the

BISHOP’S STORTFORD COLLEGE PREP

School House, Maze Green Road, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2PQ

Established 1868 Number of pupils 540 Master in charge Dave Hughes Teams 47 Boys: U13ABCDEF, U12ABCDEF, U11ABCD, U10ABCD, U9ABCD. Girls: U13ABCDEF, U12ABCDEF, U11ABCD, U10ABCD, U9ABC; plus other age-group teams that will not have external fixtures for both boys and girls

Girls’ cricket All the girls from U8 to U16 play cricket in games lessons as their main sport. It will also be o ered to the U17 and U18 girls from next year. The school have been uplifted to see all the girls taking part this year and progress has been made across all age groups

Fixtures 234 in the school (boys and girls) with notable fixtures being against Bedford, Haileybury and Felsted Facilities 4 main squares (senior school but also used for prep school matches), 6 main squares (prep school), 16 artificial outdoor nets, 2 mobile net cages, 2 indoor nets plus 10 shared training/match pitches Club/county a liation

Hertfordshire CCC use the main school square for one-day and twoday representative matches. Bishop’s Stortford CC o er opportunities for the boys and girls to play high quality cricket. Hughes is head coach of the 1st XI at Bishop’s Stortford CC. Boys and Girls play for Herts and Essex at various age-group levels

Cricketers of note Graham

Doggart (Middlesex and MCC), CH Titchmarsh played for MCC against New Zealand (1922/23) and West Indies (1923)

Cultural cricketers Sir Stephen Lander (director-general of MI5) was a 1st XI cricketer at the College, Andy Peebles (BBC Radio 1 DJ and Top of the Pops presenter in the 1980s)

What sets the school apart Luke Humphrey of Herts & Essex Cricket Centre (an Old Stortfordian) regularly holds training camps in the holidays and coaching sessions throughout the year. He has been working across the age-groups for boys and girls and works with the school’s elite cricketers in the winter. Essex head scout John Childs attends fixtures. Three practice sessions per week are complemented by tailored strength and conditioning programmes for all individuals involved. The Doggart Pavilion opened in 1933 – noted for its modern architectural style – was presented by the Doggart family. Finest moment on the field The college was the first UK school to tour Sri Lanka in 1985/86 and played in the inaugural Sir Garfield Sobers International Cricket Schools Festival in Barbados. The progress and speed of uptake of girls’ cricket at the college. The investment made in new and upgraded facilities and the endorsement for the quality of our main square given from Mick Hunt (ex-MCC). In July 2018 hosting ICC U19 international matches Future plans To develop and enhance already strong links with Essex CCC

Isle of Wight

Best prospect Ed Stabb (Year 9) who at 13 plays for Essex and is part of their academy

Tours Regular overseas 1st XI preseason tours to Cape Town (next during half-term February 2023)

BRENTWOOD PREPARATORY

Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood, Essex CM15 8EE

Established 1892

Number of pupils 592

Master in charge Les Wingrove Professional Jaik Mickleburgh (Essex)

Teams U11 ABCD, U10ABCD, U9ABCDEFG, U8 ABCDEFG.

Option for further teams of mixed ability/gender especially in younger age groups (six to eight a side) Girls’ cricket Across all age groups. A number of pupils have been selected into the Essex girls’ development program. Indoor practices during the winter – coaches include Kelly Castle (Essex women’s captain). The school also enters the IAPS girls’ competition, alongside local festivals. Plans to start hosting their own festivals both for feeder schools in Y5 and potentially to host an IAPS girls’ festival Fixtures 105. Also participated in Eastern region IAPS festival, attending boys’ festivals at Orwell

Park and Bancroft’s. The girls planned to attend festivals including New Hall Facilities Access to the indoor sports hall based at the senior school with four nets as well as using a local indoor cricket centre that gives access to another three nets. The outdoor facility with six nets as well as two roll-on nets, based on the main and prep school site. Installation of a new four-lane batting cage on the prep site will commence in September 2022. Three hardball pitches on three sites with four junior softball pitches and access to an astro turf. Partnership with Brentwood CC provides access to two more outdoor nets and an extra

senior pitch Club/county a liation Brentwood CC and Essex CCC

Best prospect William Peck, aged nine, a liated with the county development programme, technically sound bat, aggressive seamer Cricketers of note Kishen Velani, Robin Das, David Acfield (Essex CCC), Rishi Patel (Leicestershire CCC)

Brief history Brentwood Prep School has a strong cricket history, with many pupils progressing onto the senior school and providing the backbone to many teams in various age groups who compete in the county and Mid Essex cups from U11 through to 1st

XI. Brentwood has won county cups and reached the latter stages of the national competitions

Cultural cricketers Frank Lampard, Olly Lee, Elliott Lee (all footballers), Jack Straw MP

What sets the school apart Popular winter academy. Many pros have come in to coach, including Adam Wheater, Paul Walter, Jamie Porter, Sam Cook and Mark Pettini (all Essex)

Finest moment on the field 2018 and 2019 wins over Essex development U10s

Future plans Aiming for 80 cricketers in after-school clubs Tours Holland or Jersey in 2023

BRIGHTON COLLEGE NURSERY, PRE-PREP & PREP SCHOOL

Walpole Lodge Walpole Road, Brighton, BN2 OEU

Established 1845

Number of pupils 500

Head of cricket Edward Hopkins Professional Mark Davis (Sussex) Teams 20 boys, 18 girls: U8, U9, U10, U11, U12, U13

Girls’ cricket Cricket lessons –hardball and softball – have been run for girls both independently and mixed Fixtures 110-120 a season. Bede’s Prep, St Andrew’s Prep, Westbourne House, Cumnor House (Sussex), Hurstpierpoint Prep, Ardingly Prep Facilities 12 astro-turf nets. 2 grass squares. 1 astro wicket. The school hires pitches at local clubs and from the council. 4 bowling machines. Indoor: The School of Science and Sport opened in January 2020; it has 4 nets and space for fielding practice;

also a 3-lane gallery in the basement Club/county a liation Sussex CCC and Sussex Cricket Board

Best prospect Joseph Scorey U11 (bat and wkt), Sammy Woods (cricket scholar 13+), Matilda Nathoo U11 girl (RHB and RM)

Cricketers of note Matt Prior, Matt Machan, Carl Hopkinson, Joe Gatting, Jordan Rollins, Michael Thornley, Malcolm Waller, Bazid Khan, Neil Lenham, Clare Connor, Holly Colvin, Sarah Taylor, Laura Marsh, Freya Davies

Brief history Cricket is the major summer sport for boys and girls. The college is proud to have been instrumental in developing competitive cricket for girls and has

produced national players in both the women’s and men’s game. The school aims to inspire a lifelong love of the game. Clare Connor is a pioneer in women’s cricket. She captained England and is head of women’s cricket in England. At Brighton College she was the first girl to play in the 1st XI

Cultural cricketers Sammy Woods. Played Test cricket for England and Australia and rugby union for England 13 times, five as captain What sets the school apart Brighton College believes it is the most successful school for girls’ cricket in the country Finest moment on the field Producing pupils who continue to play the game after leaving at their

appropriate level from grassroots to the national team. The U12s won the David English/Bunbury Cup Final in September

Future plans Girls’ cricket further embedded as a core sport. Consolidation of the progressive programme from Year 1 to Year 8. The increase in number of pupils that have engaged in the All Stars and Dynamos programmes at local clubs and those selected into the Sussex Pathway. The ‘home ground’ on the main site is to be re-laid to incorporate a square for the 1st XI and also two adjacent colts-sized pitches. The re-launch of the winter programme at Hove Tours 1st XI to Dubai, two U15 tours to Sri Lanka. Girls’ 1st XI to Sri Lanka

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Ed Hopkins loves coaching cricket, and his programme at Brighton College Nursery, PrePrep and Prep encourages its pupils to play the game as much as they can.

Hopkins is the head of boys’ games at the school, and oversees a structure which sets out to teach children the basics of the sport, and then inspire them to find more opportunities to test their skills outside of the academic environment.

“We are really proud on being selected. It is a magazine I have always read so to be selected again is pretty special,” he said of Brighton’s inclusion in The Cricketer’s top 50.

“We bottom up in terms of grassroots and try to inspire the children to join the All Stars Cricket programme, get out to the local clubs as well as what we provide in school. We have

loads of cricket ongoing at school – we provide structure for them so they are then intrinsically motivated to go and play elsewhere.

“Our programme runs concurrently to the pathways: batting, bowling and fielding carousels right the way through from reception, with the basic fundamentals of catching, throwing and movement skills. This all then bleeds into hardball cricket at Year 5 level.”

Hopkins’ programme delivered the Bunbury Cup in September, where Brighton beat Sackville School by 22 runs. And the girls’ cricket project at the school is also making strides, both in terms of quality and participation numbers.

“We’ve had a couple of girls playing in the hard-ball teams and the general standard across the age groups is just excellent – their bowling actions are much more refined,” he said.

“They’ve got the bug and, as a cricket person that’s all you want. You want to help develop their love for the game and be inspired, especially now there is a real pathway with the growth and exposure of the women’s game and women’s sport in general: England Lionesses winning Euro 22 was massive and The Hundred has worked wonders.

“There is a real buzz about equality and gender in sport and the game is now so much more accessible. The younger children below year seven and eight don’t see gender at all, they just see cricket, which helps explain why our teams are mixed up until year four.”

Sussex’s pathway programme ensures opportunities are open for the pupils at the college, too.

“A lot of our children go into that – it is not a closed shop and is testament to what they do,” Hopkins said.

“They dig deep for talent and provide coaching for those who haven’t been exposed from a really young age. We are very lucky to have that.”

Head of boys’ games Ed Hopkins

CALDICOTT SCHOOL

Crown Lane, Farnham Royal, Bucks SL2 3SL

Established 1904

Number of pupils 250

Master in charge Terrence Zengerink

Teams

All-boys school – U8ABCD, U9ABCD, U10ABCD, U11ABCD, Seniors (U12 & 13 combined) 1st XI–9th XI

Fixtures More than 200 across the year groups with all teams playing a minimum of eight matches for the school

Facilities Two squares (main has 16 strips). The school also recently laid a hybrid (SISGrass) wicket which has proven useful. Four artificial pitches, two outfield wickets, four indoor nets and six outdoor nets. Can host eight fixtures on one day Club/county a liation Middlesex, Buckinghamshire, Surrey and Hampshire. The school allows local clubs to use the facilities, while sta coach at clubs during their free time Best prospect Rory Hughes is a

CARGILFIELD SCHOOL

45 Gamekeeper’s Rd, Cramond, Edinburgh EH4 6HU

Established 1973

Number of pupils 310 Master in charge David Walker Professionals Ewan Harrison (George Heriot’s School) and George Munsey (Scotland)

Teams – Boys: U13ABC, U12 AB, U11 ABC, U10A; Girls U13AB, U12AB, U11AB, U10, U9ABC

Girls’ cricket A full programme running for three years. Huge enthusiasm, although opposition more di cult to line up Fixtures All teams play at least once a week, with the Boys’ 1st XI playing about 16 matches during the summer. The school plays Sedbergh and Merchiston in a beginning-ofseason triangular, and also take part in the Glenalmond 6s and Merchiston Super 8s

Facilities Two outdoor grass squares. Four fully all-weather outdoor nets. Two indoor nets which are used extensively throughout the winter.

promising cricketer who bowls with pace and has the makings of a fine batsman. This season he represented the U10A team and was promoted to the U11A team for the final two matches of the season, scoring 51 not out on debut. He is playing for Bucks U12 as a 10-year-old Cricketers of note Andrew Strauss (Middlesex & England) (right) Brief history Cricket has always played a major role in the overall experience o ered to Caldicott boys throughout their time at the school. It is not uncommon to see numerous games being played at breaks throughout the day. The school has an extremely good main square. With biannual tours to South Africa, the competition among both sta and boys to get on this tour is fierce. The school has staged many cricket dinners with Curtly Ambrose,

Garfield Sobers, Gordon Greenidge, Colin Cowdrey, Denis Compton, Yuvraj Singh and Mike Atherton to name a few Cultural cricketers Sir Tom Stoppard played on the main field when son Ed was captain. Old boy Oli Broom cycled from Lord’s to Brisbane in 2010/11 and wrote the book Cycling to the Ashes about the journey

school wants every boy to feel part of a team

to the Ashes

Finest moment on the field Touring South Africa in 2017, beating Bishops, SACS and Western Province Prep, then returning to the UK and winning the National T20 cup. From that group of boys five of them took part in the Eton v Harrow match at Lord’s last summer

Future plans Update main pavilion and sports hall Tours Cape Town in February Cricket

time at the school. It

Africa,

Two astroturf ideal for junior cricket means matches can still take place despite the weather Club/county a liation Close links with the Grange CC in Edinburgh where a large number of girls and boys play at weekends. Also, strong links with Royal High Corstorphine CC who use facilities during the winter and provide coaching assistance including Munsey, Scotland’s top T20 batsman and ranked 20th in ICC T20 rankings

What sets the

What sets the school apart The

Best prospect Rory Grant has just moved on to Rugby School and is already playing in their 1st XI despite being in Year 9. Glen Gammell playis in Fettes’ 1stXI while still in Year 9, and Sophie Watts is in Oundle School 1st XI while in Year 10. The school has a number of cricketers in the Grange CC U13 team and look forward to seeing how these boys and girls develop. Isabella Balfour, Venetia Hunt and Mariella Murdoch all played for the newly formed Grange CC Women’s team in the Scottish Premier League whilst still just 13 Cultural cricketers Lord Younger (former defence secretary)

