The Cricketer Schools Guide 2026

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2026 FEATURING THE TOP 100 SENIOR, TOP 25 STATE, TOP 20 ALL-GIRLS AND TOP 50 JUNIOR & PREP SCHOOLS

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SCHOOLS GUIDE 2026 CON T EN T S 6 School reports 2025 8 TCS100 at Desert Springs 10 Durant 12 Lord’s Taverners 14 Apex tournament 16 Ruth Strauss Foundation 17 Katchet 19 MR Cricket Hockey 21 NV Play 22 Smile travel 23 Top 100 senior schools 118 Top 25 state schools 133 Top 20 all-girls schools 146 Top 50 junior/prep schools 176 Highly commended 178 Index STAFF Editor Huw Turbervill Managing director Jim Hindson Deputy editor James Coyne Art director Geoff Barton Chief correspondent George Dobell Reviews editor Richard Hobson Digital editor Nick Howson Social media editor Owen Riley Features Writer Nick Friend Staff reporter Oscar Ress Marketing manager David Sharman Business development manager Rohan Kulkarni Subscriptions executive Gemma Neagu Sales and marketing apprentice Emily Till 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, coaching set-up and commitment to cricket in the curriculum - to determine which should be included in the top 100 senior schools, top 25 state 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

TO SUBSCRIBE or for any subscription enquiries call 0203 198 1359

Competition fierce as British schools scene shines “How do we get into your schools guide?”

It is a question I get asked fairly regularly as I travel around Great Britain.

Quite simply, the competition is intense. And given that the current England men’s regime appears to place value on precocious talent rather than year-on-year county success, it’s a good thing that it is. Take Jacob Bethell, who only left Rugby School three years ago but has now captained England in white-ball cricket.

Alex Green is another example. The seam bowler was playing for Stamford School this summer and went on to become the joint second-highest wicket-taker in the One Day Cup, with 18 for Leicestershire at an impressive 20 runs apiece.

In the women’s game, 18-year-old seamer Grace Thompson of Durham School shone this summer and was called up for England A, picking up two wickets in an ODI against New Zealand at Derby.

Schools cricket is as important now as it ever has been. Arguably more, when you consider the number of schools that also assist in hosting county cricket.

I visited Cheltenham College this year to watch Gloucestershire take on Middlesex (Kane Williamson included) in the County Championship, and there were other county fixtures at Repton, Sedbergh, Merchant Taylors’ Northwood and Rugby.

The schools circuit remains hugely competitive, but there is also the wonder of taking part, the camaraderie of being in a team, in the fresh air, learning this wonderful game of ours. 2005 Ashes hero Geraint Jones, at St Lawrence College, Kent, was big on this. Several schools boast quite rightly about their whole year group taking the field on the same afternoon.

This feels like a pivotal time for schools cricket, with a spotlight being shone through new tournaments like the state school Knight-Stokes Cup, the finals of which will take place at Lord’s. if we can build on this momentum, the future of our junior cricketers will be even rosier.

HUW TURBERVILL Editor @huwzat

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Supporters of The Cricketer Schools Guide Congratulations to all the schools featured in this guide – now in its 11th year celebrating the nation’s best cricketing schools. As a leading supplier of cricket ground equipment to clubs, professional counties, and schools, we are proud to support The Cricketer’s ongoing excellent coverage of school cricket. This showcases

the incredible contributions of coaches and staff to helping young people enjoy the game we all love. Wishing you all a fantastic winter and the best of luck for the upcoming 2026 season!

Cristian Durant Managing director, Durant Cricket

On the cover: Oundle vs Uppingham (main pic), Merchant Taylors’ Northwood vs Brighton Grammar (bottom left), and Latymer Upper vs London Oratory (bottom right) all by Paul Carroll; Loughborough High School (bottom middle) by Darren Staples

thecricketer.com | 3

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SCHOOLS GUIDE 2026

County stars of the future shine for their schools

The Cricketer’s reporters travelled across the country to cast their eye over the best young talent during the 2025 season. By David Sharman ABOVE Alex Green appearing in the One Day Cup for Leicestershire TOP RIGHT Rugby girls’ 1st XI at Lord’s; the pavilion at King’s College School Wimbledon when they met Ibstock Place School

6 | thecricketer.com

T

he link between schools and county cricket has arguably never been closer, with the One Day Cup now providing both more opportunities for young players to break into counties’ first teams – and bringing about a revival of schools being used as outgrounds too.

Among the schoolboys to play professionally this year was Alex Green, of Stamford School, who starred for Leicestershire in the tournament and claimed 18 wickets – a tally only surpassed

by Ben Allison of eventual winners Worcestershire.

“If he stays fit, he could potentially play for England,” Stamford head of cricket, Josh Weller, told The Cricketer.

“Anyone that bowls 86 or 87mph has always got a chance of playing for England.”

Meanwhile, schools to play host to men’s county cricket during the tournament included Repton School, who hosted their first Derbyshire game since 1988.

“It’s a great spectacle and there’s a buzz about the school,” Repton

director of cricket Martin Speight told our reporter David Sharman during the game against Worcestershire.

“If you want to inspire kids and promote the game, well, show me somewhere better than this to do it.”

But it was another One Day Cup host venue, Rugby School, who claimed a famous double at Lord’s this year when they were crowned National Schools Cup champions at under-18 level after their Girls’ 1st XI defeated Barton Peveril Sixth Form College in a 100-balls-a-side game.

The boys, who play in a T20 tournament, then defeated Clifton College later in the day.

Anu Surenkumar starred in the girls’ final, scoring 51 not out to lead her side to 129 for 4. The Warwickshire youth player then took 4 for 16, including a hat-trick, and completed a run out as Barton Peveril were bowled out for 98.

For Barton Peveril, a state school in Eastleigh, Hampshire, Spain international Naomi Hillman-Bermejo (2 for 20) was the pick of the bowlers, while Eve O’Neill (24) top-scored in the reply.

Having given their schoolmates a guard of honour back to the pavilion, Rugby’s boys then secured their own triumph after restricting Clifton to 132 for 9. Jack Pidgeon, another Warwickshire prospect, claimed 4 for 16 with his left-arm orthodox spin, while Clifton No.9 Rhys Baker hit 34 not out.

Scotland youth international Rory Grant starred in the successful chase, hitting 65 not out off 43 balls. Jonty Taylor took 2 for 26 for Clifton.

Former Warwickshire captain Michael Powell, director of cricket at Rugby, said: “Everybody plans for the season ahead but not in my wildest dreams did I think the boys’ and girls’ 1st XIs would be playing at Lord’s on the same day.

“The whole thing was just a special experience and it was a really proud day for us as a school.”

Rugby also held their first ever girls’ two-day fixture this summer, with Northamptonshire’s Under-18 side providing the opposition.

An innings victory for Rugby was spearheaded by Essex youth prospect Amelie Bishop, who hit 109, while 14-year-old wicketkeeper Poppy Ward fell just shy of a century.

Florrie McKenna recorded a five-wicket haul during Northants’ second innings, finishing with match figures of 8 for 35, while left-arm spinner Niamh RobertsonJack, a dual youth international for Scotland in cricket and rugby union, took three wickets in the match.

Across the West Midlands at Shrewsbury School, a new generation is emerging from the “Class of 2024”.

Last year’s Shrewsbury 1st XI included the likes of Jack Home and Theo Wylie, now pursuing professional careers with Worcestershire and Warwickshire respectively, along with a number of other talented cricketers who won the National T20 Cup before leaving school.

“We’ve had to almost sign a disclaimer to say we won’t hark back to the ‘Class of 2024’,” said Shrewsbury’s cricket professional, Adam Shantry, formerly a pro himself with Northamptonshire, Warwickshire and Glamorgan.

“It’s a topic of discussion because it’s not fair on the current incumbents, but we do have some really good standards to look to aspire to.

“It’s very much a year of change and we’re fielding a lot of younger players.

“It’s a great opportunity this year for the boys to play a lot of first team cricket.”

Players emerging to form the spine of Shrewsbury’s new-look 1st XI in 2025 included county and international age-

ROUND-UP

group players including Hugh Allwood, Arjan Barard, Louis Hursthouse and Harry Parton (all Worcestershire), Liam Grindlay (Worcestershire and Lancashire), and Freddie Ogilby (Ireland Under-19, Glamorgan and Worcestershire).

It’s also been a good year for the state school sector in producing professional talent.

Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys, in Canterbury, celebrated when Ollie Curtiss made his professional debut for Kent during the summer.

Simon Langton and The Canterbury Academy have joined forces with Kent for a scheme which has seen the county’s players coach their pupils as part of a bid to uncover new talent in the state sector.

“It’s a stepping stone that can open doors to professional opportunities in the future,” said Simon Langton director of cricket, Jack Gooding.

The strength of Kent’s state school scene hasn’t gone unnoticed in the county’s independent institutions either, leading former England wicketkeeper Geraint Jones to increase the number of fixtures his teams at St Lawrence College, in Ramsgate, played against local grammar schools in 2025.

Further north, Chester-le-Street’s Park View School only launched its cricket programme in 2020 but has already produced the likes of Mitchell Killeen, Ben McKinney, Luke Robinson and Laura Trotter, now all forging careers with Durham’s senior men’s and women’s squads.

Seamer Jack Brassell, who moved to the North-East of England in the hope of pursuing a county career (his father hails from Northumberland),

became Park View’s first full international when he debuted for Namibia last year.

Left-arm quicks Matthew Robinson (Luke’s younger brother) and Brett Hutchinson are among the school’s current generation tipped for big things, along with allrounder Owen Harwood.

Injury cruelly denied the younger Robinson the chance to play in an inaugural MCC State Schools XI v MCC fixture at Bristol, having been chosen from a pool of almost 700 players, while his team also finished runners-up to South Gloucestershire and Stroud College in the Association of Colleges T20 Cup, open nationally to sixth form and further education colleges.

In 2026, Park View will focus on the Stokes-Knight Cup, the new national tournament for state schools beginning in 2026 and culminating in a finals day at Lord’s.

“I hope it really moves the dial for state school cricket,” said Park View director of cricket, Ash Thorpe.

“Anything that can raise the profile with the carrot of a final at Lord’s is something that people can get invested in. It’s something we’ll take really seriously.”

Surrey’s Weydon School, who count

Graham Thorpe and current Surrey women’s player Dani Gregory among their alumni, are also looking forward to the Stokes-Knight Cup. “For cricket, that will be amazing in terms of new opportunities and pushing people on to great things following in the footsteps of Dani Gregory, or even going on to represent their country like Graham Thorpe did,” said Weydon’s head of cricket, Nathan Edwards.

In the same county, Heathfield Junior School claimed the Under-11 Surrey Star Burst title.

St George’s College needed 14 runs to win off the last over and Yasha Bahn took two wickets, both clean bowled, to secure Heathfield’s victory.

“This is a remarkable achievement for a state primary school, with over 40% free school meals and pupil premium children,” said James Watson, PE lead at Heathfield.

National title winners included King’s College, Taunton, who won the English Schools Cricket Association Under-15 T20 Cup for the second time in three years.

King’s took the title, which they last won in 2023, after overcoming Epsom College and Shrewsbury on finals day at Arundel.

Scarborough College also made the last four.

Hugo Bush starred for the winners, scoring half-centuries and three wickets in each of his side’s games, while captain Theo Lamey also hit 62 in the final.

Elsewhere, editor Huw Turbervill, took in “what must be one of the loveliest pavilions on the schools’ circuit” when King’s College School Wimbledon met near-neighbours Ibstock Place School, from Roehampton.

However, rain thwarted his hopes of watching Surrey prospect Adam Fox, the most prolific schoolboy in the country during 2024, with 1,294 runs.

One of Scotland’s most historic cricket fixtures, the Edinburgh clash between Loretto School and Fettes College, also celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2025.

“It’s changed a lot in those 150 years,” said Loretto’s head of cricket, David Hinchcliffe.

“They used to wear shorts and use their school ties as belts in those early days.