Finest moment on the field Winning the annual Sedbergh/ Merchiston triangular festival, but more importantly, instilling the importance of the Spirit of Cricket in all the children and playing the game according to those important values Future plans Continued development of girls’ cricket programme during the winter and summer months, and introduction of hardball fixtures for U13 and U12 girls. Also making cricket a sport available for all, not just the elite players

CHEAM SCHOOL

Headley, Newbury, Berkshire RG19 8LD

Established 1645

Number of pupils 380

Teachers in charge Dominic Pike (boys) and Coco Bartlett (girls)

Teams 31: U8 – 3 boys & 2 girls; U9 – 4 boys & 2 girls; U10 – 3 boys & 3 girls; U11 – 2 boys & 3 girls; U13 – 5 boys & 4 girls Girls’ cricket the major summer sport for girls. Introduced in 2018, the 1st team, 2nds and U11s all play hard ball, with more teams expected to follow suit in 2023. There is definitely an appetite for further progress, and the girls have embraced the sport Fixtures Cheam runs a full programme of boys’ and girls’ fixtures, with an intention for all pupils to play as often as possible; usually on Wednesday and Saturdays for U10–U13, and Fridays for U8 & U9 teams. Each team will play about 10 fixtures per term, with more likely at the top end of the school. Cheam against Lambrook and Pinewood o ers a full block fixture for both boys’ and girls’ matches. The girls took part in a number of tournaments last summer Facilities The 100-acre site houses 10 hard-ball wickets, one artificial wicket and 11 wickets used for softball cricket. Nine artificial nets used constantly throughout the season. The school’s full-size astro is used for some junior

practice sessions and matches when required

Club/county a liation Berkshire and Hampshire

Best prospect Cheam’s Year 6 boys and Year 7 girls are a talented set of prospects with a number playing county cricket

Cricketers of note Rupert Cox (Hampshire)

Brief history Cricket is Cheam’s main sport of the summer for both boys and girls. There are few better sights than the view from the sundial, across the Cheam grounds and the many cricket pitches and to see youngsters at play

Cultural cricketers HRH Prince Philip, King Charles III, Ivo Bligh, 8th Earl of Darnley (England’s first Asheswinning captain)

What sets the school apart Cheam has an inclusive approach to all sports. Pupils enjoy receiving mini-bats for scores of 50-plus and five-wicket hauls. In the 1st XI boys and girls receive their cap once they have scored 100-plus runs or taken 10 or more wickets

Finest moment on the field Fielding 20 sides on matchdays

Future plans The school hopes to continue the chance for each year group from U10s upwards to compete in an external competition or festival each season

Tours Cape Town in 2024, shorter tour next year tour next year

CLAYESMORE PREP SCHOOL

Iwerne Minster, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 8LL

Established 1937 Number of pupils 160 Master in charge Tom Manley Teams Boys U13AB, U12AB, U11, U10; Girls U13AB, U12AB, U11AB, U10; Mixed U8, U9 Girls’ cricket Now the major summer sport with more than 60 fixtures in the summer term. Specific lunchtime sessions aimed at only girls. A matter of time before full mixed inter-school fixtures across the school (already at U8 and U9) Fixtures 60 for boys, 60 for girls + 20 mixed for U8 & U9. Notable fixtures against local neighbours Port Regis and Sandroyd

Facilities Two squares in prep school and two squares in the senior school along with village ground. Four new state-of-the-art all-weather nets constructed in 2022. Six grass wickets at prep school and four indoor nets in sports centre Club/county a liation Bournemouth CC, Shroton CC (sta volunteer there)

Best prospects Ned Cazalet, Tom Baines, Wilf Townsend and Oscar Stanley are all in the Dorset CC U13 set-up. Bo Vigiers is part of the Hampshire Girls’ U13 squad. She has represented senior school 1st XI in cup competitions, opening the bowling – accuracy and pace Cricketers of note Lewis McManus (Hampshire & Northamptonshire), Jamie Price (Dorset) Brief history Cricket was first

played on the original site at Charlton Marshall in the 1930s and the first inter-school fixture played at the school was cricket. One of the highlights in the summer was the sta v 1st XI match watched by the whole school and included matrons and cooks being coerced into playing. Two ex-Clayesmorians also made the national news for their performances. In May 1985 Darren Stones took 10 for 33 against Perrott Hill and in 1998 Ben McHardie-Jones 9 for 2 against All Hallows

Cultural cricketers Tony Hart (TV presenter), Brian Epstein (Beatles manager), Aadel Kardooni (Leicester and England rugby player), Rob Hill (GB hockey player)

What sets the school apart The ‘Sport for all, all for sport’ ethos at Clayesmore is not just a strapline: every boy and girls from U8–U13 will be involved in fixtures. Each pupil is inspired to take full part in the match, hoping to inspire lifelong attachment to cricket. Fran Wilson on call for Q&As and coaching days

Finest moment on the field Consistent county cup success throughout the last six years Tours South-West of England

CLIFTON COLLEGE PREP

Clifton College, 32 College Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3JH

Established 1862 Number of pupils 300 Masters in charge Louise Catchpole (director of sport), James Averis (professional), Jim Williams (coach) Teams Boys U13B, U13C, U12ABC; Girls U13AB, U12A, U11 ABC; Mixed 1st XI, U10ABCD, U9ABCD

Girls’ cricket The school is a transition phase where all the U8, 9 and 10 cricket is trained and played mixed where possible and this will move throughout the school. Many of the girls play at Frenchay CC with some selected to play county

Fixtures Twice a week for each team for 12 weeks, so about 24 matches;

a ‘commemoration match’ on The Close; winter nets and development programme

Facilities 6 grass wicket squares; 4 artificial wickets; 10 artificial nets; 6 indoor nets

Club/county a liation

Gloucestershire, Somerset, Glamorgan CCC, Frenchay CC Best prospect Jonty Grindal was Gloucestershire CCC overall boys’ player of the year across all age groups 2021 Cricketers of note James Kirtley (Sussex CCC and England)

Brief history Clifton College was one of the original 8 ‘Lord’s Schools’ entitled to play fixtures at Lord’s against each other. These matches were Clifton v Tonbridge, Rugby v Marlborough, Cheltenham v Haileybury, and Eton v Harrow. On one of the college’s pitches, now known as Collins’ Piece,

what was for 116 years the highestever cricket score was reached in June 1899, in the inter-house match between Clark’s House and North Town. In this match AEJ Collins, killed in the First World War, scored 628 not out, but not under the current Laws of the game. Edward Tylecote, England Ashes hero of 1882/83, previously held it in 1868. “There’s a breathless hush in the Close to-night, Ten to make and the match to win,” wrote Henry

Newbolt in 1892 about cricket on Clifton’s Close

Cultural cricketers WG Grace Jnr, Sir Kingsmill Key, Lothian Bonham-Carter

What sets the school apart The school caters for every inspired cricketer. The development of girls’ cricket and the numbers playing fixtures for the school

Future plans Hybrid pitches Tours Super 8s at St Peters in York

COTHILL HOUSE

Cothill, Oxfordshire OX13 6JL

Established 1870

Number of pupils 180

Master in charge Rory Gri ths (director of sport), Alex Kidd Teams 17 – U9AB, U10ABC, U11ABCD, U13ABCDEFGH

Fixtures between 150 and 180. Most notable fixture is the big rivalry against local Summer Fields, and the traditional longstanding fixture against Ludgrove Facilities 8 pitches including 4 yearround protected squares – pitches are regularly regarded by visiting schools as the best on the circuit. 8 grass nets on rotation and 8 hard

nets. New sports centre being built to open in June – will include 4 indoor nets and allow for a winter training programme. In the grounds there are two pavilions, two scoreboxes, one giant electronic scoreboard and four bowling machines Club/county a liation Oxfordshire CCC. The school hosts annual fixtures against the Oxfordshire Bulls teams, made up of local state school boys

Best prospect Casper Green moving into Year 7 is a talent – he plays for Oxfordshire Under-11s

Cricketers of note Charlie van der Gucht played first-class cricket for Hampshire in 1999 and 2000

Brief history Cricket at Cothill has been central to life for the boys during the summer term, and has been since being founded in 1870

Cultural cricketers Alastair Cook came in 2014, giving the boys a talk and Q&A session before 150 boys got the chance to bowl at him on the square. Shane Warne, Sir Garfield Sobers, and Ed Smith have also visited What sets the school apart Fantastic grounds and pitches. Headmaster Duncan Bailey is a sports fanatic Finest moment on the field When every pitch is in use and every boy is playing cricket on a summer afternoon. The 1st XI won eight matches in a row last summer

COTTESMORE SCHOOL

Buchan Hill, Pease Cottage, West Sussex RH11 9AU

Established 1894 Master in charge Andy Walker Teams 18

Girls’ cricket It is the major sport for girls at Cottesmore. New pitch being created specifically for girls’ cricket Fixtures Annual Cottesmore Sixes tournament. The 1st XI play up to 12 fixtures. Most notable fixtures are against Windlesham, Brambletye and Cranleigh at the Cottesmore Sixes. All other teams enjoy a least an 8-game fixture card

Facilities 7 grass cricket squares at Cottesmore. The 1st XI square and colts square have 10 strips and the school have 5 cricket nets. They have recently invested in a new state-of-the-art electronic scoreboard, made by Durant Cricket, for the 1st XI pitch Club/county a liation Two boys train with the Sussex CC squad. Ro ey CC and Horsham CC Best prospect George Bamford, allrounder and team captain; he plays for Horsham CC & Sussex Brief history Cricket has been part of Cottesmore history since its inception with a strong presence at Buchan Hill since the school relocated to this site around 75 years ago. It is considered one of the five main summer sports played by all boys and girls. School masters play club cricket. Monty Panesar came to Cottesmore in 2019 to lead a cricket session What sets the school apart

Cottesmore was in Wisden and the Telegraph for a ‘memorable’ match against Sussex prep school Mowden. Cottesmore were bowled out for 7 but bowled Mowden out for 5 Finest moment on the field Many overseas tours over the past 25 years, these have included Barbados, South Africa and the UAE. A particularly defining moment for the team was beating the Zayed Academy at the Zayed Stadium (Abu Dhabi) under floodlights in a 40-over game. Cottesmore coach Andy Walker asked some umpires who were at

the ground if they would o ciate the match for £15 and they obliged – it turns out that they were the international umpires checking out the ground for the England game the next day

Recent progress With the strong introduction and take-up of girls’ cricket the school has made huge progress as a collective

Future plans Breaking ground for the creation of the new U13s pitch and square

Tours UAE 2008, 2010, 2012, 2014 and a Jamaica tour

CRANLEIGH PREPARATORY SCHOOL

Horseshoe Lane, Cranleigh, Surrey GU6 8QH

Established 1913

Number of pupils 336 Master in charge Nick French Cricket professional Stuart Welch Teams 40 – 21 boys’ (U12/U13 combined ABCDEFG, U11ABCD, U10ABC, U9ABCD, U8ABC), 19 girls’ (U13ABCDE, U12ABCD, U11ABC, U10ABC, U9AB, U8AB)

Girls’ cricket It is the major Summer Term sport for girls. All girls in the school play cricket during games sessions and have a full fixture list against other schools. Three girls have represented the boys’ 1st XI since 2012

Fixtures 332 in the summer term 2021 (186 boys’ and 146 girls’). Most notable against Hurstpierpoint, Lambrook, St George’s Weybridge, Brighton College, Aldro and Westbourne House Facilities Shared with Cranleigh School and include a dedicated two-

lane indoor school, three indoor nets, 20 outdoor nets including a six-bay net area with full synthetic run-ups. Access to 12 squares and pitches, with a further five on artificial surfaces (all of which are regularly in use during match afternoons)

Club/county a liation Surrey CCC and a partnership with Cranleigh CC. Current pupils and Old Cranleighans

play for Cranleigh CC

Best prospect Oliver Hawkins is a bowler with a smooth and rhythmical action, generating good pace o the wicket

Cricketers of note Stuart Meaker (Surrey, Sussex and England), Robin Martin-Jenkins (Sussex)

Brief history Cricket has been played at Cranleigh Preparatory School since

its founding in 1913. It has always been the major summer sport for boys and, since 2018, has now also become the major summer sport for girls. All pupils represent the school in cricket fixtures against other schools. Old Cranleighans won The Cricketer Cup in 2014 and 2018

Cultural cricketers The Cricketer editorial director of many years EW Swanton attended Cranleigh School. GH Hardy – English mathematician, known for his achievements in number theory and mathematical analysis. He was an avid cricket fan throughout his life, no doubt attracted by the highly statistical nature of the game

Finest moment on the field In 2021 the U13A boys’ team won the Surrey Schools U13 Cup at the first time of entering

Future plans Looking to build on the MCC Foundation state school girls’ academy that has been started at the local club by Cranleigh’s coaches to provide winter coaching for the state school girls. Building a bank of six new nets within the Prep School grounds in the future

Master in charge

Andy Walker

CUMNOR HOUSE, SUSSEX

London Road, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH17 7HT

Established 1931

Number of pupils 280

Masters in charge Rob Park (head of games), Ben Chapman (boys), Caroline Park (girls)