Now, it’s coloured clothing and pink balls.” thecricketer.com | 7

Rain in Spain denied by love of the game Unexpected Mediterranean weather was no match for the enthusiasm of young players at The Cricketer Schools 100, report David Sharman and Owen Riley

The Cricketer Schools 100 tournament took place against a backdrop of the deserts and mountains of Andalusia, in Spain. Three squads – Kingswood School, Park View Academy of Sport and St Paul’s School – all headed out to Desert Springs Resort over the 2025 Easter holidays with the aim of playing at least five games each in this temperate climate.

The weather, however, had other ideas, with a planned double round-robin league stage, followed by a subsequent eliminator and final, having to be truncated after the middle two of the four days were washed out.

In the end, St Paul’s, who had finished third out of six in the 2024 tournament, triumphed after going unbeaten across the three games they managed to play.

But, perhaps, a greater triumph was in the spirit of a desire by the three sides to make the most of unfortunate circumstances in which they found themselves when days two and three of the competition were ruled out.

Initially, the competition had got off to a flying start with the first day’s two scheduled matches going ahead 8 | thecricketer.com

as planned and, in the morning, County Durham’s Park View blew away Bath school Kingswood in the tournament’s bow.

Park View are among the top current state schools when it comes to producing professional cricketers. County players including Mitchell Killeen, Ben McKinney and Luke Robinson have already emerged from a programme launched only five years ago.

Led by Ash Thorpe, who himself played for Durham in 2002 and 2003, the school’s operations are based at Chesterle-Street and numerous players play in county age-group sides.

Among them is another Robinson, Matthew, an imposing left-arm quick who got the tournament off to a devasting start against Kingswood, taking 4 for 3 from his allotted 20 balls. Freddie Stappard provided the stiffest resistance, scoring 21 from 28 balls as the batting side reached 67 for 9 from their 100 balls.

Robinson was joined in the wickets by his captain

ABOVE St Paul’s School took the honours at Desert Springs BELOW Kingswood School’s openers head out to bat

Ethan Connolly and Harry Kirtley, who both took 1 for 10, and Jacob Jordan (1 for 13).

In pursuit of a modest target of 68, Park View negotiated proceedings serenely, securing victory with 17 balls and eight wickets to spare.

Under overcast skies, Alex Birbeck marshalled the chase with a steady 29 off 39, while Connolly (7), Ross Abdy (11), and Liam Cook (9 not out) all chipped in to get their side over the line with relative ease in a maturely-managed pursuit.

Kingswood’s second game of the day, against London school St Paul’s, followed a similar tale, with a standout all-round performance by skipper Nikhil Malik for the latter proving the difference.

Having taken a caught and bowled earlier in the day, Malik’s quickfire 25 off 13 balls, including one four and two sixes, got his side off to a flier in the chase.

Providing support were Tamash Raaj (14 not out off 19), and Amar Ali (14 not out off 21), as St Paul’s reached their target with 49 balls in hand. For Kingswood, Stappard (26) was again the pick of the batters as his side reached 68 for 7 in the first innings.

Fergus de Mestre (2 for 8), a left-arm spinner on Surrey’s books, and Rohan de Silva (2 for 10) each took a brace for St Paul’s, while Yash Dhasmana claimed 1 for 7 from his three-over spell.

The result set up a mouthwatering clash between the two undefeated schools as the planned first game of the second day, before the miserable rain’s intervention postponed that fixture by a full 48 hours.

The extended break had allowed tension to build between the two sides, who were both keen to lock horns by the time blue skies allowed them to take to the field.

Having won the toss, Park View elected to bowl first and made early inroads when Robinson claimed the prized wicket of the attacking Malik (4), sparking wild celebrations for the fielding side.

Jordan then removed Amar Ali for 13 to leave the score at 24 for 2, but a 63-run partnership between Tamash Raaj (30 off 37) and Seb Jones (44 off 32) handed St Paul’s control.

Opener Raaj played a steady hand, while Jones showed intent from the off, hitting his fifth ball for six and striking back-to-back fours down the ground in the following over.

Robinson stood out again for Kingswood, taking 3 for 6, with 17 dot balls from his 20 in another excellent display.

Defending a strong total of

OWEN RILEY

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2026

104, St Paul’s bowled skillfully to restrict Park View to 67 for 7 and complete a 37-run win.

Dhasmana removed Freddie Collins (4) and Abdy (1) early on, and finished with figures of 2 for 4 from his two overs.

Yajur Prasad claimed the wickets of Connolly (9) and Robinson (1), on his way to figures of 2 for 8, while de Silva, Theo Katzenellenbogen and Sai Bhatia all took a wicket apiece.

With one round of the league stage now complete, Kingswood and Park View once again faced off in the Spanish sunshine.

The former were looking to forge a way into the tournament after two losses in the opening round, and Stappard once again led the charge to ensure they broke their duck in the competition in emphatic style.

A stunning knock from the Somerset age group player earned Kingswood their first win of the tournament in a truncated game, where Park View took the noble and possibly unprecedented

ABOVE The Park View and Kingswood squads

step in the 100-ball format of making a sporting declaration after 74 balls, when they had retreated to the pavilion during another dreaded, albeit thankfully brief, rain break.

Chasing 109 from 74, Stappard’s sensational assault – smashing 84 off 44, with 4 fours and 8 sixes – led Kingswood to victory by eight wickets, with four balls to spare.

For Park View, Abdy had made a rapid 31 off 14 balls, while Robinson, promoted to open, scored 18 off 10 with some clean but controlled hitting. Liam Cook chipped in with 22 to help his side make 108 for 6 from those 74 deliveries, when Thorpe declared the innings in a bid to try and help move the day along, when two further games were scheduled against both weather and light closing in.

Kingswood’s bowling unit shared the load, with six different bowlers – Toby Eayres, Harry Bates, Toby Knight, Owen Brown, Hector Howard and Mathijs In Der Reiden – picking up a single wicket.

Captain Eayres was the most economical on the day, bowling 11 dots in his 15 and finishing with figures of 1 for 8.

From there, it was the Stappard show, with the opener, whose brother Tom was also part of the Kingswood side, clearing the ropes with regularity, including backto-back sixes twice in the innings.

At the other end, Stappard’s opening partner, Sam Dunmow (16 off 22), had the best seat in the house.

Kingswood were back on again straight away when they fielded first in their second match against St Paul’s, for whom Jones led the way, striking a 16-ball 33, hitting six boundaries, with two of those clearing the rope.

Krishan Sornalingam added 28 from 34, and Bhatia 17, as St Paul’s posted 116 for 6.

In reply, Kingswood started well, with the Stappard brothers sharing an opening stand of 41.

However, 14 balls later both were gone, with Kingswood slipping from 41 for 0, to 50 for 3.

Golf fanatic de Mestre, who had

enjoyed Rory McIlroy’s dramatic Masters triumph the previous evening, picked up the key wicket of Freddie Stappard, trapping the opener lbw for 28.

Eayres (16) and Dunmow (10) kept the chase just about alive, but St Paul’s continued to chip away at the wickets and, when rain arrived with 93 balls gone, Kingswood were 89 for 7. Coach Euan Gordon decided to concede the game when it was clear further play on the day was out of the question.

Given it was not possible to complete two full rounds of fixtures or a finals day, a gentlemen’s agreement reached before day four began meant St Paul’s were crowned champions, owing to their place at the top of the league following the first round of games. Coached by Alex Langley and former Leicestershire captain Nigel Briers, their undefeated record for the duration made them worthy winners.

Credit is due to the coaches of the three schools, whose enterprising spirit kept alive what could have been a tournament that faded out, as well as the three captains.

Kingswood’s Eayres led by example to bring his team back into the tournament after their disastrous start and Park View’s Connolly showed a mature head beyond his years in leading his side, while Malik, of St Paul’s, deservedly received the winner’s banner on his team’s behalf after marshalling his unbeaten side.

Umpire Hugo Wymer also led the way with his high standard of officiating, building a good rapport with all teams and ensuring what had been a challenging few days drew to a satisfactory conclusion.

Matches at the The Cricketer Schools 100 tournament were streamed using NV Play equipment. Find out what NV Play can do for your club or school at NVPlay.com | enquiries@nvplay.com In April 2026, The Cricketer Schools 100 will be held in the UK for the first time.

To find out more, please contact jim.hindson@thecricketer.com

thecricketer.com | 9

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2026

Merchant Taylors’ - Duraweave

St Edmund’s School Canterbury - A-Base

Headingley - Duraflex

How Durant Sports are shaping the future of cricket facilities. Trusted by schools. Backed by the ECB. From design to installation, Durant Sports provide ECB-approved indoor and outdoor cricket systems that enhance player development, increase facility performance and give schools and clubs a reliable, future-proof cricket environment Outdoors - A-Base

A-Base is Durant’s specialist outdoor non-turf pitch system, officially ECB-approved as of 12 November 2024.

Designed for outdoor use across schools, clubs, practice areas, match pitches and multi-use games areas (MUGAs), A-Base provides a high-performance, durable surface with excellent drainage and year-round reliability.

With its ECB approval, A-Base delivers on both performance and credibility. Its engineered construction gives realistic bounce and movement while offering the reliability of synthetic non-turf - no 10 | thecricketer.com

worries about mud, wear, or weatherwrecked grass. For outdoor cricket facilities seeking high performance, flexible usage and long-term value, this system is a strong choice.

Key Benefits • ECB-approved system for outdoor cricket use.

• Survey feedback showed that 100% of respondents rated ball bounce as either ‘normal’ or ‘very consistent’, with 92% reporting realistic ball movement and 98% rating overall performance as excellent.

• Excellent drainage capability

via porous aggregate base + prefabricated underpad — allows play even in wetter weather.

• Highly durable tufted surface (Durant-CW) designed for intensive use and long life.

• Suitable for practice nets, full match pitches, schools, clubs, and MUGAs — offering flexibility.

Specs & Installation • Top surface: Durant-CW tufted surface installed over the underpad.

• Underpad: Prefabricated underpad laid over the aggregate base to provide support and performance.

• Base preparation: Two layers of porous aggregate, screeded and levelled, for a stable foundation.

• Drainage and play-readiness: Designed to provide quick drainage to keep surface playable and safe in outdoor conditions.

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

The result is realistic ball bounce, excellent safety through shock-absorption, and full suitability for high-performance indoor cricket facilities.

With its ECB approval and engineering that matches the demands of indoor cricket, DuraWeave stands out as a top-tier surface. The tweakable weave for spin or seam training means you can tailor the playing environment to your coaching objectives. The shockpad helps protect athletes and installations alike — reducing risk and extending life. As both manufacturer and installer, Durant provide a full turnkey solution, delivering the engineering quality and support expected of a professional facility.

Merchant Taylors’ - Duraweave

Indoors - DuraWeave

DuraWeave is Durant’s ECB-approved synthetic indoor system, approved by the ECB on 17 December 2024.

It combines a Wilton-woven carpet playing surface with our GeoPad shockpad system, installed over a properly prepared concrete base.

South Northumberland CC - Duraflex

Indoors - DuraFlex

DuraFlex is Durant’s unique indoor vinyl cricket system, and the only one of its kind to hold official ECB approval.

Unlike all other vinyl systems, DuraFlex meets ball bounce requirements

Key Benefits • ECB-approved performance for indoor cricket.

• Realistic ball bounce thanks to the woven carpet top + GeoPad shockpad.

• Customised weave variations: can be tuned to favour spin or seam play.

• High durability, designed for intensive training use.

• Superior athlete safety: shockpad beneath surface absorbs impact and helps reduce injury risk.

without the need for additional layers, and supports multi-sport use — making it an excellent choice for halls with multiple activities.

If your facility needs to host cricket training but also accommodate other sports and activities, DuraFlex gives you both performance and versatility. The ECB approval ensures that for cricket the bounce and behaviour are up to scratch, while the vinyl construction and multisport credentials make it a more flexible investment. Installation is streamlined - and because Durant manage sub-floor prep and the full process, you get a full solution rather than just the product.

Key Benefits • ECB-approved indoor cricket surface (under the “Mint Green” approved colour).

• Meets meaningful performance criteria without needing extra

• Adaptable for indoor cricket centres, schools, academies, and refurbishment projects.

Specs & Installation • Playing surface: 12 mm Wilton-woven carpet.

• Shockpad: GeoPad system underneath; 6 mm shockpads installed at both batting and bowling ends (as standard) for bowling/batting zones.

• Standard width: 3.65 m roll width; custom lengths to suit your space.

• The system must be installed over a prepared concrete base.

• Bespoke installations possible for length, width, and options such as “Natural” DuraWeave (2.74m width) for specialised use.

Balbriggan CC – ‘Natural’ Duraweave

roll-down layers — more efficient installation and use.

• Over 45% force reduction (shock absorption) for enhanced comfort and safety.

• Multi-sport adaptable: supports court markings, color customisation and varied uses beyond cricket.

• Full site-visit, subfloor prep and turnkey installation offered for optimal results.

Specs & Installation • Surface: high-performance vinyl sports flooring.

• Ball bounce standard aligned with ECB indoor cricket guidelines.

• Supports custom line markings and colour finishes (beyond the standard “Mint Green” colour if required).

• Installation includes sub-floor preparation, full installation service, and visit/quote stage.

Durant Sports provide a complete turnkey solution for club and school facilities.

For more information, visit www.durantsports.co.uk or call 01572 822013 thecricketer.com | 11

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2026

CHARITY FEATURE

Positively impact young people through cricket by supporting the Lord’s Taverners charity

C

ricket’s power to unite, educate and inspire is woven into the fabric of our schools. It builds character, fosters teamwork, and teaches resilience – qualities that go far beyond just playing the game. For the Lord’s Taverners charity, these same values lie at the heart of their mission: to empower young people living with a disability and from disadvantaged communities to reach their potential through cricket.

As cricket-focused schools, you’re not only shaping the next

generation of players but also the next generation of leaders, coaches and community role models. Partnering with the Lord’s Taverners offers a unique opportunity to use your school’s cricketing excellence to help others access the game – and in doing so, deepen your own pupils’ sense of purpose and connection to the wider cricketing family.

Here’s how your school, your players and your community can get involved and make a genuine difference.

Host and support inclusive cricket programmes The Lord’s Taverners run several innovative, nationwide programmes that open the doors of cricket to every young person – regardless of background or ability: Wicketz – A community cricket programme bringing the game to young people living in disadvantaged communities.

Wicketz goes beyond coaching: it teaches teamwork, respect, and resilience, using cricket as a tool for personal and social development.

Super 1s – Designed for young people aged 12–25 living with a disability, Super 1s provides regular coaching and competition, building confidence, friendships and life skills through cricket.

Cricket in SEND Schools – One of the charity’s fastest-growing initiatives, bringing inclusive coaching, equipment and training directly to special educational needs and disability (SEND) 12 | thecricketer.com

schools. Sessions are adapted to ensure participants get the chance to engage in the most appropriate form of cricket (softball or table cricket) and raise awareness of their nearest Super 1s hub to encourage participation in the game outside of their school setting.

Your school could make a significant impact by offering your facilities for one of these programmes, hosting a Wicketz or Super 1s festival, or becoming a hub location. By opening your grounds to more inclusive cricket, you extend the spirit of the game well beyond your own community.

Fettes College, Repton and Millfield School have all hosted Wicketz programme activity in recent years and reaped the rewards.

You could also offer support to help the Lord’s Taverners achieve its wider outcomes through their programmes.

For example, could someone connected with the school run a life skills workshop at a nearby project?

Fundraise through cricket and creativity Fundraising for the Lord’s Taverners doesn’t need to be complicated – and it can easily be woven into your cricketing calendar. Schools have hosted imaginative events that combine competition with community spirit, including: • Charity fixtures between staff and pupils, alumni teams, or parents, with proceeds supporting the charity.

• House tournaments or cricket festivals where entry fees and sponsorship go directly to the Lord’s Taverners.

• 24-hour nets challenges, bat-athons or marathon matches that capture attention and encourage participation across the school.

• Sports dinners or auctions featuring donated memorabilia or guest speakers, with a percentage of funds supporting the charity’s programmes.

Every pound raised helps deliver coaching and inclusive cricket opportunities to thousands of young people. And every fundraising event builds awareness, empathy and pride within your own school community.

We have cricket programme activity taking place in every English county, Scotland and Wales. We can clearly showcase and demonstrate the impact your funding or potential partnership has in your local area, via stats and case studies.

Build a long-term partnership Many leading schools are choosing to formalise their relationship with the Lord’s Taverners through ongoing partnerships. You could: • Host an annual Lord’s Taverners inclusive cricket festival or a regional Table Cricket competition.

• Invite a Lord’s Taverners speaker or ambassador to address

assemblies or prize days.

• Engage alumni and parents through charity lunches, golf days or sponsorship opportunities in support of the Lord’s Taverners.

A long-term collaboration allows your school to make a sustained impact while enriching its cricketing identity and outreach portfolio.

Showcase your impact Schools that partner with the Lord’s Taverners find that the benefits go both ways. Pupils gain leadership and volunteering experience, staff connect with a powerful national network, and the school’s name becomes associated with tangible social impact.

Empower pupil leadership and volunteering Partnership with the Lord’s Taverners also creates exciting opportunities for student leadership and personal development. Pupils can: • Serve as Lord’s Taverners ambassadors, leading school events, fundraising drives or inclusion initiatives.

• Volunteer at local Super 1s or Wicketz sessions, assisting coaches and supporting programme participants.

• Engaging with Lord’s Taverners cricket programme hubs is an incredible opportunity for pupils to learn about the challenges some young people face, different communities and the importance of inclusive behaviours and environments in wider society.

These experiences strengthen key skills – teamwork, communication, empathy and initiative – while grounding cricket in the values that make it more than just a game.

Publicising your involvement through your website, social media, newsletters or open days not only inspires others to contribute but also demonstrates your school’s commitment to the values of inclusion, generosity and community leadership that cricket embodies.

A CALL TO ACTION

The Lord’s Taverners’ vision is clear: a future where every young person – regardless of background or ability – has the opportunity to fulfil their potential through cricket. If you’re reading this, you’re brilliantly placed to help make that vision a reality.

By opening your doors, sharing your expertise, and using your influence, you can help give every young person facing the challenges of inequality the opportunity to play cricket and enjoy all its personal development benefits.

To explore partnership opportunities, or to get involved with fundraising, hosting or volunteering, visit www.lordstaverners.org or email the charity via contact@lordstaverners.org.

Together, we can ensure cricket continues to change lives – one game, one school, and one young person at a time.

thecricketer.com | 13

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2026

Youngsters reach the Apex at Millfield Teams from around the globe play T20, learn about the game and life, and form friendships

C

ricket festivals have become a booming business, but this one was tailor made by a young duo who have been called inspirational.

Ed Clews and Max Rusling, both 22, had strong views about what makes a good festival or tour. Clews went on one to Dubai, and although he’d had fun with mates playing cricket in the sun, it was expensive and did not prepare his school for the season ahead. They played two T20s – both mismatches.

Rusling, meanwhile, felt that while schools talked a lot about career development and mental health, they didn’t offer a great deal of substance.

Thus, the Apex Festival was born. Taking place in late June/early July at Millfield School in Somerset with its superb facilities, it combined T20 action involving eight boys and eight girls’ under-15 teams, plus mentorship, inspirational speaking and elite coaching. As well as UK sides, there were others from South Africa, Namibia and Guernsey. The Adams/ Lal Academy (India) and Desert Vipers (UAE) are joining next year.

Scarborough College won the boys’, beating Best Academy from Durban in the final, while a composite side from the Somerset area called South

14 | thecricketer.com

West Superchargers beat GDST (Girls’ Day School Trust) from London. In attendance for all three days were Apex ambassadors Sir Andrew Strauss and Ebony Rainford‑Brent, while Millfield head of cricket Mark Garaway, quicks Steffan and Simon Jones, and wicketkeeper Paul Nixon also took coaching. Then, off the field, the first female SAS helicopter pilot, Sarah Furness, gave the youngsters a talk about dealing with pressure.

“We recognised that most of the youngsters who go on tours and festivals won’t go on to become first-class cricketers, so we wanted to give them career development,” said Clews. “I went through the Worcestershire pathway, then played for Bromsgrove. Youngsters like me are sold a dream, only to be let go after putting in so many relentless hours through summer and winter. I’d sacrificed my GCSEs and A-Levels to an extent, although I did OK – but I had no idea what I was going to do with my life. I was also lucky enough to go on a tour to Dubai. It was fun, but it cost my parents £3,000, and the two games were one-sided. And while we met kids from different cultures and backgrounds, there was no mechanism to stay in touch. So, I reflected on it. We have

worked hard to ensure our competition provides balanced matches. Each game was streamed live. English batters bat differently to Indian, the same with keepers, and so on, so we all learned from each other. And everyone signed up to an app that allows them to stay in touch, featuring profiles, top scores, favourite players and so on.”

Next year the festival returns to Millfield, then in 2027 it will be at St Peter’s School, York, with Australian teams coming over for the Ashes.

“It was so energising to see all those kids just loving playing and learning about the game,” said Strauss. “Well played to all the crew of the Apex Cricket Festival.”

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Responding in the moment – schools programme By the Ruth Strauss Foundation The Schools Programme: Responding in the Moment is a free, expertdesigned and evidence-based training programme that helps schools support children and young people through anticipatory grief and bereavement. Each year, 46,300 children and young people face parental bereavement in the UK. The Ruth Strauss Foundation supports families facing incurable cancer and raises awareness of the wider impact incurable illness can have on children, families and schools.

Responding in the Moment takes a structured, proactive approach, giving every adult in a school – from the caretaker to the headteacher – the skills and practical strategies to respond with confidence in emotional moments. You never know which adult a child or young person will turn to for support, so we aim to

equip the whole school community to be ready when it matters most.

To complement the Schools Programme, the Foundation has also developed the RSF Minecraft Education World: Detect & Diagnose.

For ages 8–14, this interactive game helps children understand cancer and its diagnosis in a safe, engaging and age-appropriate way.

Co-designed with children with lived experience, NHS oncology experts, child bereavement researchers and specialists, the game builds empathy, resilience and emotional skills.

Together, Responding in the Moment training and the RSF Minecraft Education World: Detect & Diagnose resource support schools to create compassionate, whole-school approach so no child feels isolated when facing a parent’s incurable illness. www.ruthstraussfoundation.com/ schools

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

How Australia’s 2005 Ashes squad helped to launch a global coaching sensation Former Scotland international Colin Smith celebrates two decades in business by recalling how Katchet caught on

T

he summer of 2005 will live long in the memory for cricket fans who experienced the amazing Ashes series between England and Australia.

But the Australian tourists also played their part in launching a coaching phenomenon in that same year.

That season, Scotland international Colin Smith was worried about whether his investment in a new product he had launched, based on a prototype built in his father’s garage, would take off.

That product was Katchet, the catching aid now endorsed around the world by international stars and newcomers to cricket alike.

Colin and his international teammate Neil MacRae had been nervous about taking the product to market, but were given confidence when using it at the ICC Intercontinental Cup in Dubai by former England Test player Bob Woolmer, who was working at the tournament in his role as the governing body’s high-performance manager.

Woolmer recalled to Smith how his former colleague, Kent and England wicketkeeper Alan Knott, would use an upturned bath mat as a catching aid to enhance his skills behind the stumps.

“It gave me the confidence that the principle for this kind of product was there, so we invested and got it made,” says Smith.

“We were in a lot of debt and a bit scared about whether it would work and were trying to sell it out the back of the car.”

Despite these early fears, Smith was able to get the word around about Katchet while playing for Scotland in National League games against English counties that summer.

The big breakthrough, though, came when Australia visited Edinburgh for a washed-out tour game.

Despite the lack of play, Australian coach John Buchanan was enthused by seeing the Katchet in action.

“He loved it straight away and could see the benefits of it,” remembers Smith.

“He bought 10 straight off the bat and was an advocate for us for the next 10 years.

“From there, it just grew and grew.

When the ECB adopted it for England coaching in 2008, it really kicked on.