Teams 26 boys and girls’ teams from U8–U13 with more than 200 matches a year Girls’ cricket Started playing in 2015 and since 2016 it has been the main summer sport for all our pupils. The girls have fixtures against Hurstpierpoint, Holmewood House, Great Walstead, St Andrews Eastbourne, St Christopher’s, Handcross Park, Copthorne, Brighton College Prep. The girls also compete in the Lady Taverners Indoor Tournament and were winners of the Sussex U13 County Cup in 2018 and 2019. They reached the final in 2021 Fixtures More than 200, including New Beacon, Ardingly College, Brighton College, Hurstpierpoint, Holmewood House, Great Walstead,

DORSET HOUSE

Church Lane, Bury, Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 1PB

Established 1784

Number of pupils 148 Master in charge Greg Weaver Teams 11 – Boys – 1st, 2nd, U11, U10, U9, U8. Girls – U13, U11, 10, U9 and fathers’ XI

Fixtures 66. Big local rivals are Westbourne House Facilities Three pitches – two grass and one Flicx. Astro used for some U9 softball fixtures and for training purposes. Two lanes of artificial grass nets. Bowling machine. Use of Arundel Castle Cricket Indoor School Club/county a liations Sussex CCC/ Arundel Castle Cricket Foundation Best prospect Xander Boyce –orthodox right hand, strong on the leg side and leading run scorer for the 1st XI 2022. Legspin bowler and captain Cricketers of note Former captain of the boys’ 1st XI 2019 Maisie Taylor has made her debut this summer, aged 16, for the Sussex Women’s 1st XI Brief history The school has had

St Andrews, Handcross Park, Copthorne Prep, Cottesmore. The school also hosts a touring school from South Africa

Facilities 2 indoor nets, 4 artificial outdoor nets, 2 cricket cages to enable practice on the main squares. Ability to host 12 fixtures at any one time. School also uses the facilities at Fletching CC and Horsted Keynes CC Club/county a liation Sussex CCC. Fletching CC, Horsted Keynes CC, Lindfield CC, Haywards Heath CC, Ditchling CC, Newick CC, and Cuckfield CC. The school also hosts

three local primary schools: Danehill, Horsted Keynes and Plumpton Best prospect Daisy Maclay – bats in the top order and medium pacer. Plays for Sussex U12s Cricketers of note Freya Kemp (England A, England Academy and Sussex CCC). She is also part of the Southern Vipers and Southern Brave squads

Brief history Cricket has been played at the school since its inception. The school has outstanding facilities Cultural cricketers Piers Morgan (journalist), Simon Williams (actor),

Rebecca Hall (actress)

What sets the school apart Cumnor House, Sussex has a ‘sport for all ethos’. This has meant up to over 20 teams playing on a Wednesday. The school is located in the stunning Ashdown Forest Finest moment on the field In 2019 Wilf Pickard (now at Stowe School) and Paddy Cooper (now at Eastbourne College) were involved in a record opening stand of 190 in a Sussex Cup match. The school also reached the U12 and U13 Sussex Cup finals in 2019. The girls 1st VIII remain unbeaten in the 2019, 2021 and 2022 seasons

Future plans A new sports hall to incorporate nets with 4 lanes Tours The school plans to resume a tour to Cape Town

several locations over the years, moving from Hendon to Bury, via Elstree and Littlehampton. It has been on its current site since 1963. Cricket has been played since the 18th century, albeit in various locations. The current ground was created in the early 1960s and the pavilion built in 1992. A headmaster, David Munro, was a close friend of WG Grace and there is a photo in the school o ce of the two of them together on the golf course. The Good Schools’ Guide said: “Dorset House punches above its weight on the sports field”

Cultural cricketers Harry Enfield, actor Ed Speleers, F1 racing driver Jolyon Palmer and jockey Harry Bentley

What sets the school apart One of the prettiest cricket grounds, in the Arun Valley, nesting at the foot of the South Downs. Former Sussex captain John Barclay is a governor. Access to Arundel Castle Cricket Facilities Finest moment on the field June 29 2018 – U13 Sussex Schools’ Cup Final v Cardinal Newman (Hove) at the Aldridge Cricket Academy. Defending 85, the opposition were bowled out for 49

DRAGON SCHOOL, OXFORD

Bardwell Road, Oxford OX2 6SS

Established 1877

Number of pupils 620, with a further

cricket. Fixtures against the Oxfordshire Bulls. The Bulls were created by sta member Neil Pickup, and provide opportunities for promising cricketers from Oxfordshire state schools

Best prospect Nicholson

Louis Nicholson and Alfie Wilson have won sports awards to senior schools after hitting centuries for the school, with Alfie also being a sharp bowler. Mim Aldred is an allrounder in the boys’ 1st XI. On tour

she hit an unbeaten 50 then came back to bowl a triplewicket maiden in the last over with the opposition requiring two to win Cricketers of note Maia Bouchier (England), George Munsey (Scotland) Brief history The sport has flourished at Bardwell Road over many years, and the proximity to the university in Oxford has seen many former pupils make the short trip to the colleges and on to first-class experiences. The Snapdragons is a traditional side. They were originally

the Headmaster’s XI, comprised of boys who needed close supervision. These days it is a Year 8 side with a range of abilities, and they enjoyed an unbeaten season in 2022

Cultural cricketers Tim Henman combined tennis with a stint behind the stumps for the 1st XI in the 1980s; Hugh Laurie, Tom Hiddleston, Tom Hollander, Dom Joly, Tom Ward and Jack Whitehall

What sets the school apart

It’s not unusual for the Dragon to field 25 or more sides on any one Wednesday or Saturday. Support for state school cricket, as per the Oxfordshire Bulls initiative

further outdoor nets being

200 at the pre-prep site Head of cricket Harry Paget. Kingsley Went is head of girls’ cricket Teams 24 boys, 24 girls, both for years 4–8 Girls’ cricket Developing quickly, with U11–U13 teams transitioning to hardball Fixtures About 150 for the boys and 120 for the girls. Summer Fields and Caldicott are the big rivals Facilities 6 pitches plus 10 astro nets, 4 indoor nets and refurbished Club/county a liation Oxfordshire

Finest moment on the field Aldred’s triple-wicket maiden. The school also made it to the last eight of the National David English Cup and the regional final at U13. Winning the Oxfordshire U12 cup last year at Wormsley

Future plans Working with the Oxfordshire Bulls as well as developing fixtures with their female equivalents the Falcons. A new sports hall Tours Barbados – with a visit from Jofra Archer

EAGLE HOUSE SCHOOL

Sandhurst, Berkshire, GU47 8PH

Established 1820

Number of pupils 401 Head of cricket Richard Barron

Professional Lewis Sharpe (Finchampstead CC and Berkshire CCC)

Teams 10 senior (Year 7 and 8; boys and girls), 12 middles (Year 5 and 6; boys and girls), 10 junior (Year 3 and 4; boys and girls)

Girls’ cricket Now the major summer sport for girls: 15 teams play on a weekly basis (year 3 to year 8). 1st XI and U11A girls play hardball matches

Fixtures 180 a year. Each team plays on average 7 or 8 a year. The 1st XI play 11 or 12 as they host touring/travelling sides. Longest running fixture is against Papplewick (since 1952). Also Feltonfleet and Lambrook. Cornwall College from South Africa

Facilities Three ovals at Eagle House – Railton (junior and middle pitch), Manor Field and Main Field (the 1st and 2nd XI pitch). Three temporary

pitches. Also play matches at Wellington College Club/county a liation Eversley, Wokingham, Crowthorne and Crown Wood and Finchhampstead CCs. Berkshire CCC and Hampshire CCC Best prospect Algie Nottingham (Wokingham CC and Middlesex CCC); Josh Evans (Hartley Wintney CC and Hampshire district); Annabelle Lalonde (Crowthorne & Crown Wood CC and Berkshire CCC) Brief history Cricket has been the traditional summer sport since at

least 1902 (this is the date of the first published school magazine). However, in a publication entitled ‘Unwillingly to School’ written by BW Johnson, which is a brief account of Eagle House history from 1820 to 1995, there are several accounts by boys about playing cricket on fields near Hammersmith (the old school location). Some of these accounts date as far back as 1820s

Cultural cricketers Billy Waugh (England hockey captain), Lewis Moody (England rugby), Ed

‘Stewpot’ Stewart (Top of the Pops and Crackerjack), Stuart Burge (film director), Nick Drake (singersongwriter)

Finest moment on the field In 2009 the 1st XI (Berkshire Schools U13), 2nd XI (Berkshire Schools U13 plate) and the U11A (Berkshire U11 Hardball 8-a-side competition) sides all won county titles

Recent progress The rise of girls’ cricket Tours South Africa in 2012 and 2015; Antigua in 2018

Head of cricket Harry Paget

ELSTREE SCHOOL

Woolhampton Hill, Upper Woolhampton, Reading RG7 5TD

Established 1848

Number of pupils 275 (185 in Prep and 90 in pre-prep)

Head of cricket James Morris (exBerkshire CCC captain)

Teams 20. Pupils start from Year 1 and all teams are mixed and based on ability

Girls’ cricket As of 2023, girls will be in every year group

Fixtures 20 days across the six year groups. Most notably against

Ludgrove, Summerfields, Cheam, Lambrook, Farleigh, Pilgrims and Cothill. Local tournaments include the U11 Mixed Festival at Wellington College, the U11 Tournament at Sherborne School and the U10 at The Oratory. Sta team also won the Charlie Waller Trust annual tournament at Bradfield College Facilities 7 grounds for matches including one with a new astro wicket. 6 outdoor grass nets near the main school building and new grass net Club/county a liation Berkshire CCC. Thatcham and Falkland clubs. An outreach Kwik Cricket day for Year 2 and local primary schools and host

pre-season courses run by Serious Cricket

Best prospect Alex Hoare-Nairne. He is training and playing with Hampshire youth teams and will be 1st XI captain next year Cricketers of note Nick Gubbins (Middlesex and England Lions); Archie MacLaren (Lancashire and England captain for 35 Tests between 1898 and 1909). Headmaster Sid Inglis won 3 international caps for Chile Brief history The Bramel Sports Hall is fitted with indoor nets and the outdoor cricket nets were updated in 2020. Two superb pavilions and earlier this year an astro wicket as well as new

wicket covers and grass nets next to the 1st XI pitch. Another recent arrival was a new mower. In 2020 Elstree became fully co-educational and now field mixed teams

Cultural cricketers Sir Alexander Robert Badcock (army o cer), James Blunt (singer-songwriter), Baron Bramall (Field Marshal), Sandy Wilson (songwriter-lyricist), Sebastian Faulks (novelist)

What sets the school apart The grounds at Elstree. The long-standing tradition of ‘Bat Room Cricket’ which is a lively component of break-time activities. This year the headmaster has awarded a signed mini bat to more than 40 pupils who have scored a half-century or taken five wickets Finest moment on the field Seeing girls and boys play together in teams. Luke Compton-Burnett scoring a hundred against Woodcote House. Tilly Lloyd’s caught and bowled in a U11s Mixed Cricket Festival at Wellington College A number of close victories in recent years, most notably against Ludgrove in 2020.

Future plans Further development of facilities

FELSTED PREP SCHOOL

Felsted, Dunmow, Essex CM6 3LL

Established 1564

Head of cricket Hector Bevitt-Smith and Nick Mansfield Professional Jason Gallian (Essex, Nottinghamshire & England) Teams U13 boys ABCDE, U13 girls ABCDEFG, U11 boys and girls’ ABCDE, U9 boys ABCD, girls AB Fixtures One fixture per week in the summer term for each team Facilities 5 hardball pitches. Access to 8 further hardball pitches at the senior school and nets with 10 lanes, plus 2 sports halls Club/county a liation Essex CCC Cricketers of note Derek Pringle (Essex & England), John Stephenson (Essex, Hampshire & England), Nick Knight

(Essex, Warwickshire & England), Elliott Wilson (Worcestershire), Tim Phillips (Essex)

Brief history Felsted has a formidable reputation for cricket both locally, regionally and nationally. Gordon Barker was an exceptional organiser in the 1970s. The school plays in a strong and traditional fixture list. It went fully co-educational in the last 20 years. The school hosted the 33rd annual ECB U15 festival, known as the David English Bunbury Festival, in 2019. A boys and girls’ team tied against Brentwood on the same day last summer. Gallian said: “Not only was it great to see boys and cricket fixtures back at school after the pandemic but to have two really exciting games on one day that ended in two draws within yards of each other was exceptional”

back at school after but to have two in two draws each other was

Jason Gallian in his Notts days; Derek Pringle (below)

FELTONFLEET SCHOOL

Byfleet Road, Cobham, Surrey KT11 1DR

Established 1903

Number of pupils 479

Director of cricket Andy Rishton (Loughborough MCCU & Berkshire)

Head of boys’ games James Thompson Teams 29 (boys and girls U8–U13)

Girls’ cricket Cricket has been the main summer sport for girls since 2017. This year the girls’ 1st and 2nd XI both played 15 hardball fixtures through the summer term, winning 11 games. Director of sport and master in charge are lead coaches for the girls’ 1st XI and U11A teams

Fixtures 251 last summer. Feltonfleet are on a strong Surrey circuit against a mixture of prep schools and senior schools including Epsom College, St John’s Leatherhead, Cranleigh, Downsend, Cranmore, Surbiton High School, Cumnor House Sussex and St George’s Weybridge. Trinity House School from Johannesburg tour each summer

Facilities 4 indoor nets, 4 outdoor nets, 3 batting cages. One ground on site which has a grass wicket as well as an astroturf strip. Local cricket clubs Club/county a liation Surrey CCC. They have helped support the development of indoor facilities, helping new nets in 2019 and new lighting this year. Horsley & Send

CC, Stoke d’Abernon CC, Cobham Avorians CC and Whiteley Village CC

Best prospect Nathan Farmer, a talented allrounder. He scored 576 runs and took 10 wickets this summer as he led the 1st XI to the Surrey Prep Schools’ Cup final. He has been part of the Surrey county age-group teams since he was an U9. He also plays for Ashtead CC adult 2nd XI

Cricketers of note Will Kendall (Hampshire) and Dan Cherry (Glamorgan)

Brief history Cricket at Feltonfleet has always had an established place in the heartbeat of the school.

Former Zimbabwe captain Andy Flower o cially opened the new pavilion in 2005. Girls’ cricket was o cially introduced as a core sport for girls in 2016/17. Feltonfleet has a historical link with Surrey CCC

Finest moment on the field The year just gone was the strongest at the school in recent memory.

The boys’ 1st XI won 13 of their 15 matches including victories over Danes Hill, Downsend, Rokeby, St John’s Leatherhead and Epsom College. The girls won eight of their nine matches with victories over Surbiton High School, St John’s Leatherhead, St George’s Weybridge and Epsom College

Future plans Replace current outdoor nets with a new, enclosed facility. Also planning to improve provision of cricket in the Pre-Prep Tours Caribbean Easter 2023

GRESHAM’S PREP SCHOOL

8 Cromer Road, Holt, Norfolk NR25 6EY

Established 1555

Number of pupils 250 Master in charge Chris Brown (director of cricket), Anna Horsley (head of girls’ cricket), Simon Worrall (head of boys’ cricket) Teams 24 from U9 to U13 – 12 boys and 12 girls

Girls’ cricket Cricket is the major sport for girls in the summer term. The same number of girls’ teams as boys. Hardball at U11A and B and U13A and B where opposition allows. Winter training sees girls combine with boys for coaching sessions delivered by senior coaches Fixtures Most teams play 6-8 fixtures with 10-14 at A-team level. Good fixtures include Norwich, Ipswich, Langley Prep and Beeston Hall Facilities 12 nets at the prep school, including 8 grass and 4 astro, 8 pitches prep and often use senior school pitches on Wednesday afternoons including U13A boys’ and girls’ using Senior 1st XI pitch. Use of the senior school sports hall Club/county a liation Cromer, Fakenham, Sheringham and Horsford CCs. In 2022, 13 from the prep school were successful in trials for Norfolk county age-groups Best prospect Arthur Butterworth, Norfolk U13 captain, scored lots of fifties in 2022. On the girls’ side, Amelie Horsley, current Norfolk U13 captain and opening bat, scored fifties in consecutive matches and regularly takes wickets with her varied o -spin. Olivia Marjoram,

fellow Norfolk U13 player, is a powerful middle order bat who has also taken plentiful wickets with her seamers

Brief history Squares have been reconfigured, with four new grass nets added in 2020. The configuration of fields is permanently under review to maximise the cricketing space for pupils. New squares added over recent years to accommodate the larger number of players created with the introduction of girls’ cricket in 2016

Cultural cricketers John Bradburne (lay missionary and possible new saint), Ben Youngs, Tom Youngs (rugby players), Sir James Dyson (entrepreneur) What sets the school apart

The Prep School has an idyllic ‘intown’ location for an afternoon’s cricket, plus excellent teas, with the 1919 War Memorial Chapel as its backdrop. There are two pavilions on the first team square. The new pavilion was opened 100 years to the day of the school match played in 1914; many of those 1914 pupils did not return from the First World War Finest moment on the field An opening partnership of 216 for U13As between Ben Wilcox and Nat King in 2017. Wilcox performing at the 2019 Bunbury Festival was an important moment for the school’s cricket programme

Recent progress A full girls’ 1st XI for the first year

Future plans Building academy programmes to allow more prep school children to benefit from the full range of cricketing expertise higher up the school

Tours U12 girls and boys toured Su olk this year

Director of Cricket

Andy Rishton

HEATHFIELD JUNIOR SCHOOL

Cobbett Rd, Twickenham TW2 6EN

Number of pupils 450 Master in charge James Watson Teams Boys: Year 4, Year 5AB, Year 6 ABC. Girls: Year 4, Year 5, Year 6 Girls’ cricket In addition to school teams, Heathfield girls’ teams play in festivals against club teams at Bushy Park Girls CC

Post-pandemic changes Middlesex CCC and Chance to Shine have been in to deliver sessions and help develop teachers. Former Surrey and England batsman Monte Lynch has been in one day a week for 18 weeks to deliver sessions. While other

schools have dropped PE lessons, Heathfield have timetabled extra lessons with a focus on cricket. The change of scenery from the classroom is a great way of improving pupils’ mood and motivation. On a Friday afternoon, it is commonplace for the headteacher to go around Year 4 classes and pull out the boys and girls cricket squad, from lessons, to play against Year 5s and 6s. In conjunction with Marcus Rashford’s FUEL programme and Achieving for Children, Heathfield provided a free cricket camp during Easter holidays, led by James Watson and Monte Lynch, for children on Free School Meals. They secured funding and sponsorship to run future camps during the summer (for 4 weeks) and Christmas holidays (for 8 days). Watson was shortlisted at the TES Awards and the Education and Business Award Fixtures Heathfield play local clubs and schools and enter local borough tournaments in Years 5 and 6 and represented the borough at a

Master in charge

Chance to Shine indoor competition. The Sta v Pupils match is always fun. But it is di cult to arrange fixtures against other local state schools Facilities Heathfield is a state school set in a deprived area. It has a field, a multi-use hall and a playground. Middlesex have donated a Flicx pitch Club/county a liation Great links with Middlesex, Chance to Shine and local clubs Bushy Park Girls, Sunbury, Teddington, Teddington Town and Twickenham. Scott Newman (ex-Surrey, Middlesex and Kent) has delivered five masterclass sessions. Monty Panesar came in for a masterclass and special assembly Best prospect Eisa Hadi is a Year 5 pupil who has tremendously quick hands and hits a long ball. He also bowls big inswingers at a good pace. He won the batting award for his age group at Sunbury CC last year Brief history Pre-lockdown the majority of children had never seen a cricket bat or cricket ball. Now cricket is the main sport at the school

with the highest participation levels. Cricket rather than football is played at break times. The schoolchildren sang the national anthem for 2021 T20 World Cup coverage

What sets the school apart Lynch says he has never seen such an uptake in a state school. Watson has helped deliver Richmond borough tournaments, and they are running All Stars and Dynamos cricket out of the school. Heathfield are also the face of Chance to Shine

Finest moment on the field Runners-up at London Youth Games in 2013

Recent progress The participation numbers and the impact cricket has had on children’s wellbeing. First time the school had a boy represent the borough team, in Aarav Hegede

Future plans To invest in nets that can surround the Flicx pitch. Looking to buy a bowling machine out of the school’s sports premium money. There will be more clubs on o er, all year round, for all levels of ability for girls and boys. Hoping to run a borough indoor cricket tournament. More teams for Year 3s

HIGHFIELD & BROOKHAM SCHOOLS

Highfield Lane, Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ

Established 1897 Master in charge Richard Dunn Teams 9 U13s, 3 U12s; 6 U11s; 6 U10s; 6 U9s; 8 U8s

Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket is the core sport for the girls in the summer term and has gone from strength to strength. Over the winter period, the girls were invited to give a choice about what they would like to wear for their matches. They choose the design of their tops and it was voted that they would all wear whites, which has been a fantastic development for this season Fixtures Usually around 230, with notable fixtures against Aldro, Twyford, Cranleigh and Westbourne House. Against Westbourne they compete for a Bursary Fund trophy in both boys and girls fixtures

Facilities Over the winter the school upgraded their indoor net facility from two to three and invested in 3 new outdoors artificial strips. In total,

12 cricket pitches, 4 grass nets, which include mobile cages, 3 artificial outdoor nets and 3 indoor nets, 3 bowling machines, 3 covers for the 1st XI square and 2 Flicx pitches used on the astro Club/county a liation A number of pupils play for Liphook & Ripsley, Fernhurst, Haslemere and Grayshott CCs as well as Hampshire Hogs CC. The school have recently signed

a sponsorship deal for the junior section shirts of Fernhurst CC for three years. Grayshott and Fernhurst both rent out pitches at weekends and Hampshire Schools used the 1st XI square last summer Best prospect Tom Reid has been playing in the 1st XI in Year 6. His knowledge of fielding positions and his awareness in the field is beyond his years. Ella Gri th was taking wickets

and scoring runs all season and is playing county age-group cricket What sets the school apart

The school achieves both performance and participation, with the 1st XI reaching the latter stages of the IAPS Cup Finest moment on the field At the junior end of the school they have been playing some mixed cricket matches which they hope to build on next year. The U11A team are unbeaten and have some very strong players

Recent progress The continued investment in facilities and coaching courses for the sta

Future plans Plans to renovate the outdoor net facility into a five-bay astro complex. They will continue to promote our facilities to local clubs. They will also promote joint ventures so that clubs can work together to promote the game rather than compete for players

Tours In Easter 2023 they head to Barbados with a number of Year 7 and 8s for the school’s 10th Caribbean tour

James Watson

HOLMEWOOD HOUSE SCHOOL

Barrow Lane, Langton Green, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN3 0EB

Established 1945

Number of pupils 440 Master in charge James Hockley (Kent)

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U11AB, U10AB, U9AB (pairs) and U8AB (pairs); Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U11AB (pairs), U10ABC (pairs), U9AB (pairs), U8AB (pairs)

Girls’ cricket Cricket is very strong and the major summer sport Post-pandemic changes They have been very keen to maintain cricketing traditions as well as add to the girls’ fixture list. The 1st XI girls now play hardball cricket Facilities 10 outdoor nets, 4 indoor nets, 3 cricket squares (boys), 3 cricket squares (girls) Club/county a liation Clubs use the school facilities in winter. Pupils play locally at clubs such as Tunbridge Wells, Penshurst Park, Withyham, Mayfield and Bells Yew Green

Best prospect Oliver Willsdon plays for St James’ CC. A batsman who has represented Sussex at U10-U13 level and gained a sports scholarship to Hurstpierpoint. Charles Skarbek plays for Withyham CC – a batsman who currently plays for Kent and gained a sports scholarship to Tonbridge Brief history Cricket has been played in glorious surroundings since 1945, a passion for the children, sta and parents. Holmewood House has a

rich cricketing history and its cricket wickets are envied by the schools they play against. Bob Woolmer (Kent & England) was a PE teacher there in the 1970s

Cricketers of note Tony Pigott (Sussex, Surrey & England), Alice Davidson-Richards (Kent, Yorkshire Diamonds, South East Stars & England), Dr Julian Thompson (Kent), Matthew Banes (Kent), Ben Hutton (Middlesex), Marcus

O’Riordan (Kent & Ireland A), Coco Streets (Kent), Toby Pettman (Nottinghamshire)

Cultural cricketers Nana AkufoAddo (president of Ghana), Sir Terence Etherton (Master of The Rolls), Andy Zaltzman (comedian and TMS statistician), Shane MacGowan (The Pogues)

What sets the school apart They think they have one of the best prep school wickets in the country

Finest moment on the field Winning the JET Cup in 1993, the Tonbridge School U11 6-a-side competition in 2011 and 2022 and Mark Benson six-a-side competition at Sutton Valence in 2021

Recent progress The children are really enjoying their cricket and everybody has the chance to represent the school. Hosted a ‘Bowl Out Racism’ day

Future plans Host more tournaments for boys and girls, upgrade to an electronic scoreboard, and see more children playing in local clubs

Tours Have toured the West Indies and South Africa in the past, and are considering future tours

derbies v Brighton College and Ardingly College are always close a airs. They host touring teams from across the country and these are always memorable occasions Facilities 7 grass pitches, 3 astro pitches, new bank of 12 astro nets, 3 pavilions, 10 grass nets, 3 other

Club/county a liation Close links with Sussex CCC who use school grounds as a junior hub during the summer. Many school sta also coach

midweek. A very competitive fixture list and play teams across the southeast of England

Cricketers of note George Garton, Jack Carson and Tom Haines (all Sussex), Jonty Jenner (Jersey)

What sets the school apart One of the longest squares in the country. A hub for Sussex cricket from this season. Hosts Hurst Cricket Week where old boys’ teams from all around the country come and camp and play a series of matches during a week in August

HURSTPIERPOINT

COLLEGE PREP SCHOOL

Chalkers Lane, Hurstpierpoint, Sussex BN6 9JS

Established 1849

Number of pupils 350 Master in charge Ben Dewey (head of boys’ sport)

Professionals Jimmy Anyon (Sussex & Warwickshire), Mark Nash (Sussex), Paige Scholfield (Sussex, Southern Vipers, Southern Brave)

Teams

U11ABCD, U9ABCD; Girls: U13ABCDE, U11ABCD, U9ABCD

Girls’ cricket 12 teams from U8-U13. The school has a head of girls’ cricket and a women’s cricket professional (Scholfield) to inspire and develop pupils

Fixtures have around 10 fixtures. Local

Best prospect Oliver Godden is leaving for Millfield. A chirpy, fast wicketkeeper and very powerful batsman, part of the Sussex set-up Brief history