“We got that immediate kudos and endorsement, which made it a lot easier for parents, kids and coaches to see it and accept it.

“It’s a product that has benefits for everyone, even for small kids starting out with a softball, because it teaches hand-eye coordination, foot movement, deflection reaction and so on.

“But then you use a hardball and it becomes challenging even for the best in the world.

“With all of our products, we’ve tried to come in with that top-down approach to help professionals, but which is still something that will benefit everyone at any level of ability.”

Other products brought to market by Katchet since include the Fusion Multi-Stump, which helps bowlers and keepers alike, and the RapidArm+ ball throwing device.

The RapidArm Ezy is set to be brought out this summer, which aims to provide the same quality as its sister model with a soft cup providing greater ease of use for those who have slower arm speeds, such as parents and children.

A new model of the Katchet aid is also in the offing.

WIN! The ultimate cricket practice bundle from Katchet Want to win the ultimate practice bundle to help you improve your performance?

Thanks to Katchet, we’re offering one lucky reader the chance to win a bonanza of equipment from their range.

The winner will receive a Katchet Multi-Stump set, RapidArm+, KoachSak one2one, BallSak and Skyer 2.0.

As a bonus, a ‘wildcard’ piece of equipment from Katchet’s range will also be included!

Scan the QR code to enter now or visit thecricketer.com/competitions.html This philosophy of helping all cricketers to enjoy the game more drives Smith forwards, as Katchet celebrates 20 years in business.

Recalling those early days, Smith concludes: “I was bricking it because I wasn’t going to be able to pay my credit card bill, but once things always looked in the right direction I always wanted to make more products and not just be a one-trick pony.

“We’re a small company run by cricketers for cricketers. “We understand the game and what it takes as a coach and player to succeed and importantly enjoy yourself.

“Our whole ethos is making life easier, improving coaches, coaching and ultimately the players.

“And I can only thank everyone who has bought into that for the last 20 years and perhaps will continue to use our products for the next 20 years.” thecricketer.com | 17

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

MR Cricket Hockey are on a mission to help school and club coaches bring cricket to all Whether top players or complete beginners, the East Anglian firm’s dedication to service and curation helps their customers solve all of their kit problems – whatever they may be.

L

et’s face it, cricket is a sport that requires a lot of equipment.

For teachers and coaches alike, this can lead to all sorts of problems when it comes to ensuring everyone from first-teamers to newcomers has the gear they need to enjoy our great sport.

Thankfully, MR Cricket Hockey have made it their mission to ensure that cricket squads – and individual players – get the products that are right for them.

And, as experts in equipment curation, they’re not afraid to put in the hard yards on behalf of coaches in order to achieve that.

While MR Cricket Hockey’s clients include county sides like Cambridgeshire and Norfolk, the firm are keen to give the same devotion to all the schools and cricket clubs they supply.

“We’ve got lots of different schools and clubs who we have relationships with for their equipment needs,” says director Merrick Fuller.

“We’re all about wanting to save coaches time, so we’re happy to do the research and procurement when it comes to making sure they get what they need.

“We source from lots of different suppliers to get the best prices and the right products for them.

“Doing that legwork and doing the right deals for them is our way of giving back.”

With girls’ cricket participation expanding in

schools and the sportswear industry adapting as a result, Merrick is committed to ensuring his stock is always up to date.

“Women’s and girls’ cricket is booming, particularly in independent schools, and there’s a real mix of both soft and hardball cricket played,” he says.

“We’re able to source the right products suitable for ladies cricket, good quality, light weight English willow bats at a cheaper prices for younger cricketers and those playing the game for the first time.

“The ECB are very keen on increasing participation and we want to help with that mission by supplying team kitbags, which remove the barrier of expensive equipment for individuals.”

Players and parents from non-cricketing backgrounds can also find the one-stop shop they need at MR Cricket Hockey’s headquarters near Cambridge.

“Independent schools have a lot of overseas students who have never been exposed to cricket before,” adds Merrick.

“They take up cricket and enjoy it, but the parents and pupils need that extra bit of advice on the equipment they are playing with.

“That’s where we can offer expert advice and make sure they get the right equipment, as well as giving them help regarding the care of their kit that you can’t get very easily online.”

You can win a £1,000 kit bundle to help replenish your side’s kitbag for winter training and the new season, courtesy of MR Cricket Hockey.

Enter the competition now via the QR code or visit thecricketer.com/ competitions.html

thecricketer.com | 19

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PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Stream school cricket like the pros with 50% off your first year of NV Play With NV Play’s game-changing live streaming and scoring software, school cricket has never been streamed like this.

NV Play brings elite-level coverage to school cricket. Eliminating matchday hassles, and delivering broadcast-quality live streaming in just a few clicks.

NV Play gives you: • Beautiful production-quality graphics • Instant ball-by-ball overlays • In-depth analytics – like batting and bowling wagon wheels • A richer, more interactive and engaging streaming experience • YouTube and Facebook streaming • Seamless scoreboard integration It also easily integrates with Play-Cricket Scorer Pro (PCS Pro). That’s the same system trusted by first-class counties and England’s international teams.

The future is permanent No more lugging cameras and tripods to the pitch.

Schools across the UK are saving the hassle, and setting up scoreboxes, sightscreens and pavilions with permanent camera installs instead. With our range of premium fixed camera set-ups, NV Play makes going permanent easy.

What schools are saying Will Hughes (Shrewsbury School) “We have been delighted with both the service and performance advantage following our adoption of NV Play. Players benefit from watching the game in real time while they wait to bat, as well as using highlights packages and replays to analyse performance.”

Scott Boswell (Trent College) “PCS Pro has transformed how we analyse and develop players. Now, with a permanent camera setup, streaming is instant—no fuss, it’s ready to go.”

James Knott (Stowe School) “NV Play have revolutionised the way we deliver cricket at Stowe. 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.”

Simon Jackson (Whitgift School) “Parents and alumni worldwide tune in every match. It’s been a game-changer for engagement.”

50% OFF THE SOFTWARE. £275 OFF THE HARDWARE. Start streaming like the pros, with this exclusive discount on NV Play’s live streaming software and hardware. Get yours by January 30 2026, and you’ll get: • 50% off the first year of your 3-year Live-Streaming plan* • £275 off NV Play’s Elite camera kits • Free PCS Pro training for your staff Don’t miss out. Stream, analyse, and engage with NV Play. And level-up your school’s cricket game today.

Offer ends January 30, 2026. *T&Cs apply.

For more info email enquiries@nvplay.com www.nvplay.com

thecricketer.com | 21

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2026

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Travel with a smile Phil Lewis, Director of Sport at King’s Taunton, explains why they use Smile Travel to organise their school’s cricket tours

O

rganising a sports tour is no tick-box exercise, it’s about creating experiences that inspire athletes, build confidence, and strengthen teams.

Smile Group Travel specialise in delivering high-quality tours for schools and clubs, taking care of every detail so staff can focus on players and players can focus on their sport.

With a reputation for professionalism, smooth logistics, and real value, Smile has become a trusted partner for schools and clubs across multiple sports.

Their tours not only develop athletes on the field but also foster resilience, independence, and lasting friendships off it.

Phil Lewis, Director of Sport at King’s Taunton, reflects on the role of tours in his cricket programme and why Smile has been his school’s go-to partner for more than a decade.

Why are tours important to your cricket programme?

Tours are a vital part of our programme as they allow players to compete in new environments,

test themselves against strong opposition, and experience different playing conditions.

Beyond the cricket, tours build team cohesion, develop leadership, and create shared experiences that strengthen our culture.

They also replicate the demands of elite sport - travel, preparation, and performance - which is invaluable for player development, especially for those with professional ambitions.

Most importantly, tours create friendships and unity. In fact, we recently won a national title after a tour, underlining just how effective the preparation can be.

How do sports tours benefit the players?

Tours accelerate both personal and sporting growth. Players learn to adapt quickly, build resilience, and take ownership of their performance.

Being away from familiar surroundings encourages independence, accountability, and teamwork. On the field, they face varied tactics and playing styles; off the field, they gain cultural experiences and form lasting friendships. These moments often have a lasting impact on their sporting journeys.

How long have you worked with Smile?

We’ve worked with Smile for around 12–13 years.

Tom Webley (one of my closest cricketing and school friends) and I were both Directors of Cricket searching for new touring venues.

We joined a reccy trip with Smile to Sri Lanka, booked a tour the following year, and haven’t looked back.

Since then, we’ve toured Sri Lanka, La Manga, Barbados, France, and South Africa across cricket, netball, hockey, and rugby… with exciting plans still ahead.

This October we’re heading to Portugal for a golf tour, followed by a senior cricket tour to South Africa. In October 2026, we also have a girls’ netball and cricket tour planned for Barbados.

Over the years, Smile have been a trusted partner, consistently delivering high-quality, wellorganised tours that align with our sporting vision.

What makes you select Smile for your tours?

Smile stand out for their professionalism, attention to detail, and understanding of sports teams’ needs.

They combine excellent facilities with smooth logistics, allowing us to focus on the players and their performance.

We can always rely on them for exceptional service, clear communication, and a genuine partnership approach.

Accommodation, transport, and fixtures are always well thought through, and we feel we get real value for money without corners being cut.

smilegrouptravel.com • info@smilegrouptravel.com 22 | thecricketer.com

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS ABINGDON SCHOOL Park Rd, Abingdon OX14 1DE Established 1256 Number of pupils 1050 boys Director of cricket James Golding Professional Rupert Evans (Oxfordshire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABCD, U14ABCD, 13ABC, U12AB, Staff XI Fixtures There are between 160 and 180 matches over the school year. Competitive fixture card includes Radley College, Magdalen College School, Cheltenham College, Winchester College, Bradfield College, Stowe School, Berkhamsted School and Warwick School. They also host MCC and a strong Old Abingdonians side. The 1st XI competes in the National T20 Cup and Gale Festival alongside Brentwood, St John’s Leatherhead and Oundle. The U17s play in the Cricket Paper National School’s Cup Facilities Five indoor nets, eight grass wicket nets on the main square, a six lane outdoor cricket centre and can host 10 fixtures on the grounds and two artificial pitches

Club/county affiliation Oxfordshire CCC, Sussex CCC. School hosts Oxfordshire CCC at age group and 1st XI level. Abingdon also stages Kwik Cricket Festivals for boys and girls and two-day Prep School Cricket Festival Best prospect Jack Veal has been the 1st XI captain for the last two years Cricketers of note Michael Hill, Edward Ede, George Ede (all Hampshire ), Ben Gannon (Gloucestershire, Middlesex), Nathaniel Watkins (Oxfordshire) Brief history Cricket has always been played at Abingdon School and remains one of the major summer

sports. Originally occupying just the picturesque, but small pitch at the front of school, the sport expanded enormously under the headship of Sir James Cobban,. He instructed the purchase of War Memorial Field, opposite the school, where cricket is now based with exceptional training and playing facilities. The original ‘Upper Field’ remains in full use by junior sides and the occasional staff fixture!

Cultural cricketers Phil Selway, Ed O’Brien, Thom Yorke, Colin Greenwood, Jonny Greenwood (all Radiohead), Tom Hollander, Toby Jones, David Mitchell (actors),

Matthew Harding (businessperson), Sir Kim Darroch KCMG, Sir Nicholas Kay KCMG (British diplomat), Francis Maude (politician), Graham Scott (football referee) Finest moment on the field Become U15 T20 Champions, having reached the final in 2010. School hosted the Oxfordshire 1st XI for the first ever time and the first time in Abingdon since 1975 Future plans In September 2026, Abingdon School will become a coed school with cricket being one of the major sports for girls; joining the school in a very exciting time Tours Sri Lanka (2026, 2027) thecricketer.com | 23

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

AKS LYTHAM

AKS LYTHAM Clifton Dr S, Lytham FY8 1DT Established 1896 Number of pupils 800 Director of cricket Liam Castellas Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB, U11AB, U10AB, U9; Girls: 1st XI, U17, U15, U14, U13, U12, U11AB, U10, U9; Headmaster’s XI, Oaks XI, Staff XI Fixtures Approximately 150 matches per season. MCC, Cheadle Hulme School, Lancaster Royal Grammar School, King’s Chester, Bolton School and night match at Queen Ethelbergas among opponents and competitions include National U17s Cup, National T20 Tournament, Wyre & Fylde Area Cup, Lancashire Cup Hardball and Softball Festivals. 1st XI plays in an end-of-season festival against King’s Chester, Stockport Grammar School

MEET THE DIRECTOR OF CRICKET

and Newcastle Under Lyme School Facilities Two grass pitches adjacent to each other, two Flicx pitches, two indoor sports halls with Uni-Turf flooring – one with five indoor lanes the other with two, four outdoor astro lanes, three BOLA bowling machines, sightscreens, electronic scoreboard and historic pavilion built over a century ago which houses a functioning café Club/county affiliation Lancashire CCC, St Annes CC, Lytham CC. Strong partnerships with local schools. Also host ‘Lancashire Way’ programme run by Lancashire

Cricket Foundation and are an MCC Foundation Hub Best prospect Allrounder Rory Urquhart represents Lancashire CAG and academy Cricketers of note Tom Graveney (England, Gloucestershire CCC, Worcestershire CCC, Queensland), Richard Halsall (Sussex CCC), Taylor Cornall (Lancashire CCC, Worcestershire CCC) Brief history Cricket has been an integral part of school life since inception in 1896 – the historic school buildings blend around two adjacent cricket pitches, a unique facility which has played host to many festivals and tournaments. AKS has been a strength of school cricket for many

the boundary of the AKS community and within our wider region.”

AKS Lytham have developed This outward focus also a cricket programme rooted creates clear pathways for in passion for the game and a pupils to join local clubs strong sense of community. and continue their journey As Liam Castellas, the in the game. “We want our school’s Director of Cricket, students to become the next explains, AKS offers “a generation of players, leaders, structured programme that coaches and administrators, builds a player’s technical Liam Castellas Director of cricket doing our part to grow and tactical skills.” the game.”

Regional connection sits at That love for cricket begins early. “From the heart of the school’s ethos. Through close our Prep School upwards, we take pride in partnerships with Lancashire Cricket and the igniting that passion. Some go on to achieve MCC, AKS plays a leading role in strengthening representative or professional honours, others the game across the Fylde Coast. Lancashire become stalwarts of their clubs — we’re equally have incorporated the school’s flagship proud of every lifelong participant whose CPD sessions into their own development journey began here.” programme, while the launch of an MCC While AKS runs an Enhanced Performance Foundation Hub at AKS demonstrates what he Programme for its most talented players, describes as “a desire to grow cricket beyond

years, with a strong involvement in the local cricket community, helping the game to thrive in the North West. With recent investment in the latest equipment and facilities combined with restorations to the historic pavilion, AKS blends a rich and unique cricket history with a programme seeking to develop cricketers for years to come Cultural cricketers Dr Frank Carter Duckworth MBE (DL method creator), Jimmy Armfield (football), Michael Smith (Nobel Prize winner), Sir William Lyons (Jaguar founder) Finest moment on the field Top of the table finish in the Senior Cricket Festival 2025 What has changed in the last 10 years? Emergence of girls cricket and development of coaches and increased community involvement Future plans Summer camps and community engagement programmes Tours United Arab Emirates (2027)

inclusivity remains central. Every pupil, regardless of experience or ability, benefits from expert coaching, structured training and regular fixtures — creating an environment where all can develop, enjoy their cricket and reach their potential.

AKS Lytham takes particular pride in the flourishing girls’ cricket programme, which continues to grow in strength and success. With access to outstanding facilities and coaching, AKS girls have impressed at both regional and county level. Participation continues to rise across all age groups, reflecting the school’s inclusive ethos and its commitment to developing talented, confident female cricketers.

That enthusiasm runs through every level of the programme. “The first thing on the agenda in Prep School is to ignite their passion for cricket. How fast can you bowl? How hard can you hit? Can you outthink the opposition?

We love the game as staff, and over time our passion becomes our students’ passion. Our programme builds that year on year.”

www.akslytham.com • admissions@akslytham.com • 01253 784101 24 | thecricketer.com

admissions@akslytham.com

Senior School

01253 784104

Prep School

www.akslytham.com

High Performance coaching.

Uni-Turf indoor training facilities.

Stunning coastal cricket grounds.

Established coaching links with Lancashire.

Regularly host County Programmes.

Routinely host the MCC, National T20 Cup and touring teams.

Players progressing on Interleague and County age group pathways.

45% A Level grades at A*/A and 65% at A*/B. 48% GCSE grades at 9-7.

CRICKET ET ET

WHY AKS?

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

ARDINGLY COLLEGE

College Rd, Ardingly, Haywards Heath RH17 6SQ Established 1858 Number of pupils 1000 Head of cricket Charlie Forbes Professionals Sharne Mayers (Zimbabwe), Jordan Rollings (Sussex, Middlesex)

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABCDE, U12AB, U11ABC, U10AB, U9AB; Girls: U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U11ABC, U10, U9AB Fixtures MCC and Sussex Martlets are the standout matches among 200 fixtures across the season Facilities Three grass wickets, one astro strip, brand new eight lane, astro net facility, five lane indoor nets, four grass practice wickets and one astro Club/county affiliation The Sports Development Centre caters to a wide range of abilities for children

ARDINGLY COLLEGE

from 2-11 years.

Masterclass clinics are offered for students and the local community.

In conjunction with Sussex Foundation & Mid Sussex Active regular group coaching sessions are hosted. Regular hosting of U10 & U13 soft & hardball tournaments for girls & boys, both indoor and outdoor. Also have relationships with Cuckfield CC, Boland-Lambou High School Best prospect Enzo Packham Scamardella is a standout U13 boys wicketkeeper-batter who is part of the Sussex CCC U13 squad. Emily Groves is an outstanding cricketer representing 1st XI as well as Sussex U16 and Ansty Women’s 1st XI Cricketers of note Alfred Shaw (England, Nottinghamshire, Sussex), Tom Clark (Sussex CCC), Abidine Sakande (Sussex CCC, Leicestershire CCC), Ben Brown (Sussex CCC, Hampshire CCC), George Brann (England, Sussex CCC)

completed construction on a new, eight-lane, outdoor net facility.

Cricket at Ardingly has “never “I’m proud of all of been stronger”, according to our programme at the the school’s head of cricket, moment,” said Forbes.

Charlie Forbes.

“We’re striking a good Based in West Sussex, balance of engagement recent progress has been and performance.” multifaceted, with the Three of the girls on development of the girls’ Ardingly’s programme have programme – now in its third Charlie Forbes Head of cricket progressed into academy year – culminating in the cricket with Sussex and formation of a 1st XI for the Southern Vipers, which is the regional pathway first time, for the season ahead. that feeds into Hampshire’s professional setup.

“We had an outstanding season for both the He describes one of them, Emily Grove, as “a boys and the girls last year, which was great tremendous role model for the girls. to see,” said Forbes. “There are loads of really “I’ve got a couple of girls that two years ago exciting young talent coming through from the had never played any cricket and now are prep school all the way up to our sixth form. playing club cricket. We’ve got a couple of “So, the progress we’ve made in a short period our overseas boarders who are exploring club of time has been really exciting. We’re really just options as well. So, there’s definitely a growing trying to get out as far as we can.” appetite, but also a really nice growing culture That led to involvement in the Festival of of cricket for the girls especially.”

Cricket at Canford, while the school have just

Cultural cricketers Lord Sheffield, Ian Hislop (journalist) What has changed in the last 10 years? Introduction of a dedicated Girls’ Cricket Performance Pathway, which has significantly increased participation in performance and recreational cricket. To support growth, staff are upskilled and staff numbers increased to bring more expertise and coaching capacity to the school. An exchange program with Paarl High School in South Africa is being created Future plans An expansion of cricket provision by introducing a new tiered performance pathway structure across both the senior and prep schools. This initiative aims to offer the appropriate level of yearround coaching to boys and girls throughout the school, ensuring that students receive tailored support to develop their skills effectively.

This runs in conjunction with the development centre for external children. All sessions are run by head of cricket Charlie Forbes, level four cricket coach Jordan Rollings and Sussex CCC pathway coach Chris Etherington. From September 2025, the Young Leaders programme is offered to students Tours Cape Town (2026)

Their improvement, he says, has also come from Ardingly’s size, with the benefit of being a small school borne out in increased contact time with students. “It means that I’m able to have a lot more detailed or closer-run sessions. So, instead of having 15 to 20 in a group, I might have five or six on a regular basis.

“We’ve got some great coaches as well.

There’s myself and then there’s Jordan Rollings, who’s our head of performance cricket. From January, I’ll have Sharne Mayers, she’s a Zimbabwe international and she is the overseas pro at Cuckfield. So, she jumps in with the girls from January as well.”

Forbes and his coaching staff also run an annual masterclass session for “about 60 to 70 children that come from all over the local area”, consisting of two hours’ coaching, followed by a barbecue.

“It’s something that I can’t see us ever stopping. And it’s been great for us as a group to be able to offer that and continue to take it forward.”

www.ardingly.com • email: admissions@ardingly.com 26 | thecricketer.com

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

BEDE’S SCHOOL

BEDE’S SCHOOL

Cricket World Cup on multiple occasions, leading to representing the A team.

Upper Dicker, Hailsham Beyond her international BN27 3QH duties, NaiJanni also played for the Barbados Royals Established 1979 in the Caribbean Premier Number of pupils 780 Neil Lenham League Director of cricket Director of cricket Cricketers of note Alice Neil Lenham Capsey (England, Surrey, Professionals Neil Lenham, Oval Invincibles, Delhi Capitals, Kash Ibrahim, Petch PyemontMelbourne Stars, Freya Kemp Lenham (all Sussex) (England, Sussex, Southern Brave), Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, Ryana MacDonald-Gay (England, U17, U15AB, U14AB. Girls: U18, U17, Surrey, Oval Invincibles), Mary Taylor U15, U14 (Hampshire, Southern Brave), Shai Fixtures Of the 120 matches, the Hope (West Indies), Luke Wells most notable are against Eton, MCC, (Lancashire, Sussex), Fynn HudsonNational and in County Cups Prentice (Sussex, Derbyshire), Ali Facilities Four grass pitches, eight Orr (Hampshire, Sussex), Delray outdoor and six indoor nets Rawlins (Bermuda, Sussex), Henry Club/county affiliation Sussex Crocombe, Archie Lenham, Dan CCC, Kent CCC, Surrey CCC, Ibrahim (all Sussex), Ollie Rayner Hampshire CCC. Prep School is (Sussex, Middlesex), Callum Jackson based in Eastbourne (Kent, Sussex, England U19) Best prospect NaiJanni Brief history Archie Lenham’s Cumberbatch has been an grandfather Peter Pyemont founded outstanding talent within Bede’s the school; he championed all sports cricket, consistently showcasing and had a special love for cricket. her exceptional all-round skills. Her dedication has led to her representing Cricket at the school has gone from strength to strength, stepping up the West Indies in the U19 Women’s

to the next level under previous headmaster Steve Cole, who created a director of cricket role to enable the school to run a professional-standard programme What sets the school apart?

A key feature is the option for pupils to exchange a GCSE for a playercentric performance programme.

This intensive training takes place in superb indoor facilities and on unrivalled outdoor pitches. The

coaching team is highly experienced, including five former firstclass cricketers with county and international experience. They also have strong ties to county junior pathways.