Cricket is the major sport for boys and girls in the summer term. Hurst has a strong cricket history and has had success at all age levels. Fixtures take place every Saturday and also

Finest moment on the field Senior school won National T20 four years ago

Recent progress The introduction of girls’ cricket has been prolific. The school has led this in the area and now have a similar number of girls’ to boys’ teams throughout the school

Future plans The new bank of 12 nets is now ready for use. The school will continue as a junior cricket hub for Sussex Cricket

Tours UK-based cricket tour for the prep school. The senior school toured South Africa two years ago and were due to tour India this year

astro nets

at Sussex

LOCKERS PARK

Lockers Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP1 1TL

Established 1874

Number of pupils 175 Master in charge Jack Doyle (director of sport) Teams U13 ABCD, U11 ABCD, U9 ABCD

U13

Post-pandemic changes

During the pandemic, participation numbers fell dramatically. Since the return to normal school, Lockers Park have o ered drop-in clinics during the Saturday school o ering, as well as making all sessions enjoyable and engaging

Fixtures Around 80 fixtures across the term ranging from local block fixtures for all age groups, as well as U11 and U13 County Cup games. Most notable Haileybury in previous years

Facilities One grass square at the front of the school and

LUDGROVE SCHOOL

Ludgrove, Wokingham, Berkshire RG40 3AB

Established 1892

Number of pupils 190 Master in charge Gabriel French Teams 16

Post-pandemic changes Instead of biannual tours to South Africa, Ludgrove are running annual tours to Spain. Luckily things have more or less returned to normal, and other then changes to the way teas are served, the school are back to running things as they did previously Fixtures 12 fixtures, with Summerfields, Caldicott and Lambrook the most competitive

Facilities Four astro nets, eight grass nets and four indoor nets, nine cricket pitches Club/county a liation Full-time boarding school, so many boys play their cricket at various London/Berkshire and Hampshire clubs

Best prospect William Wates is a boy in Year 7 and has already picked up a five-for against Twyford and consistently taken wickets and scored runs playing a year up in the U13 side

an astroturf strip on the back fields. Softball cricket on astroturf and train across 3 outdoor artificial nets and 4 indoor nets Club/county a liation Harpenden CC and Tring Park CC are two notable ones, plus Hemel Hempstead CC and Berkhamsted CC also have boys playing. Links to Hertfordshire CCC and Buckinghamshire CCC

Best prospect Leon VandraSimon – an opening bowler and top order batsman currently playing in U11A team. He plays both club and

were the first school in Hertfordshire to introduce limited-overs cricket

(Warwickshire)

Cultural cricketers Lord Louis Mountbatten, Sir Alistair Aird, MPs Keith Joseph, Sir Anthony Berry, Paul Channon, Guy Mansfield, James Honeybourne

Cricketers of note Stanley

representative cricket outside school. Barney Hancock – a top order batter and leg-spinner. Eddie Mitchell –bowls medium pace for the U9A side Brief history Starting with Henry Draper in 1874, Lockers Park has been blessed with a serious of headmasters who were fanatical cricketers, and it has always been a sport for all with cricket played every day throughout the summer term. In the 1970s they were the first school in Hertfordshire to introduce limited-overs cricket and recently have embraced 100ball games in coloured kit and flashing bails Cricketers of note Jackson (England), Brian Valentine (Kent & England), Nawab of Pataudi & India), Tom Pugh Panayi (Warwickshire

Nawab of Pataudi (Sussex (Gloucestershire), Ronnie Aird (Hampshire & MCC president), George & England U19), George Garrett

What sets the school apart Lockers Park v Ludgrove was one of the earliest recorded prep school matches. Stanley Jackson was the first England cricketer to receive a knighthood and Nawab of Pataudi –coached by Frank Woolley at Lockers Park – went on to be one of the key cricketing figures of the 20th century Finest moment on the field In 2011 the side was led by the opening pair who were part of an unbeaten season, 14 matches, and took part in the South Africa tour

Recent progress The number of pupils who have joined local clubs Future plans New sports hall development will increase the net facility. Taster and coaching sessions for local primary schools and local girls schools to get more children playing cricket

Tours Regular tours to South Africa, are planned in 2023/24

MERCHANT TAYLORS’ PREP SCHOOL

Moor Farm, Sandy Lodge Road, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 1LW

Established 2015 (formerly Northwood Prep)

Number of pupils 350 day boys Master in charge Christopher Horne Teams U8ABCD, U9ABCD, U10ABCD, U11ABCD, U12AB and U13AB

Post-pandemic changes A full and competitive fixture list has resumed with some new as well as traditional matches. Merchant Taylors’ enter tournaments in every age group, including Hertfordshire Schools U13 Cup for the first time, where they will compete against state and independent senior schools Fixtures 60 regular matches typically. They enter the IAPS National Cup (U13) and Herts Schools’ County Cup (U11 and U13)

Facilities Two pitches at the prep school, a specialist cricket groundsman, 2 outdoor mobile nets and 4 indoor nets on site. Roll-on covers, sightscreens and scoring hut on main wicket. Two bowling machines, including latest TrueMan. Access to the many wickets and nets at the senior school Club/county a liation Most A team boys in all age groups play district, area or county cricket (Herts and Middlesex). Strong connections with Old Merchant Taylors’ CC and Eastcote CC

Best prospect Agastya Daphale (Middlesex U13), opening batsman

and captain, Ayaan Diddee (Middlesex U13), opening bowler and vice-captain

Brief history It is genuinely cricket for all at Merchant Taylors’ Prep and competitive cricket at a high level for the most keen. Boys play cricket at break time rather than football and many play club cricket. Success at county and regional level, with a traditionally strong North London circuit, has built the school’s cricketing reputation

Cultural cricketers Sir David Lidington KCB CBE (former MP and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster) What sets the school apart Middlesex CCC train and play first-class matches at the adjacent Merchant Taylors’ School. The Prep School has enjoyed coaching masterclasses from Angus Fraser, Eoin Morgan, Steven Finn, Alastair Cook and Muttiah Muralitharan. More boys play club cricket than any other sport

Finest moment on the field Final of the IAPS in 2022 (v Taunton) and 2015 (v Millfield), Hertfordshire Schools’ U11 Cup winners 2018, 2019 and 2021 (three in a row). East Of England Schools’ U11 winner 2019 and finalist 2018, U11 national finals 2019

Recent progress Making U13 national final, winning U9 and U13 tournaments. The coaching sta is strong and includes the area coach for Herts

Future plans Further development of cricket enrichment programme with Merchant Taylors’ senior school Tours Tours to Antigua and Barbados in the past but Covid has stopped any planning at present

MILLFIELD PREP SCHOOL

Edgarley Hall, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 8LD

Established 1945 Number of pupils 450 Master in charge David Beal (director of cricket) Teams Boys U13ABC, U12ABCD, U11ABC, U10AB, U9AB, U8; Girls U13ABCD, U12ABC, U11AB, U10AB, U9AB

Post-pandemic changes A few more internal matches as the school can control the match more Fixtures 100-plus matches for the Development, boys and girls teams Facilities 8 outdoor nets, 4 indoor nets, cage for middle wicket practice; 9 grass wickets and 2 artificial wickets Club/county a liation Strong links with Somerset youth programmes. Millfield’s director of cricket runs their U10 and U11 boys programme

Best prospect Connor Pearce, an U11 playing up at county who scored his first school hundred last summer Brief history Cricket is the major summer game at Millfield Prep. A full fixture list allows every child the opportunity to participate. In recent years the boys’ 1st XI have regularly won the David Bunbury and National Prep Schools titles. High numbers of Millfield Prep cricketers have represented county sides (mainly Somerset) at U13, U12, U11 and U10 level and very significant numbers of old boys have graduated to play first-class cricket for various counties, with at least 10 currently doing so. Experienced coaches o er a well-structured winter programme of training and coaching, with individual coaching lessons available. Two bowling machines are much used to assist coaching and player

development

Cricketers of note Peter Denning, David Graveney, Jonathan Atkinson, Harvey Trump, Iain Fletcher, Piran Holloway, Aftab Habib, Jeremy Hallett, Wes Durston, Ben Hollioake, James Hildreth, Max Waller, Robin Lett, Ben Duckett, Daniel BellDrummond, Matt Hobden, Charlie Hartley, Cameron Steel, George Hankins, Will Smeed, Kasey Aldridge and Sam Young

Cultural cricketers Roland Rudd (PR), Chris Robshaw (rugby), Richard and Simon Mantell (hockey), Ella Eyre (musician)

What sets the school apart A chance for pupils at the start of their cricketing exposure to acquire and develop skills, but also caters for pupils who have had more experience and want to extend their knowledge and skill level. With facilities not matched for this age and coaches who have a desire to guide and help facilitate development, every pupil will develop. The fixture list is unrivalled, with over half of the development squads fixtures being against county opposition, including Somerset, Gloucestershire, Devon and Wales

Finest moment on the field Between 2014-15 the Senior Development Squash (U13) boys won three trophies, National Bunbury Cup, National RNCF (JET) Cup and the Somerset County Trophy. The team also went on to beat every team they played that season, including seven county sides, going 26 games unbeaten. Winning the national girls indoor competition for the third time this year

Recent progress Winning the Lady Taverners indoor competition

Future plans 4 more artificial wickets in out pitches

NOTTINGHAM ACADEMY

PRIMARY

Greenwood Road, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire NG3 7EB

Established 2009

Number of pupils 784

PACKWOOD HAUGH SCHOOL

Park Bank, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HX

Established 1892

Number of pupils 220 Master in charge Paul Phillips Professionals Darrell Corfield, James Wodja and Tyler Ibbotson Teams 4 – U13 Boys, 2 U13 Girls, 4 U11 Boys, 2 U11 Girls, 4 U9 Boys, 2 U9 Girls Girls’ cricket Girls play cricket as the major game of the summer term, joining boys’ sessions where appropriate. Many opportunities for mixed cricket in both hardball and softball formats resulting in girls progressing on the player pathway. U13 girls won the Shropshire indoor competition this year Post-pandemic changes Cricket’s popularity has grown. Boys and girls have been successful in the Shropshire Cricket Board winter programme and gained representation at both district and county level. A full inter-school match programme along with a strong Sixes (House) programme for all pupils

Master in charge Andrew Staszkiewicz (assistant principal) Teams Year 6 Boys, Year 6 Girls, Year 5 Boys and Girls. Little Wickets within school as well with Year 1 and 2 children

Girls’ cricket Girls take full part in cricket sessions during PE and

the school also has its our own girls cricket team

Post-pandemic changes If anything, more cricket o ered to children as a result of them missing experiences during the pandemic. PE sessions running right across school linked to cricket at various points in the year

Fixtures Around 20-30 fixtures based on how teams fair in tournaments. The biggest fixtures are always county cup games Facilities An outdoor net on a concrete playground and an artificial pitch on a field. The school pride themselves in making the most out of the facilities available Club/county a liation Nottinghamshire CCC run all local festivals and tournaments that Nottingham Academy take part in. More recently, Dynamos Cricket have used the school field to hold weekly community sessions for 5-11-year-olds

Best prospect Dipesh Sapkota is a batsman and o -spinner, part of the Notts U11 and U12 sides. He made a highest score of 99 not out this year

representing Notts and was a brilliant captain of the school team Brief history A school based in a community that loves cricket. Children pick up cricket bats and balls for play times when at other schools it would always be a football. Nottingham Academy don’t have the facilities that other schools boast but have a natural energy and enthusiasm for the sport that runs throughout

What sets the school apart How many children love playing cricket in their social time at school. Cricket clubs are always full and children love taking part Finest moment on the field In 2022 Nottingham Academy were crowned Dynamos county champions for the first time

Recent progress The development of cricket for all ages. Using Little Wickets as a provider for their youngest children has helped to raise the profile of the sport even more Future plans To build a lasting link with a local club so that players can continue playing once they leave primary school

Fixtures This year 55 matches organised for boys’ teams and 32 for girls’ teams. The 1st XI, colts XI, U13 girls and U11 girls attended local tournaments such as the Malvern Eights, Shrewsbury Prep Schools tournament, Wrekin Sixes and ESCA U11 Hardball Cup

Facilities Four indoor nets, four artificial outdoor nets, six grass nets, nine grounds (including one artificial and two squares) Club/county a liation Local clubs, plus Shropshire county and district teams

Best prospect A number of pupils on

the performance pathway that access additional coaching and playing opportunities with the SCB Brief history Cricket was played at Packwood since the school’s earliest days. JD Wyatt-Smith was an outstanding player before the First World War, averaging more than 100 runs each season and in one match taking 10 for 0, including one wicket when a flying bail was caught by a long-stop. He held the junior record for throwing the cricket ball (104 yards). The strength of Packwood cricket has continued to grow Cricketers of note Tim Lamb

(Middlesex, Northamptonshire & ECB chief executive)

What sets the school apart? With cricket as the major sport for both boys and girls, all pupils involved in matches on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons, with di erent formats provided as appropriate Finest moment on the field National Final U11 Hardball Finals Day at Oakham; U13 girls reaching finals of the Lady Taverners National Indoor competition three years running 2014, 2015 and 2016; U13s reaching the JET Cup finals day at St Edward’s, Oxford

Recent progress Thanks to a change in the timetable, all pupils access quality cricket coaching from senior coaches. Additional cricket professionals employed to increase access to individual and paired lessons through the year Future plans Plans underway to improve access to a winter programme, including a return to the Lady Taverners competition for girls Tours Colts XI travelled to Cothill House for a two-day format in 2022