The coaching philosophy is a holistic and empathetic player-centric approach, supporting both performance and personal growth Finest moment on the field Joe Sarro taking a hat-trick in the semi-final of the U17 National Cup against Millfield Recent progress The U17 boys made it to the quarter finals of the National Cup Future plans Two new ECBapproved wickets and pitches have been approved for development Tours Antigua (2026)

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BEDFORD SCHOOL

BEDFORD SCHOOL De Parys Ave, Bedford MK40 2TU Established 1552 Number of pupils 750 Director of cricket Gary Steer Professionals Tom Brett, Charlie Thurston (both Northamptonshire) Teams Boys: 15 teams across the age groups Fixtures Across 170 matches the standout games come against Eton, Harrow, Stowe, Oundle, Haileybury, MCC and Tonbridge, which is a traditional two-day match Facilities Two 1st XI grass nets, 19 artificial nets, six indoor lanes, nine cricket grounds Club/county affiliation They currently have an official partnership with Northamptonshire CCC Best prospect Josh Edmundson is wicketkeeper-batsman and Leo Tapp is a seam-bowling batter. Both are

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in the U14s. Zarell Harding is a fast bowling, middle-order batter who has recently represented Barbados at under 15 and 17, and Mustafa Haroon is a batter who can bowl leg-spin.

Additionally, they currently have 46 county cricketers in school Cricketers of note Sir Alastair Cook (Essex, England), Ian Peck, Toby Bailey, Alex Wakely, James Kettleborough (England U19 Capt/ Northants/Glamorgan), Christian Davis (England U18), Charlie Thurston, Harry Gouldstone, Gus Miller (all Northamptonshire), Will Smith (Nottinghamshire, Durham, Hampshire), Emilio Gay (England Lions, Durham, Northamptonshire) Brief history Cricket was first played at Bedford School in 1787 and the school’s first cricket club was formed in the early 19th century. It continues to be one of the school’s four major sports Cultural cricketers George Furbank, Fraser Dingwall, Andy Gomersall, Martin Bayfield (all England rugby union internationals), Percy Godfrey (composer), Charles Randall, John Witherow (both journalists) What sets the school apart? The quality of the cricket programme i.e. number of group and 1:1 sessions, the number of full-time cricket staff (3)

and 2 level 4 coaches. Boys receive 10 sessions of cricket per week in the autumn term, in spring this goes up to 20 sessions per week with summer 4 sessions per week plus fixtures.

This is in addition to the 1:1/1:2 programme with boys in PE. Finest moment on the field Winning the National Schools U17 Cup Recent progress Progress has been made with the formation of the full time cricket staff, which is now at three. As a result, Bedford are now able to offer more 1:1 and 1:2 sessions, more squad sessions and more skill sessions. Partnership with Northamptonshire CCC has seen a number of boys progress on to the Northants player pathway, with use

“I think the key thing for me is the level of expertise that is on offer at the school,” said Duffy.

The arrival of Ian McGowan “All coached at a really high at Bedford as director of standard. We’ve got three fullsport has taken the school’s time coaching staff for cricket cricket offering to a new all year round; the volume of level, believes assistant head cricket with boys across all Ayden Duffy. standards and access is just The appointment of vast. And we’ve really added to McGowan, the youngest our programme over the last Northern Irishman to become 18 months.” an ECB Level 4 coach, means Gary Steer Director of cricket Northamptonshire greats that Bedford have two David Sales and David Ripley have helped members of staff with the top level of cricket out across the school’s pathway as well, while coaching qualification. Gary Steer, the longtime Durham opener Emilio Gay – another product director of cricket, is also Level 4-qualified. of Bedford – “is still happy to help out where Tom Brett, who briefly played for he can”. Gay is part of England Lions’ squad in Northamptonshire, is also on the staff as a Level Australia this winter and has his sights set on the 3 coach, while Charlie Thurston – a Bedford upcoming T20 World Cup with Italy. alumnus – is also working at the school, having “When they’re working with the top-end boys, retired from professional cricket. Thurston they’ve been through it,” added McGowan. “So, came through Middlesex’s age-group system, going on to play for Northants across all formats. they can work on the mental side as well as the

of the county ground indoor cricket centre and first class coaching from former player, David Sales and David Ripley, creating a pathway to firstclass cricket for elite players What has changed in the last 10 years? The biggest area of development is fewer declaration matches being played by Bedford.

Instead, the fixture list is full of more 20, 30 and 50-over cricket. An official link with Northamptonshire CCC, more cricket squares have been added to the grounds, new indoor cricket nets and new outdoor cricket nets Future plans The school are looking to renovate the existing cricket squares and develop two new cricket squares, ready for next season Tours Barbados (2026)

technical side. Because of the experience that they’ve got, they can add just a little bit more on top.”

He has joined from Merchant Taylors’, one of the country’s leading cricket schools, and Bedford pride themselves on sharing this breadth of expertise between pupils of all abilities.

“And that’s really important and a part of the ethos here at Bedford School, that if you don’t come to the school with a love for something, you definitely leave with a love for a sport,” said McGowan.

To that end, there is significant pride in the Old Bedfordians’ triumph in this year’s Cricketer Cup final, the school’s first title in the old boys’ competition, with Thurston in charge as captain.

“They beat Tonbridge in the final,” said Duffy.

“And what was great about it is that we had over 30 OBs that played in that team; most teams had a real core team that played every week. But it just sort of shows the culture and connection with the school. That once you come to Bedford, you’re always Bedford.”

Bedfordschool.org.uk • Admissions: +44 (0)1234 362216 • admissions@bedford.org.uk thecricketer.com | 29

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BERKHAMSTED SCHOOL // BISHOP’S STORTFORD COLLEGE

BERKHAMSTED SCHOOL Knox Johnston Sports Centre, Kings Campus, Kings Road, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 3BG Established 1541 Number of pupils 2200 Head(s) of Cricket George Campbell (Boys) & Mark Costin (Girls) Professional Benjamin Caidan (Berkhamsted CC) Teams There are 77 teams across boys and girls between U9 and U18 level Fixtures Up to 242 fixtures are played across the whole school. The highlight is Cricket Week against MCC, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and The ACE Programme Facilities There are 12 squares, six of which are covered and four astro-turf wickets. The 1st XI pitch has undersoil drainage and a laser levelled outfield.

One lane indoor cricket facility and five lanes in sportshall for winter use.

Benefit from excellent relationship with Berkhamsted CC and have use of their four-lane net facility and two additional squares Club/county affiliation Strong links with Berkhamsted CC and use of their professional staff. The club has weekly use of the school grounds for training and matches. Relationships also exist with Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire and The ACE Programme Best prospects Twenty pupils are currently involved with county age group pathways from U14 upwards.

Edward H is a batter and spinner who has played for Northamptonshire 2nd XI. Freya L-W and Edie S have both played for Hertfordshire 1st XI as a wicket keeper and a batter respectively Cricketers of note Bethan Miles (Surrey & England Development XI), Anna Nicholls

(Northern Diamonds), Alf Pope (Derbyshire) & Derek Morgan (Derbyshire) Brief history There is evidence of cricket being played as far back as 1880 when 10 matches were staged, all against Berkhamsted Brewery Cultural cricketers James Rodwell (rugby 7s), Will Fraser (rugby union), Sir Robin Knox-Johnston (sailor) What sets the school apart? The school has a large PE department of 47 staff including 17 ECB coaches meaning teams across the ability range are taken by qualified staff. Most Saturdays 30 teams are fielded with an even 15/15 split of girls/boys. Our strong relationship with Berkhamsted CC enables large numbers of pupils to continue playing outside of school.

The school runs an extensive extra curricular provision for specialist areas like wicket keeping, fast bowling etc.

According to Wisden, the last two years Berkhamsted has played the most fixtures for any Girls 1st XI (26) and had the top female wicket taker in the country: Hannah Miles (36) in 2024 and Amelia Dewar (40) in 2025 Finest moment on the field In 2022, the girls 1st XI reached School Sport Magazine National T20 Finals Day. Recent progress The number of ECB-qualified coaches amongst the staff has grown to 17. Average scores made by the girls teams has increased considerably, as has the number of 50s and 100s.

Future plans The school are hoping to host more local primary school competitions within the borough.

They want to constantly develop facilities and are looking at installing rope boundaries on four of our main grounds. The 2026 season will see a brand new outdoor astro-turf net facility Tours Sri Lanka (2026)

BISHOP’S STORTFORD COLLEGE

(Middlesex, Durham), Charles Titchmarsh (MCC) Brief history The college was founded by School House Maze Green prominent East Anglian Road Bishop’s Stortford Nonconformists. It opened Hertfordshire, CM23 2PQ its doors to just 40 pupils.

The first head was the Rev Established 1250 Richard Alliott who led the Number of pupils 1868 school for 31 years. The Head of boys’ cricket Dave Hughes school only had five heads Dave Hughes Head of boys’ during its first 100 years. In Head of girls’ cricket cricket 1995, the college became Megan Betteridge fully co-educational. Celebrated Professional Ben Twohig 150th anniversary in 2018 by hostinhe (Worcestershire) BBC’s Question Time.

Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, Cultural cricketers Sir Stephen U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd Lander (MI5 director-genera), Andy XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls’ cricket: Peebles (radio DJ) Alongside indoor girls-only practices, What sets the school apart? teams also enter the Lady Taverners Players are offered one-to-one indoor competition. They receive coaching during their games quality coaching from Essex coaches and players during the winter academy. afternoons. They also provide a popular winter academy for all, with Under-13 and Under-15 teams enter coaching contributions from the likes the Essex Cup and Mid-Essex league, of Adam Wheater and Jamie Porter and they host a girls cricket festival.

Finest moment on the field The Following the U15s into the Schools college was the first UK school to Sport Essex Divisional League is an tour Sri Lanka in 1985/86 and played U14 and 1st XI side in the inaugural Sir Garfield Sobers Fixtures The senior school plays International Cricket Schools Festival nearly 100 matches a season. Annual in Barbados 1st XI match against the MCC is most Recent progress The progress and notable fixture speed of uptake of girls’ cricket at Facilities Four main squares, 16 artificial outdoor nets, two mobile net the college has been remarkable.

There is genuine enthusiasm and cages, two indoor nets plus 10 shared the fixture list is constantly growing, training/match pitches thanks to investment made in new Club/county affiliation and upgraded cricket facilities and the Hertfordshire CCC, Bishop’s endorsement for the quality of main Stortford , Herts & Essex Cricket square by Mick Hunt Centre, Essex CCC Future plans To develop and Best prospect Year 11s Cameron enhance strong links with Essex CCC. Krauth and Abbey Tomlin both play Hope to add new sports facilities for Hertfordshire Tours Cape Town (2027, 2029) Cricketers of note AG Doggart thecricketer.com | 31

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

BLUNDELL’S SCHOOL Blundell’s Rd, Tiverton EX16 4DN Established 1604 Number of pupils 620 Director of cricket Dean Headley (England, Kent, Middlesex) Teams Mixed: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABC, 13ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U15ABC, U13ABCD Fixtures Up to 175 matches are played for boys and girls. Most notable fixtures are MCC, Millfield, King’s College, Taunton, Taunton School and Sherborne Facilities Five new indoor lanes with 700 Lux lighting, four grass squares and a junior pitch, nine grass nets, four brand new astro pitches, two professional bola machines, two Junior BOLA, brand new four-lane fully enclosed artificial cricket nets installed by Total Play Club/county affiliation The school has hosted the South-West Development Camp for two years, featuring Somerset, Cornwall and Devon for the U13 age group.

The Devon pathway and Devon CCC matches are now hosted at the school.