PRESTFELDE PREP SCHOOL

London Road, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY2 6NZ

Established 1929

Number of pupils 360 Master in charge Mike Haswell Teams 11 boys (2 U9s, 2 U10s, 2 U11s, 5 U13s) and 10 girls (2 U9s, 2 U10s, 2 U11s, 2 U13s)

Girls’ cricket Both girls’ teams and also girls within boys’ teams on merit Post-pandemic changes More internal fixtures, greater o er of clubs Fixtures 60. Packwood Haugh the most notable Facilities 4 squares, 8 rough strips for softball, 6 grass nets, 2 astro nets Club/county a liation Shropshire Cricket use facilities for training, matches and Chance to Shine programmes

Brief history Traditionally an allboys’ school, cricket has long since been a major sport at Prestfelde on the beautiful grounds. Since becoming fully co-ed, girls cricket is flourishing over recent years. Many

REPTON PREP SCHOOL

Foremarke Hall, Milton, Derbyshire DE65 6EJ

Established 1940

Number of pupils 450 Master in charge Chris Simons (acting head of cricket)

Professional Chris Read (Nottinghamshire & England)

Teams U13 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI; U13 Girls 1st XI, 2nd XI; U11 Boys AB; 3 U11 Girls ABC; U10 Boys AB; U10 Girls ABC; U9 Mixed ABC Girls’ cricket Weekly Wednesday fixtures for Girls U13, U11 and U10 teams. Cricket is compulsory for Years 3-6, and the uptake in Y7/8 has increased year-by-year. The U13 Girls were recently indoor county champions and finished as runnersup in the regional finals. Seven girls involved in county age-group pathways

Fixtures 115 – fixtures every Wednesday (all teams), as well as A-teams on a Saturday. Trent College and Derbyshire/Nottinghamshire age-group fixtures the most notable

Facilities 4 outdoor artificial nets, sports hall with 3 nets, 2 grass wickets for hardball cricket (1 U13 pitch, 1 U11 pitch), 1 artificial wicket, 5 softball pitches/areas Club/county a liation Ticknall CC, Derbyshire CCC, Notts CCC. The school have girls/boys who play for the Junior Age Groups. Repton also host matches for Derbyshire age-groups

Best prospect Omaris Khan

(Warwickshire U13 and EPP) scored two hundreds in 2022, as well as representing the senior school at U14, U15 and U17 level

Brief history A strong history of cricket at the school, playing an extensive and competitive fixture list each summer for boys and girls against other top prep schools in the midlands

Cultural cricketers Tom Chambers (actor), Will Hughes (footballer), Georgie Twigg (hockey)

What sets the school apart Hosting county-age group matches and international age-group teams in recent years. Hosting of IAPS festivals and other tournaments for boys and girls in various age groups. Five ECBqualified coaches, including Read who is Level 4

Finest moment on the field U13 Girls Indoor County Champions and regional runners-up Recent progress Continued progress of the girls set-up

pupils represent local clubs, represent Shropshire and go on to play 1st XI cricket at their chosen senior school

Finest moment on the field 2019 U13 David English Bunbury national champions

Recent progress Girls playing cricket is now the norm and widely accepted as part of the summer programme

ROKEBY PREP SCHOOL

George Road, Kingston upon Thames, Surrey KT2 7PB

Established 1877

Number of pupils 400 Master in charge Rob Williams Professional Andy Gannaway Teams At senior level (Years 7 & 8) six teams throughout the season utilising all 66 boys at the age group in weekly fixtures. Four teams at Year 6, five at Year 5, six at Year 4 and seven in each of Years 1, 2 and 3

Girls’ cricket An all-boys’ school, but Holy Cross Girls Prep School, Kingston used grounds for a whole Year 3 (96 children) two-hour coaching session for four of the last six seasons

Post-pandemic changes Started pre-season training using on-site net facilities from mid-February to replicate the early start to the previous season

Fixtures From U6 through to 1st XI 160 matches per season. Block fixtures with Shrewsbury House, Parkside, Downsend, Danes Hill, Cranmore

SHREWSBURY HOUSE SCHOOL

107 Ditton Rd, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 6RL

Established 1865 Number of pupils 350 Master in charge Billy Davison (director of sport), Danny Baker (head of cricket)

Teams Regularly put out 1st to 8th XIs every week. In younger years boys are streamed by ability (A-D teams) and thereafter selected in teams named after counties. These teams not only play in inter-school competition, but also in the inaugural SHS ‘County Championship’ event. There are 6-8 teams in each of the Year 3-6 groups, plus the annual house competition in all years

Girls’ cricket A boys’ school, but the SHS-hosted Primary Festival of Sport supports boys’ and girls’ participation from local primary schools Post-pandemic changes Awarding boys ‘value prizes’ for demonstrating integrity, respect, perseverance, aspiration and compassion.

Facilities

Multi-purpose hall and three astroturf nets at the school site. Rokeby Sports Grounds situated near Worcester Park: four grass squares all containing an astroturf pitch Club/county a liation Surrey CCC, plus Wimbledon, Spencer, Sunbury, Esher, Teddington, Hampton Wick, NPL Teddington and especially Malden Wanderers

Best prospect Three U10 cricketers involved in county pathways: Seb Pearson (Middlesex), Matthew Thomas and Caspar Broadrick (both Surrey). They helped the school U10A team win all 10 games this season

Brief history Prior to the school moving to Kingston in 1965, Wimbledon Common was used but most matches were staged away from Rokeby. In the early 1970s Donhead dismissed Rokeby at U11 level for 0! In 1985 the school reached agreement with Malden Wanderers to use their

grounds and cricket really took o as a major sport. Competitions won include the Charterhouse Sixes, the Wellington College Sixes (on three occasions) and the Rokeby Sixes (on five occasions), Surrey Prep Schools Cup (three occasions) and the Surrey Schools Cricket Association Cup (twice). Reached the National Finals of the ESCA 8-a-side competition three times in eight years Cricketers of note Joe Porter (1988–93) has most of Rokeby’s batting records, and went on to play for Surrey and captain British Universities. Richard O’Grady (1999–2008) played first-class for Oxford University Cultural cricketers Oliver Reed and

Richard Briers

What sets the school apart Host of England and Surrey Deaf. A Century Bat records every boy who has ever scored a hundred for Rokeby since 1994

Finest moment on the field The 2011 U11 8-a-side team won the national title from an original list of over 330 schools, including a threerun win over Millfield in the semi-final Future plans New scoreboards installed on three of the grounds Tours Returning to Sri Lanka on a full-scale tour in spring 2024. Toured Manchester in April with 42 boys, hosted by the King’s School, Macclesfield

Classroom theory lessons to encourage boys to look at tactics

Fixtures 150-plus during summer term (in addition to the autumn term season, house cricket and SHS County Championship).

The most notable Whitgift, Trinity, St Paul’s, King’s College Wimbledon and Danes Hill Facilities 4G all-weather-surface allows SHS to support boys’ development in both practice and in competitive matches (soft and hardball cricket) even in the rain. Four indoor and two outdoor nets. At the Almshouse Lane Sports Ground a brand-new £3.5m pavilion is being built. Now able to o er five

outdoor nets and another main cricket field used by Wimbledon CC Club/county a liation Surrey CCC, Wimbledon CC, Chessington CC (who use the indoor nets to train) and Maori Oxshott CC (who use the sports fields). Esher CC a popular destination for SHS boys

Best prospect 15 boys attended Surrey trials last year with eight making their county debuts in 2022 Brief history Cricket played at SHS since at least 1897. During WW2, half the school moved to Devon and half remained in Surbiton, and the ‘two schools’ played each other. In 1986 SHS scored 130 for 4 against Rokeby

and then bowled them out for just 11 Cultural cricketers Lord MacLaurin (ECB chairman 1997-2002), Stirling Moss (F1 driver)

What sets the school apart

Involved in one of the first interschool prep school cricket matches in 1897. All boys play competitive interschool matches

Finest moment on the field Winners of Winchester College U12 tournament in 2017 and 2018. Winners of Surrey Prep Schools Cup eight times. Winners of Surrey Watcyn Evans Cup three times. Winners of Tonbridge U11 Tournament four times. Winners of Wellington U11 Tournament three times

Recent progress Every single boy played a minimum of five meaningful cricket matches against external schools. iPads to give instant feedback

Future plans A new U8 cricket festival o ering Year 3s their first experience of a cricket festival. Keen to develop teachers and senior boys with cricket coaching and umpiring CPD training

Tours St Lucia awaits 40 boys in March 2023

Head of cricket Danny Baker

Master in charge Rob Williams

SPRATTON HALL SCHOOL

Smith Street, Spratton, Northamptonshire NN6 8HP

Established 1951

Number of pupils 400

Master in charge Gareth Barnard (head of boys’ games), Sarah Blason (head of girls’ games)

Teams 25 totally mixed from Years 3-8 Girls’ cricket Cricket was made the main summer sport for girls in 2018 Post-pandemic changes In 2021 Spratton Hall created several mixed teams, so well received that in 2022

they changed to mixed teams across the whole prep school. Nine main cricket coaches who coach boys and girls from age six upwards

Fixtures 150. Bilton Grange, Witham Hall, Bedford Prep, Stamford, Oakham, Warwick and Beachborough

Facilities 8 astro nets, 3 grass nets, 10 grass wickets, 6 astro wickets and an indoor sports dome. The facilities are of such a high standard that they are used by junior county teams for some matches and in the past Northamptonshire CCC have

used the grounds for training and summer camps Club/county a liation Overstone Park, Old Northamptonians, Brixworth, East Haddon and Nether Heyford. Eight pupils representing Northants in 2022

Best prospect Emelia Hull and Charles Guest both going to Rugby School and play for Northants. Imogen Turney, Teddy Green, Milo Green, Eddie Greany

Brief history Boys’ cricket played since 1951

Cricketers of note Rob White (Northants)

Cultural cricketers Tenniel Evans (actor), Mark Haddon (author), Michael Ellis (MP) and Harry Mallinder (Northampton Saints & England rugby), Robbie Povey (Canada rugby), Max Fryatt (New Zealand Schools), Toby Cousins (England U18 and Northampton Saints), George Patten (Northampton Saints)

What sets the school apart A ‘sport for all’ philosophy applies strongly, and all age groups from Years 2 to 8 play it as their main summer sport.

A desire to ensure that boys and girls have equal access to facilities, coaches and competitive play, which is why they mixed all teams. Every child plays cricket in a team for their school at a level that they feel comfortable with, be that in hardball or softball

Finest moment on the field 1st XI boys went unbeaten in 2017. 1st XI Girls were indoor county champions having won the National Lady Taverners U13 Indoor competition. Unfortunately, the regional round in Cambridge and the final at Lord’s were both lost to Covid

Recent progress How quickly the girls adapted to playing cricket as their main summer sport. There is the option for both boys and girls to choose soft or hardball cricket depending on their confidence and ability

Future plans Spratton Hall feel they now have all the facilities they need, so are focusing on providing the best coaching for all pupils

Tours In July 2021 a Yorkshire Year 8 tour. In June 2022 a Norfolk 1st XI and Year 8 mixed tour. Spratton host touring teams too

Shrewsbury House School is an outstanding IAPS Independent Prep School for boys aged 7–13 located in Surbiton, Surrey. With a superb academic record, committed staff, small class sizes and dedicated pastoral care, every boy has the opportunity to fulfil his potential. Shrewsbury House School has a national reputation for success in Scholarships and Awards to top day and boarding Senior Schools at 13+.

‘The quality of the pupils’ academic and other achievements is excellent.’

ST ANDREW’S PREP, EASTBOURNE

Meads Street, Eastbourne, Sussex BN20 7RP

Established 1877

Number of pupils 390 Master in charge Mark Tomsett (head of pastoral care and boarding) Professional Rob Ferley (Kent & Nottinghamshire), James Tredwell (Kent & England)

Teams 13 boys’, nine girls’ Girls’ cricket Cricket is the main summer sport for girls with weekly fixtures and games lessons. St Andrew’s have followed the Cricket for Girls programme established by Lydia Greenway. The school sta have been informed in CPD to develop their subject knowledge. The school have six players on the county pathway and moving forward are developing links with local clubs. The 1st XI play hardball and the school is looking to introduce hardball for U11s next year

Fixtures

Facilities

70 for boys, 50 for girls

St Andrew’s forms part of Eastbourne College Inc. As a result, facilities are shared across both schools, with eight indoor nets across the two sites, eight astroturf outdoor nets, three grass wicket pitches on St

Andrew’s school site and a further four grounds of Eastbourne College Club/county a liation Eastbourne CC and Sussex Cricket Foundation, as a number of players are involved in the district and country pathway programme. The school also sponsors East Dean CC – a small local club which focuses on junior development

Best prospect Adam Ibrahim (brother of Sussex’s Danial), a patient top order batsman and an attacking o -spinner who changes his pace well

ST FAITH’S SCHOOL

Trumpington Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire CB2 8AG

Established 1884

quick and accurate bowler, dynamic fielder, but also a capable wicketkeeper

Brief history KS Ranjitsinhji came to the school to acclimatise before heading onto Cambridge University. From then on cricket has been held in very high regard in the school, now accessible for all children

Cricketers of note Justin Benson (Ireland), Nikhail Gorantla (Essex 2nd XI)

Cultural cricketers Sir Christopher Cockerell (Inventor of the hovercraft), Prof Lord Robert Mair, Sir John Tusa, Tom Williams (BBC sports presenter), Alastair Bruce-Ball (BBC sports presenter), John Maynard Keynes, Prof David Thouless (Nobel Prize Winner, Physics), John Storey (Olympic rower), John Peake (Olympic hockey), Alex Goode (England rugby), Tessa Howard (GB Hockey) and Katie Curtis (GB Hockey)

teams and 120 fixtures a season. The

Brief history Cricket is the main summer sport. With the introduction of girls’ cricket two years ago, St Andrew’s now boast more than 22 teams and 120 fixtures a season. The U12 boys were Sussex champions in 2017. In 2018, as a result of winning the Sussex Cup, the school were entered into the Bunbury U13 National Cup as the Sussex representatives.