Coaching clinics are offered to local junior schools before matches in the afternoon. Devon pathway also uses the indoor facility for 18 weeks in their extensive programme Best prospect Seb Linnitt is a right-handed opening batter, off-spinner and excellent fielder and is on the Somerset academy and features for the second XI. He scored 210 against Sherborne School and 32 | thecricketer.com

125 against Kingswood School Cricketers of note Vic Marks (Somerset and England), Jeremy Lloyds (Somerset, Gloucester, Orange Free State) Hugh Morris (Glamorgan, England), Dominic Bess (Yorkshire, Somerset, England), Roger Davies (Glamorgan), Ulick Considine (Somerset) Brief history Blundell’s was founded in 1604 but the earliest record of a cricket match took place in September 1844 against Tiverton club. Since then, the school has produced many cricketers, (four Old Blundellians were part of the team that won Olympic gold for cricket in 1900) who have gone on to play at club, county and national level, and witnessed some notable games and events on the field Cultural cricketers Christopher Ondaatje (author and philanthropist), Michael Mates (politician), Tristan Evans (musician) Finest moment on the field U15 boys reached the semi-finals in the National Cup in 2023 Recent progress Upgrade of facilities including four astro, new four-lane enclosed artificial facility, new scoreboard with solar panels and four sight screens Future plans The building of a new pavilion in the next two years, a conversion of a hockey cage to dual purpose to provide another four lanes of outdoor practice and the purchasing of a Merlyn machine are all in the pipeline Tours Sri Lanka (2027)

BLUNDELL’S SCHOOL // BRADFIELD COLLEGE

BRADFIELD SCHOOL Kirk Edge Rd, Worrall, Sheffield S35 0AE Established 1850 Number of pupils 830 Master in charge Mike Hill Professional Rob Ferley (Durham) Teams Twenty-two teams across boys and girls between U14 and U18 level Fixtures As many as 150 regular season fixtures alongside hosting pre-season festivals for U14s, U15s and U18s. Post-season festivals for boys and girls 1st XIs against Repton, Epsom and St Peter’s, York. Both 1st XIs play formats from 100-ball to declaration cricket. In the last week of term teams play two-day fixtures against Malvern and Shrewsbury Facilities Seven grass squares, 14 grass nets, nine astro nets and five indoor nets. Floodlit winter fixtures are played on the Astro hockey pitches Club/county affiliation Hosting primary school cricket festivals, inviting local clubs and academies to be part of pre-season festivals.

Bradfield cricket coaches work in local schools to support their cricket programmes Cricketers of note Lauren Bell (England, Hampshire, Southern Brave), Gus Atkinson (England, Surrey, Oval Invincibles), Ryan Higgins (Middlesex), Harry Came (Derbyshire), Zach Lion-Cachet

(Sussex CCC, Netherlands), Sheridon Gumbs (Leicestershire CCC), Ava Lee, Poppy Tulloch and Pippa Sproul (Hampshire CCC) Brief history Each 1st XI since 1850 is listed on the ceiling of Pit Pavilion and since 2018 the boys have been joined by the girls XIs. Bradfield are holders of both Cricketer Cups, the John Harvey Cup, and competed in Finals Day for the Girls U17 and U18 T20 Cups What sets the school apart?

Cricket has a proud heritage at Bradfield and they continue to explore new ways to make sure they can compete at the highest levels into the future. The cricket club’s two driving aims are to foster a lifelong love of the game while providing the opportunity for the strongest cricketers to work towards a career in the game Recent progress Numbers playing cricket continue to rise and for the first time the school fielded a senior girls 2nd XI offering competitive cricket while also continuing to stretch the most able. One hundred pupils take 1:1 coaching with the four full time professional coaches supporting them throughout Tours In October 2025, 35 pupils went to Kenya for 12 days on a tour that involved six fixtures for each of the three teams, community work in Nairobi and a visit to the Masai Mara. This will be followed up with a similarly exciting tour for boys and girls in October 2026

BRENTWOOD SCHOOL

BRENTWOOD SCHOOL

a four-lane sports hall facility. Building of new four-lane astro net facility has allowed more pupils to train during Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood, the summer Essex CM15 8EE Club/county affiliation Old Brentwoods CC, Billericay Established 1557 CC, Essex CCC Number of pupils 1650 Best prospect Ossie Elliott Head of cricket plays for Essex Premier Paul Davidge League team Hutton and Professional Jaik Essex U18s and in 2024 made Mickleburgh (Essex) his debut in the 2nd XI. Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd Jaik Mickleburgh Sophia Mitchell is part of the XI, U17, U15AB, U14ABC, Professional Essex academy and was in U13ABC, U12ABC. Girls: the full county team in 2024 1st XI, U17, U15A, U14A, Cricketers of note Stanley Scott U13AB, U12AB (Middlesex), Charles Kortright, Colin Fixtures Brentwood play over 150 Griffiths, Graham Horrex, David fixtures during the course of the term.

Acfield, Richard Baker, Max Osborne, Noteworthy games are against MCC, Ian Pont, Kishen Velani, Thomas Felsted, The Leys, Framlingham and Moore, Robin Das (all Essex) Rishi Ipswich for the boys, whilst the girls Patel (Leicestershire and Essex) also play against Bishop’s Stortford Brief history Brentwood has a College and Bancrofts. Both partake strong reputation as one the leading in an end of term festival against St. schools in the region for provision John’s, Abingdon and Oundle and success. Over the recent years Facilities Access to five turf squares the school has been dominant in and two as wickets. Facilities at Old county cup competitions with the Brentwood and Billericay CC are addition of successful girls teams. also utilised. Each square has roll-on There are still many old boys that covers and batting cages. Ten lanes of astro wickets are split across two sites, return to play against the 1st XI in our

annual fixture and continue to speak fondly of their experiences of playing for the school Cultural cricketers Jack Straw MP, Frank Lampard (footballer), Eddie Hearn (boxing promoter) Finest moment on the field In 2022, the school claimed five of the county cup titles. The school also

won the overall ENISL league. The girls U13 indoor team won the county cup for the first time in 2025 Future plans Plans to expand Saturday programme from 2026 with more opportunities for boys C teams and girls’ B teams in particular. This winter will see a girls cricket academy Tours Barbados, Dubai (2026)

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

BRIGHTON COLLEGE

BRIGHTON COLLEGE Eastern Rd, Brighton and Hove, Brighton BN2 0AL Established 1845 Number of pupils 1275 Director of cricket Mark Davis Professional Jason Swift Teams 16 teams across boys and girls Fixtures Each team has at least eight fixtures with A teams having 12 and the boys’ 1st XI 29 Facilities Indoor Cricket School, 10 outdoor astro nets, three indoor nets. Home Ground has eight hybrid grass wickets, the Jubilee Ground one grass and one astro wicket Best prospect Freddie Wallis is part of the Sussex 2nd XI and Academy, and is captain of the U18s and Brighton College Cricketers of note Matt Prior, Sarah Taylor, Clare Connor CBE, Holly Colvin (all England, Sussex), Freya Davies, Georgia Adams (England, Hampshire, Southern Brave) Laura Marsh (England, Surrey), Dan Lategan (Worcestershire), Bazid Khan (Pakistan), Carl Hopkinson,

MEET THE DIRECTOR OF CRICKET

Izzy Collis, Matt Machan (all Sussex), Sammy Woods (England, Australia), Michael Thornely (Leicestershire, Sussex)

Brief history Brighton College has a rich history in both boys and girls’ cricket, and was one of the first schools to start playing

Lategan, highlighted by The Cricketer in a martch against Hurstpierpoint in 2024, There’s nothing better for a might soon have company in school cricketer than having terms of Brighton cricketers a recent team-mate you can making their way in the aspire to emulate. professional game; Freddie At Brighton College, Wallis and Harry Eastman they don’t have to look far. have recently featured Daniel Lategan left the in Sussex’s 2nd XI and school last year and had his Under-18 sides respectively. breakthrough year in 2025, Mark Davis Director of cricket And with the recent making his professional successes of Georgia Adams debut for Worcestershire. and Freya Davies, both of whom attended “Daniel joined us in sixth form from South Brighton College, girls’ cricket is in a strong Africa and we’re proud he’s one of ours,” says director of cricket Mark Davis, himself a former position.

It’s a time of celebration for cricket at the county cricketer with Sussex.

College after the squad returned to their “It’s fantastic that he is achieving so much, Home Ground headquarters at the heart of and it’s great that our current squad have the school, while their Boys’ 1st XI triumphed someone they can look up to.”

girls and boys in the same teams.

The school has produced a large number of professional men and women, including many decorated international players What sets the school apart?

The Home Ground is the most incredible place to play cricket, and one of the best school pitches in the country. Situated next to the stunning School of Science and Sport, and overlooked by the Sammy Woods Cricket Pavilion, it provides space for sports training, matches and socialising with friends. Former Sussex cricketer Mark Davis joined Brighton College as director or cricket in the January before the Covid-19 outbreak. Since then he has worked tirelessly to change the narrative around how people on the south coast think of the school’s cricket programme. The picturesque location is the perfect place to inspire and engage, and represents a fitting place for as many youngsters as possible to get their first taste of the sport Finest moment on the field Clare Connor CBE, becoming the first girl to play in a boys’ 1st XI Recent progress 1st XI boys are current BOWS Festival champions while the U15 girls were the inaugural Stowe Cricket Festival winners Future plans Adding grass net practice facilities on the Home Ground

in the fifth annual BOWS Festival too.

The tournament sees Brighton test their skills against schools from other regions of England in the form of Oakham, Wellington College and Sedbergh (hence BOWS, an acronym of the four participants).

The Girls’ 1st XI are emulating the boys’ BOWS triumph after winning the tournament last year and being runners‑up in 2025, and this summer the girls’ U15 team won the inaugural Stowe Festival.

The Boys’ U14A team won the Sussex Cup, meaning they will got to play at national level in the age group above.

“Girls’ cricket is thriving, especially in the younger age groups. It’s brilliant to see,” says Davis.

“It’s going from strength to strength and we really just want to try and encourage that love of the game for everyone.”

brightoncollege.org.uk • collegeadmissions@brightoncollege.net • +44 (0)1273 704 200 34 | thecricketer.com

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

BROMSGROVE SCHOOL Worcester Road, Bromsgrove, B61 7DY Established 1553 Number of pupils 1064 Director of cricket Tom Milnes Professional Kelly Evenson Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB Fixtures Bromsgrove School play more than 100 matches each summer across a strong and challenging fixture list in all ages groups, as well hosting a number of touring sides from other countries, giving pupils exposure to different cultural and cricketing experiences Facilities Three sports halls with a grand total of 16 indoor nets, four grass nets and also a five-lane multisport surface to use in adverse weather. Facilities also include six grass squares across the school Club/county affiliation Warwickshire CCC, Worcestershire CCC, Derbyshire CCC, Hampshire CCC Best prospects Alfie Higgins, George Hall and Ayan Khan Cricketers of note Tom Banton (Somerset, England, Trent Rockets); Ben Cox (Worcestershire, Leicestershire, Trent Rockets); Jonathon Webb (Warwickshire); Will Fraine (Nottinghamshire & Yorkshire); Matt Lamb (Warwickshire & Derbyshire); Jaques Banton (Worcestershire) Charis Paveley (Bears, Birmingham Phoenix) Brief history The school was 36 | thecricketer.com

first recorded in 1476 as a chantry school, and was re-established as a grammar school between 1548 and 1553. The 1693 financial endowment of Sir Thomas Cookes, 2nd Baronet of Norgrove Court in Worcestershire, produced the first buildings on the present site and the historic link with Worcester College, Oxford. The arms of Cookes were adopted by both Worcester College and Bromsgrove School. John Day Collis became the headmaster in December 1842.

The tercentenary of the grammar school was celebrated on March 31, 1853. During the Second World War, the entire school was temporarily moved to Llanwrtyd Wells in Wales, as the school buildings were requisitioned by British government departments Cultural cricketers Digby Jones, Michael Heseltine (both politics), Ian Carmichael, Richard Wattis, Trevor Eve, Nick Miles, Arthur Darvill (actors), Nicholas Evans, Chris Atkins (writers), Iskra Lawrence (model), Isaiah Burnell, John Illsley, Ritchie Neville, Soweto Kinch (musicians), Matt Neal (motorsport), Andy Goode, Ben Foden, Ollie Lawrence, Matt Mullan (all rugby union) Finest moment on the field Winning the U17 National Cup against St Bede’s in 2019 Future plans The school hopes to host a number of 1st Class fixtures in the near future

BROMSGROVE SCHOOL // CATERHAM SCHOOL

CATERHAM SCHOOL Harestone Valley Rd, Caterham CR3 6YA Established 1811 Number of pupils 1300 Master in charge Jonathan Batty Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABCD. Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14AB, U13AB, U12ABCD Fixtures Of the 145 seasonal fixtures, the highlight is the meeting with MCC Facilities Seven cricket squares, five outdoor nets, four indoor nets and three roll on cages Club/county affiliation Caterham CC Best prospects Lucy Blincoe is a high quality left-arm spinner who plays for Kent U16s and U18s and was young player of the year in 2024.