2019 saw the 1st XI finish third in the U13 IAPS national Knockout Cup and also win the U13 Sussex Cup. In 2022 the 1st XI reached the last eight in the country in the IAPS Finest moment on the field 2017 U12 county champions and third-place in the U13 IAPS

Recent progress Development of girls’

the 1st XI reached the Finest moment on the field cricket

Number of pupils 570 Master in charge John Welch Teams U12/U13 (Mixed): 4 Boys, 4 Girls; U11: 3 Boys, 4 Girls; U10: 4 Boys, 4 Girls; U9: 4 Boys, 4 Girls; U8: 4 Boys, 4 Girls Girls’ cricket Every girl is given the opportunity to play cricket from Year 1 to 8 and all play matches from Year 4 upwards. St Faith’s have been leaders in the eastern region as the first school in the area to fully convert from rounders to cricket. Around 80 per cent of local schools have followed suit Post-pandemic changes Cricket has never been approached with more enthusiasm. The school have made use of digital gains as well as focusing on quality over quantity. Mixed cricket through all year group training and have redesigned the cricket programme to ensure maximum participation from each pupil in every situation Fixtures Every team has between seven to nine fixtures and tournaments. Include Bedford, Felsted and Bishop’s Stortford Facilities 10 outdoor pitches (4 grass, 6 all-weather) and 2 indoor nets, 8 Kwik Cricket pitches Club/county a liation Cambridge CC train at the school and First Choice Coaching Cricket Company use the facilities. Pupils tend to make up around 20-50 per cent of most Cambridgeshire county age-group teams, plus a number of alumni have gone on to play for the full Cambs side Best prospect Harry Silverwood (Year 6) is a technically proficient, hard-hitting batsman, exceptionally

What sets the school apart The school ensure that every boy and girl in every team through the school is taught by a cricket specialist. The school have also organised County Cup B team tournaments as well as A to get more children involved. On a Wednesday afternoon St Faith’s consistently have 15 teams playing through Years 6, 7 and 8. U11 Girls county champions for the last six years, have hosted U11 Boys and Girls IAPS Cricket events

Finest moment on the field Every boy and girl from Years 3 to 8 representing the school within two weeks in 2019

Recent progress The strength in depth in each year group

Future plans To develop yeargroup festivals with as many local primary schools as possible and to engage with local clubs. To run Inset programmes for local primary school teachers

STAMFORD JUNIOR SCHOOL

Kettering Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire PE9 2LR

Established 1532

Number of pupils 360 Master in charge Richard Lang (head of sport)

Professional Dean Headley (Kent, Worcestershire, Middlesex & England)

Teams U11ABCDEFGH, U10ABCDEFGH, U9ABCDEF, U8ABCDEF – all mixed gender and formats

Girls’ cricket All pupils participate in cricket as the major summer sport. They can also choose to come to after-school clubs and choose cricket in their optional session

Fixtures 130. The most notable is Witham Hall

Facilities 4 indoor nets, 5 outdoor nets, 2 artificial wickets, 2 large astroturfs for Flicx wickets and 5 cutout grass wickets for softball matches Club/county a liation An association with Burghley CC but also proactive with other clubs Stamford

SUMMER FIELDS

Mayfield Road, Oxford, Oxfordshire OX2 7EN

Established 1864

Number of pupils Oliver Bishop Director of sport Joe Porter (Surrey & Oxfordshire)

Teams 22 (U7, U8, U9ABCD, U10ABCD, U11ABCD, U12ABCD, U13ABCD)

Post-pandemic changes Boys from the Video Production Unit filmed the matches on the 1st XI square allowing the games to be viewed on YouTube worldwide. This has expanded to a second matchday team who video the colts’ square

Fixtures 140. Often play at senior schools such as Harrow, St Edward’s and Stowe. The fixture with Ludgrove is the biggest block. This year the U12As played on the Cheltenham College 1st XI square, just a couple of weeks before their Gloucestershire festival

Facilities 5 indoor nets, 5 artificial nets and 6 grass nets. 9 pitches on a 70-acre site

CC, Barnack CC and Ketton CC

of the main school

Hardball

Cricketers, Hardball Development Squad and

Softball

action with either softball or hardball cricket being played

on the Main Oval. In Year 6

Best prospect W Clarke (Leicestershire U11s) is an allrounder and captain of the U11A team Brief history The Stamford schools have a rich history of playing cricket and Stamford Junior School is no exception. Cricket has been part of the major games programme since it o cially relocated to its own site in 1976. Once in situ, pupils have enjoyed playing cricket on one of its many fields, including the Main Oval in front of the main school building. For the last four years, cricket has been the major sport in the summer term and all pupils are selected on ability, not gender Cricketers of note (Nottinghamshire & Kent, right) What sets the school apart County junior cricket is played on the Main Oval. In Year 6 cricketers can train in any of the following groups: Established

Club/county a liation Some boys represent Berkshire, Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. The school also hosts matches for Oxford High School (GDST) teams. Boys also play for local clubs including Oxford CC, Horspath CC and Wolvercote CC Best prospect U11As are a very strong group who won all their games this season. Their captain, Charlie Snow, captains Gloucestershire U11s and is an allrounder with great potential Brief history Cricket, along with Classics and Chapel, was long considered one of the three great pillars of the school. The game has been played since the 1870s with fixtures against schools such as

Teams Finest moment on the field in several matches at once – very enjoyable all three fields in

Finest moment on Every pupil from Years 3 to 6 has represented the school in several matches throughout the summer term. Stamford regularly have every pupil from each year group playing at once – very enjoyable to watch all three fields in

Recent progress The e orts from pupils and sta to get cricket back up and running after the last couple of years. To have every single pupil play regular cricket throughout the summer term and also have access to after-school clubs and extra cricket sessions

Future plans New nets to be installed in the astro cage. Potential to bring in new six-a-side formats for hardball and create mini festivals with music

Cothill and The Dragon that remain today. Historically Horris Hill was the big rival. The 1914 scorecard making interesting reading: GO Allen lbw b DR Jardine 2 Cricketers of note Gubby Allen (Middlesex, England, MCC president), John Barclay (Sussex, MCC president), Mark Faber (Sussex, Oxford University)

Cultural cricketers Harold Macmillan (future British PM). The 2012 Fathers XI had a ringer for their annual match against the Sta . The late, great, SK Warne took 6 for 53. Opening the batting in 2018 was Azhar Ali, whose century guided the Fathers to their first victory in the annual fixture for some years.

Reginald Brooks was, along with his brother, one of the first two boys to attend Summer Fields in 1864. In later life he wrote the spoof obituary in the Sporting Times announcing the death of English cricket at The Oval in 1882 What sets the school apart The VPU Finest moment on the field One of the few prep schools to play MCC. In 2014, to celebrate the school’s 150th anniversary, a Headmaster’s XI led by former West Indies captain Jimmy Adams enjoyed a seven-wicket victory

Recent progress Increased the number of matches for the U7 and U8 teams, and they have been played on the 1st XI square

Future plans The school are running six-a-side cricket matches at the lower levels of Years 4 and 5, allowing boys to play twice as many matches Tours Just before Covid the school toured Cape Town, playing nine matches in nine days and creating long-lasting memories. They hope to tour again in the near future. This year the Under 11s toured Edinburgh and the Scottish borders

Joey Evison

TAUNTON PREP SCHOOL

Staplegrove Road, Taunton, Somerset TA2 6AE

Established 1847 Number of pupils 340 Master in charge Peter Sanderson (director of cricket) Professional Marcus Trescothick (Somerset & England). Taunton School helped the current England assistant coach become an ECB Level 4 coach Teams 34, now with matches from Year 3, and the major summer sport for girls. Boys: Years 8 and 7ABCD,

TERRINGTON HALL PREP SCHOOL

Terrington, York, Yorkshire YO60 6PR

Established 1921

Number of pupils 178 Master in charge Alex Crockett

Years 6/5ABC, plus two teams in Year 4 and 3. Girls: Year 8ABC, Year 7ABCD, Year 6ABC, Year 5/4/3AB Girls’ cricket Split into high performance, which helped produce Storm Academy player Joleigh Roberts, and fun cricket. Girls can choose to join the boys cricket programme Post-pandemic changes Numbers have increased. September cricket has been discussed Fixtures Millfield Prep, King’s Hall, Hazlegrove, Clifton and Sherborne Prep. A frustration is other schools cannot match the number of teams Taunton put out. The highlight is

the Parents v 1st XI match, though the boys are not always happy when Trescothick helps out the parents Facilities 12 grass net pitches, which split into 4 bays, 15 artificial nets including the 7 indoor lanes. The main hall can be used for hardball indoor games. The school has 6 main squares but also play on extra ‘rabbit’ pitches, used mainly for softball matches. Access to 3 bowling machines including a Merlyn spin machine Club/county a liation Many schools, clubs and Somerset CCC Best prospect Lily Blackwell, Jack Blackwell, Harvey Coleman, Luca Gregory

Brief history International and county players have been produced. One of the best-known, Tom Abell, is a regular visitor. In 2016 Taunton made the decision to appoint a director of cricket, Peter Sanderson (Level 4 coach/ex-Somerset coach) Cricketers of note Abell (Somerset), Adam Dibble (Somerset), Jodie Dibble (Somerset, Western Storm & England Women), Aftab Habib (Essex, Leicestershire, Middlesex & England), John Jameson

(Warwickshire & England), John Cameron (West Indies), Alan Gibson (Oxford University), Jack White (Somerset & England)

Cultural cricketers Geo rey Cox (Conservative MP), Alan Gibson (cricket writer) and Jeremy Wright (former attorney-general)

What sets the school apart Last summer the biggest issue was accommodating all players with 70 boys originally listed to attend senior cricket sessions. The mix of sta across both schools is almost unique. The use of the same facilities regardless of level is important. The continued link to Somerset is cherished

Finest moment on the field Year 8s are National IAPS winners and reached the national semi-final. The girls also won their county cup and competed at IAPS final

Recent progress The fixture programme has improved again. The numbers of county pathway players has increased to 70

Future plans Outdoor facilities being upgraded to increase the numbers of grass and artificial nets

Tours London tour in the planning

(head of sport)

Teams Boys U13, U12, U11, U10, U9, U8. Girls U13, U11, U9 Girls’ cricket Girls have outright sides but also play alongside boys. There is a 50/50 fixture split between rounders and cricket as the school feels the fielding and striking skills complement each other

Fixtures 1 or 2 fixtures every week. Most notable fixtures are Aysgarth and St Peter’s, York Facilities Four outdoor and two indoor nets. Currently two wickets (an U9/U10 square and an U11/U13 square). They have found that a large new astro lends itself perfectly for younger or softball fixtures and training. Two bowling machines and plenty of spare equipment for the pupils to use. A pavilion and scorebox alongside the firstteam square Club/county a liation Westow CC and Malton CC, where most players play outside of school.

Past and present players represent North Yorkshire and Yorkshire. A liated coaches help with private

and team sessions. District sides are a regular in the calendar of fixtures every year

Best prospect Olivia Breese (wicketkeeper/batter). Currently included in Yorkshire U13 Girls. Hit 50 not out while playing her first game for our U13 boys side v Durham Cathedral School

Cricketers of note Becky Glen (Scotland Women), Jack Charters (Fiji)

What sets the school apart The ground, set within the Howardian Hill (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty). The layered pitches give an infinity look about the ground Finest moment on the field Winning Dri eld Floodlit League U12, winning the Yorkshire round of the ESCA U11 eight-a-side hardball competition

Recent progress Introducing girls’ cricket and three of the players representing Yorkshire Future plans Looking at portable floodlights for some night fixtures and adding a cricket tour to the calendar

THE NEW BEACON

Brittains Lane, Sevenoaks, Kent TN13 2PB

Established 1900 Number of pupils 349 Master in charge Ian BuchananDunlop Teams 6 – U12/13s, 4 U11s, 4 U9s Girls’ cricket A boys’-only school but in discussion with a local girls’ school with the aim of their girls coached/ playing at The New Beacon Post-pandemic changes An excellent routine throughout the pandemic introduced a lot of new ideas in the approach to teaching cricket, for example using soft balls to be more inclusive

Fixtures 140-150 fixtures across all age groups, includes county competition and 6-a-side tournaments

Facilities 4 all-weather nets, sports hall, 1 grass wicket and 3 all-weather wickets Club/county a liation Kent CCC, Holmesdale CC, Sevenoaks Vine CC Best prospect One of the boys is

Master in charge Ian BuchananDunlop

currently Kent U13 captain and another in the same team.

Another boy plays in Kent U12s

Brief history

A long, strong tradition of cricket at The New Beacon. U13 teams have regularly qualified at local level to proceed to national competition

Cricketers of note Sam Billings and Zak Crawley (Kent & England) What sets the school apart Won the Kent U11 Cup for 15 years over the 20 years. The New Beacon have won

the U12s cup several times v U13s (out of age group)

Finest moment on the field National winners

Recent progress Watching Billings and Crawley play in the same Ashes Test at Hobart in 2021/22

Future plans The New Beacon already work with local schools and hope to keep that going. Always trying to find new ways to make cricket exciting for the boys. Working with a local girls’ school for mixed cricket and for them to use school facilities

Boys’ Prep 3–13 years

WESTBROOK HAY PREP SCHOOL

London Road, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP1 2RF

Established 1892

Number of pupils 352 Master in charge Stuart Stedman (head of sport), Peter Makower, John James Teams 3 U13s, 8 U11 Boys, 5 U11 Girls, 8 U9 Boys, 4 U9 Girls, 2 U8 Girls, plus mixed cricket Girls’ cricket The girls play both with the boys and in their own girls’ sides Post-pandemic changes The school returned with a focus on skill development but tried to do this through gameplay. The children missed most of last summer so the school ran a skills catch-up programme Fixtures The number of fixtures varies per team, with senior sides playing up to 10 matches. The most notable fixture is the local derby against Lockers Park Facilities 2 grass hardball pitches, 1 astro wicket, 5 junior wickets and three astro nets all outside. Two

WOODCOTE HOUSE SCHOOL

Snows Ride, Windlesham, Surrey GU20 6PF

Established 1854

Number of pupils 110

Master in charge Andrew Monk (deputy headmaster)

Professional Josh Dodd (Border), Ed Young (Surrey, Gloucestershire) Teams U13ABC, U11AB, U9 Girls’ cricket All-boys’ school

Fixtures 25. The game against Sunningdale is known locally as ‘El Clasico’

Facilities 4 grounds with all-grass squares, 4 artificial nets, use of Eversley Indoor Centre in winter Club/county a liation Close links with Valley End CC, providing pitches for girls’ cricket. The school also help with their overseas pro’s accommodation

Best prospect Seb C is currently averaging 50 from his two years in the 1st XI. Jasper T and George S are two Year 7 boys with huge potential. Jasper is a seam bowler leading the

indoor nets, a batting cage on the main square and a bowling machine Club/county a liation Craig Ringsell, groundsman for Chesham United FC and Leverstock Green CC, has taken over the maintenance of the wickets, which has produced great results. John Neal, ECB head of coach development, is a former teacher here and he runs an annual clinic for both sta and senior sides Best prospect Year 8 Charlie Brett, a stylish allrounder, has just been signed up to the Northants Academy.

Maddison Wade and Matilda Hamilton are quick bowlers in the U10As, while in the equivalent boys’ team Nikhil Dodhia bowls leg-spin and is destructive with the bat Brief history The school is set in a wonderful environment, with two picturesque grounds. There is a dedicated sta who believe cricket should be available for all and every pupil represents the school in matches. They pride themselves on producing high quality cricketers, who play the game in the right spirit. Pupils

are regularly part of representative squads. Girls are treading a similar path now and recently won the Aldenham Festival

Cricketers of note Alex Hales (Nottinghamshire & England)

Cultural cricketers Luke O’Nien (Sunderland AFC), Raef Bjayou (entrepreneur and TV presenter), Deji Olatunji (YouTuber with over 10m subscribers)

What sets the school apart Cricket is played every day during the summer term with the indoor and outdoor facilities always in use. The school prides itself on producing high quality cricketers and have a ‘Cricket for All’ policy

Finest moment on the field Winning the U11 County Cup in 2012, 2014 and 2015

Recent progress The development of the girls’ programme along with improvement in the squares Future plans This summer the school have initiated a link up with Berkhamsted CC where they o er lodgings to the overseas player in return for time spent coaching the pupils

stand of 246 in 16 overs against Bishopsgate in 2001. Former Black Rod Edward Jones also graced the school cricket pitches

What sets the school apart Possibly the first prep school to have called o a match via Twitter. It was in the very early days of the social media platform and the game was against Elstree

attack already. George is a leg-spinner and batsman who works with the Rajasthan Royals academy

oldest boys-only prep school in the country and has played cricket since 1854. The iconic Front Field ground with the Georgian house as the backdrop makes it one of the most picturesque prep school grounds in the world

Cricketers of note Luc Durandt (Durham MCCU), Sam Andrews was o ered a contract by Surrey

Cultural cricketers Former ‘Diet Coke man’ Oliver Tilney once scored 109 not out in a record first-wicket

Finest moment on the field The school’s opening stand of 246 against Bishopsgate must be among the highest in the history of prep school cricket. Durandt’s 164 not out against Hoebridge is a school record that is unlikely to be beaten due to the proliferation of T20 cricket since then Recent progress The role played in helping Valley End CC improve the Christmas Chari-Tree initiative. Working alongside local state schools and businesses, £7,000 was raised and 300 presents donated to help more than 50 families enjoy a better Christmas. This led to helping the club with overseas pro Josh Dodd Future plans Further partnerships with Valley End to secure improved facilities

Brief history Woodcote House is the

Creating better athletes for life “Excellent” ISI

At Feltonfleet we are proud to be a Surrey Cricket Development and Performance Centre. With 25 acres of grounds and pitches including an astroturf, indoor pool and climbing wall, we coach 33 teams of all abilities across 23 sports, from nursery upwards. Visit our beautiful day and flexi-boarding school, where boys and girls aged 3-13 thrive on personalised learning.

To find out more contact Jackie Williams on 01932 862 264 at admissions@feltonfleet.co.uk or visit www.feltonfleet.co.uk Means-tested bursaries available

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HIGHLY COMMENDED

The following schools entered a submission to The Cricketer Schools Guide 2022 but unfortunately just missed out on the top 100, top 50 or top 20. However, their cricket programme has been highly commended and we look forward to hearing of their progress in the future.

HIGHLY COMMENDED SENIOR SCHOOLS

Abingdon School

AKS Lytham

Aldenham School

Ampleforth College

Barnard Castle School

Bloxham School

Blundell’s School

Chislehurst & Sidcup Grammar School

City of London Freemen’s School

Downside School

Dr Challoner’s Grammar School

Fulneck School

Giggleswick School

Gosfield School

Gresham’s School

King Edward’s School, Witley King’s College School Wimbledon King’s School, Chester

Kingston Grammar School

Langley Park School for Boys

Latymer Upper School

Leicester Grammar School

Loughborough Grammar School

Monk’s Walk School

Monkton Combe School

Mount Kelly

Pocklington School

Portsmouth Grammar School

Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Wakefield

Queen Elizabeth School, Barnet

Ratcli e College

Reading School

Rossall School

Royal Grammar School, Guildford

Royal Grammar School, Newcastle

Sevenoaks School

Sherborne School

Shiplake College

St Benedict’s School, Ealing

St Paul’s School

The Cathedral School Llanda

The King’s School in Macclesfield

The King’s School, Worcester

The Oratory School

The Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe

Wellingborough School

Wells Cathedral School

Woodbridge School Wycli e College Wymondham College

ALL-GIRLS SCHOOLS

Cheltenham Ladies College

Edgbaston High School for Girls

Godolphin School

James Allan’s Girls’ School

Lady Eleanor Holles School

St Swithun’s School

PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

Beeston Hall

Blundell’s Prep

Brambletye School

Chorister School

Cranmore School

Fairfield Prep

Gosfield Prep

King’s Hall School, Taunton

Moulsford Prep

Orwell Park School

Papplewick School

St Neot’s Prep School

Sunningdale School

The Elms School

Wellesley House School

West Hill Park School

Westbourne House Prep Windlesham House School

COBHAM SURREY KT11 1DR

Top 100 senior schools

23 Ashford School 24 Bede’s School 26 Bedford School 28 Berkhamsted School 28 Bishop’s Stortford College 29 Bradfield College 29 Brentwood School 30 Brighton Aldridge Community Academy 32 Brighton College 34 Bromsgrove School 34 Caterham School 35 Charterhouse 35 Cheadle Hulme School 36 Cheltenham College 36 Clayesmore School 37 Clifton College 37 Cranleigh School 38 Dollar Academy 38 Dulwich College 39 Dunottar School 39 Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation 40 Eastbourne College 40 Elizabeth College, Guernsey 41 Ellesmere College 41 Emanuel School 42 Epsom College 42 Eton College 43 Felsted School 43 Framlingham College 44 George Watson’s College 44 Haberdashers’ Boys’ School 45 Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools 45 Haileybury 46 Hampton School 46 Harrow School 47 Huddersfield New College 48 Hurstpierpoint College 50 Kimbolton School 50 King Edward VI School, Southampton 51 King Edward’s School, Birmingham 51 King’s College, Taunton 52 Lancing College

54 Lord Wandsworth College 54 Magdalen College School 55 Malvern College 55 Marlborough College 56 Merchant Taylors’ School, Northwood 58 Millfield School 59 New Hall School 61 Newcastle-under-Lyme School 61 Northampton School for Boys 62 Oakham School 62 Oundle School 63 Queen Mary’s Grammar School, Walsall 63 Radley College 64 Reed’s School 64 Reigate Grammar School 65 Repton School 67 Rugby School 68 Scarborough College 70 Seaford College 72 Sedbergh School 72 Shenfield High School 74 Shrewsbury School 76 Simon Langton Grammar School 76 Solihull School 77 South Dartmoor Community College 77 St Edward’s School, Oxford 78 St George’s College, Weybridge 80 St John’s School, Leatherhead 82 St Lawrence College 84 St Peter’s, York 13-18 84 Stamford School 85 Stowe School 85 Taunton School 86 The Bishop’s Stortford High School 86 The Canterbury Academy 87 The John Lyon School 89 The Judd School 90 The Leys 92 The Manchester Grammar School 92 The Perse School 93 The Royal Hospital School, Ipswich 93 The Skinners’ School 94 Ti n School

94 Tonbridge School 96 Trent College 98 Uppingham School 100 Watford Grammar School for Boys 100 Wellington College 101 Wellington School 102 Whitgift School 104 William Perkin C of E High School 104 Wilson’s School 105 Winchester College 105 Woodhouse Grove School 106 Worksop College 106 Worth School 107 Wrekin College 107 Yorkshire Cricket College

Top 20 all-girls schools

110 Benenden School 110 Channing School 111 Denmark Road High School for Girls, Gloucester 111 Didcot Girls’ School 112 Downe House School 112 Guildford High School 113 Headington School, Oxford 113 Loughborough High School 114 Mayfield School 116 Notting Hill & Ealing High School 116 Putney High School 117 Queenswood School 117 Roedean School 118 Sherborne Girls 120 St Catherine’s, Bramley 120 St Helen & St Katharine 121 Stamford High School 121 The Godolphin & Latymer School 122 The Mary Erskine School 122 Wimbledon High School

Top 50 prep/junior schools

124 Abingdon Prep 124 Aldro 125 Aysgarth School 125 Beaudesert Park School 126 Bede’s Prep

126 Bedford Preparatory School

127 Berkhamsted Prep

127 Bishop’s Stortford College Prep

128 Brentwood Preparatory

130 Brighton College Nursery, Pre-Prep & Prep School

132 Caldicott School

132 Cargilfield School

133 Cheam School

133 Clayesmore Prep

134 Clifton College Prep

134 Cothill House

135 Cottesmore School

135 Cranleigh Preparatory School

136 Cumnor House, Sussex

136 Dorset House

137 Dragon School, Oxford 137 Eagle House

138 Elstree School

138 Felsted Prep School

139 Feltonfleet School

139 Gresham’s Prep School

140 Heathfield Junior School

140 Highfield & Brookham Schools

141 Holmewood House

141 Hurstpierpoint College Prep School

142 Lockers Park

142 Ludgrove School

143 Merchant Taylors’ Prep School

143 Millfield Prep School

144 Nottingham Academy Primary 144 Packwood Haugh

145 Prestfelde Prep School

145 Repton Prep School

146 Rokeby School

146 Shrewsbury House

147 Spratton Hall

148 St Andrew’s Prep, Eastbourne

148 St Faith’s School

149 Stamford Junior School

149 Summer Fields

150 Taunton Prep

150 Terrington Hall

151 The New Beacon

152 Westbrook Hay

152 Woodcote House School

Inclusion in the guide: every year we invite schools across the country to submit their entries. Having collated the entries the judging panel scrutinises the schools against a number of criteria including facilities, fixture programmes and coaching set-up to determine which should be included in the top 100 senior schools, top 20 all-girls schools and top 50 prep and junior schools. We can, of course, only include the schools who submit an entry – so if you believe your school is worthy of consideration please do make sure you submit via www.thecricketer.com/schoolsguide or by emailing us at magazine@thecricketer.com

Completed projects by Durant Cricket

Durant Cricket install a wide range of products across the UK. Some of our work in schools includes:

Uppingham School

Delivery of two mobile cages with extra 10m section, puncture-proof tyres & heavy-duty 3mm netting

Oundle School

Delivery 4½m x 4m wide sight screens with galvanised frame & replaceable lattes for white-ball game

Oakham School

Supplied three mobile cricket covers with puncture-proof tyres & side sheet attachment to connect to flat sheets

Millfield School

Fitting five-lane net system, different pitch types, fixed roofs & retractable wings. Plus perimeter net, 4G fielding area & black curtain for white ball

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2023

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