Sam Mulvihill is an off-spinning allrounder and plays for Surrey U14s.

Charlie Atkinson is a fast bowling allrounder and plays for Surrey U13s.

Sophie Savage is an allrounder who plays for Kent U13s, and Martha Pitt is an allrounder who plays for Kent U14s Cricketers of note Alistair Brown (Surrey, England), David Sales (Northants,), James Benning, Nathan Barnwell (both Surrey) Brief history The school was founded in 1811, in Lewisham, by the Rev. John Townsend to provide a boarding education for the sons of Congregationalist ministers. In 1884, they moved to the current site in

the picturesque Harestone Valley in Surrey, having outgrown the London premises. Co-educational for over 35 years after they merged with Eothen School for Girls to create a new independent co-educational foundation Cultural cricketers Angus Deayton (TV presenter), Chuck Iwuji (actor) What sets the school apart?

Few establishments can rival Caterham for its beautiful grounds and surroundings, rich cricketing history and track record of producing quality first-class players. Given the wealth of knowledge and experience of Batty, who heads up the programme, his presence is a coup.

Having had roles with Melbourne Stars, Delhi Capitals, Surrey and Oval Invincibles, students have access to one of the very best on the elite circuit. Cricket is a games option available for all year groups Finest moment on the field In 2015, a 50-over record of 427 for 5 was made against Christ’s Hospital Recent progress The continued growth of senior and prep school girls cricket Future plans Caterham are looking to continue to grow girls’ cricket and progress the link with Caterham Cricket Club who share their facilities. Additionally, they’re looking to add to their current net facilities to accommodate the growth in the girls’ game and generally the number of pupils playing cricket Tours Suffolk (annual) Cape Town (2025)

CHARTERHOUSE

CHARTERHOUSE Hurtmore Rd, Godalming, GU7 2DX Established 1611 Number of pupils 947 Director of cricket Martin Bicknell (England, Surrey) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15 ABC, U14 ABC Fixtures The 1st XI play up to 20 matches over the term, with notable fixtures being Eton, Harrow, Tonbridge, and the MCC. The Girls 1st XI is now nearing 15 fixtures, and they won the Surrey U18 Cup in 2025. The U15s also won the Surrey Cup in 2024 Facilities Seven cricket squares, two artificial. 18 artificial nets and a sports centre for indoor training Best prospects Oli Gibson and Ollie Webster are the standout boys, and Hope Horne, Livvy Spencer are the ones to watch in the Girls 1st XI

MEET THE DIRECTOR OF CRICKET

Cricketers of note Aubrey Smith, Frederick Fane, Peter May (all England) Brief history The earliest Charterhouse Cricket register starts in 1837, but there are prints depicting cricket at Charterhouse dating from the mid-18th century. The Charterhouse grounds in London were uneven, unsuitable for sport and so it was not until the school moved to Godalming in 1872 that cricket could be played seriously.

Since then, Charterhouse has produced more than 80 first-class cricketers, 50 county cricketers, six Test cricketers and three England

captains. The first girls’ cricket team was formed at Charterhouse in 1984 at a time when only a few girls were accepted into the Sixth Form. Isabelle Duncan (Charterhouse 1990-1992), was one of the first women to be elected to membership of the MCC. Charterhouse became fully co-ed in 2021 What sets the school apart?

Facilities and grounds are possibly the best on the school circuit. Bicknell played for Surrey for 21 years, taking 1,500 wickets and scoring over 8,000 runs. He represented England in four Tests and seven ODIs Finest moment on the field The

at that level, I can give them a lot of insight into what is required to get to that level.

Charterhouse School “From a coaching has a history of creating perspective, I am well qualified professional cricketers from to offer advice in all aspects. their programme. Since Mentoring is probably more the school’s cricket set up important. Simple things was stepped up, they have around success and failure. produced 80 first-class What a good day and a bad cricketers, which included day looks like. How you can six Test cricketers and Martin Bicknell Director of cricket deal with those things. That three England captains. is just as important as dealing And while the production with the technique side of things. line has slowed down in recent times, the “Once they get to that professional level, it is infrastructure remains. a pretty cruel game when it comes to success With Martin Bicknell, former England and failure. Sometimes you are coming out of a cricketer, as the head of cricket, there is both private school with a slightly cosy environment. technical and mental guidance on how to step Into a very harsh environment, getting the into the professional game. balance and preparation is really important.”

Bicknell said: “Being able to show people that For those that has designs on making a there is a way to go professional, guiding people career out of their love for the game and in that way. With my background having played

girls have dominated the Surrey Cup, winning in the last two years, with success in the U15s and 1st XI Recent progress The progress in girls’ cricket has been top of the list for Charterhouse. As well the aforementioned success, the boys narrowly lost out in the Cowdrey Cup, finishing second to Wellington by the smallest of margins Future plans Cricket remains very popular and the future appears bright for the sport at Charterhouse.

Four dedicated girls’ teams are set to compete weekly next year, promising even greater achievements to come

their talent, there are one to one sessions, but the programme also accommodates the ‘casual cricketer’.

There are three sessions a week throughout the summer for everyone but, in Bicknell’s words, pupils will “get as much as they want”.

He added: “They might not always want to do an extra session. They are playing to enjoy it rather than seeing it as a career.”

The biggest area of improvement for the school’s cricket programme is their girls’ section, which has been fully in place since they went co-ed in 2021. “That’s a culmination of probably four years of work to upskill and also develop our programme,” Bicknell explained. “The girls get the same opportunities as the boys, same training time. It’s a bit of a culture shift in our school to make sure the girls are fully invested in cricket. We take it just as seriously as the boys and give them every opportunity.” The girls’ U15s and 1st XI have both won the Surrey Cup in the last two years.

Admissions@charterhouse.org.uk • Tel +44 (0)1483 291500 • charterhouse.org.uk thecricketer.com | 37

Founded in 1611.

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06/10/2025 13:12

CHELTENHAM COLLEGE // CHRIST COLLEGE, BRECON

across the summer term. They include opposition such as Stowe School, Radley College, Abingdon, Marlborough College, Clifton College, St. Edward’s Oxford and Bloxham School. There are also traditional fixtures against Gloucestershire Gipsies, Free Foresters and the MCC. The finale to the season is the long standing two-day fixture against Haileybury Facilities Five cricket squares plus a dedicated square for the Cheltenham Cricket Festival. Double sports hall

with eight indoor nets. Four artificial nets and four grass nets. Also have use of the Cheltenham Prep School sports hall with a further four indoor nets Club/county affiliation Gloucestershire CCC, Charlton Kings CC Best prospect 1st XI captain Oscar Moore of year 12 is part of the Gloucestershire CCC Academy and has been playing for the county 2nd XI. He primarily plays as a pace bowler but he is also a top-order batter for the school Cricketers of note Kumar Shri Duleepsinhji (Cambridge University, Sussex CCC, England), Josh Dell (Worcestershire CCC, England U19s), Oliver Soames (Hampshire CCC), Mike Cawdron and Dom Hewson (Gloucestershire CCC) Brief history Cricket has been played at college since its founding in 1841.

All players benefit from year-round coaching from Mark Briers, while Will Naish has joined the staff. They are assisted by ECB qualified cricket coaches and experienced members of the college teaching staff. The 1st XI square is renowned as one of the finest cricket pitches in the country.

The Cheltenham Cricket Festival is hosted every year, and has done since 1872, with Gloucestershire CCC playing host to other first class counties across formats Cultural cricketers Jack Clement, Seb Blake, Nick Abendanon (all rugby union) Finest moment on the field Winning the ARCH trophy in the UAE in 2019 Recent progress The continued development of the girls’ cricket programme, with a full winter programme and a full season of 1st XI fixtures, boosted by the arrival of two cricket scholars into the XI. The U15 girls have reached the last 16 of the National 100-ball cup competition.

Future plans Development of the outdoor practice facilities and the arrival of the first Chris Coley Cricket Scholar into the sixth form

fixtures against regional and Herefordshire county teams. School offers cricket scholarships to local/ Christ College, Llanfaes, regional and international Brecon LD3 8AF pupils. College hosts an U11 South Wales Hardball clubs Established 1541 Steve Bradley festival. College hosts South Number of pupils 388 Head of cricket Wales U15 and U13 Girls Head of cricket Softball tournaments and Steve Bradley junior matches take place on Friday Professional Josh Spies nights and Sunday mornings against (Abergavenny CC) local clubs Teams Boys: 1st XI, U17, U16, U15, Best prospects Eve Jackson, Sophie U14, U13, U12, U11 hardball, U11 Williams, Tess Jackson, Ted Jackson softball. Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14, U13, and Jack Ryan U12 Cricketers of note FA Smith, GL Fixtures The headline match in a Williams (both Somerset), J Gifford 94-match fixture block is against (MCC), WG Morgan, WP Morgan, MCC EN Morgan, AP Davies, Eve Jackson Facilities Two grass pitches/squares, (all Glamorgan) one new artificial/wicket pitch, one Brief history Cricket has been Flicx Wicket/astro turf pitch, six new played at the college since 1858. The (artificial) lane practice nets, one first recorded match on the Christ outdoor cage for use on practice College cricket ground, between the wicket on square, two indoor lane Headmaster’s XI and the Captain’s nets/practice area in Sports Hall XI, was played on May 21, 1879. Wales’ Club/county affiliation longest-running schools’ match v Abergavenny CC, Brecon CC, Cardiff Llandovery College was first played CC. Cricket Wales host regional and national festivals at the college during on May 24, 1865. Recently the college has introduced girls cricket and has the school holidays. College plays

an established 1st XI Recent progress College hosts CPD Cricket sessions on a Tuesday morning for all Sports staff, where knowledge and understanding of skills and techniques are developed.

One member of academic staff achieved an ECB core coach award in the winter and now coaches the U12 girls Future plans Glamorgan CC and Cricket Wales are very keen to extend

links with the college, playing more representative fixtures and playing Christ College teams. Glamorgan also want to coach female elite players at the college during the winter of 2026.

The school/club links are extending beyond the two existing clubs Tours Went to Jersey for a preseason tour with a mixed U15 team in 2024 and returned with the 1st XI in July for an end-of-season tour in 2025. Bound for Sri Lanka in 2027

CHELTENHAM COLLEGE Bath Rd, Cheltenham GL53 7LD Established 1841 Number of pupils 734 Director of cricket Matt Coley Professional Mark Briers (Durham, Worcestershire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABC, U14ABCD. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14 Fixtures Cheltenham play around 110 competitive fixtures

CHRIST COLLEGE, BRECON

thecricketer.com | 39

13:12

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS CLAYESMORE SCHOOL

CLAYESMORE SCHOOL // CLIFTON COLLEGE

winter programme with all students together and girls are encouraged to play cricket. They are integrated Iwerne Minster, Blandford into the summer teams if Forum DT11 8LL they want to play the game Fixtures All teams play a Established 1896 Dan Conway combined 80-90 fixtures, Number of pupils 380 Director of sport ranging from 100-ball to Director of sport Dan declaration cricket. This Conway (Oxford MCCU) variety ensures all students have Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, exposure to all formats of the game, U15AB, U14ABC. Girls: U18, U15 putting their skills to the test in Girls’ cricket Clayesmore run a

different match situations Facilities Six grass nets, four artificial nets, indoor sports hall with four lanes and four turf pitches Club/county affiliation Shroton CC, The ACE Programme Best prospects Tom Baines is a technical opening batsman with time at the crease. He can bowl off spin and keeps wicket for Dorset CCC. George Gundill is a hardhitting batsman who bowls a heavy length whilst swinging the ball away.

Plays county cricket for Wiltshire CCC Cricketers of note Lewis McManus (Hampshire, Northamptonshire), John Stephenson (Essex), G ReynoldsBrown (Essex) Brief history Clayesmore has been growing its cricketing tradition and has showcased its cricket since 1896. For the past 62 years the alumni have held their cricket week at the start of the summer holidays

Cultural cricketers Anthony Allen (rugby union), Shannon Falcone (sailor), Tom Hicks (author), Tony Hart (artist) What sets the school apart? The school run holiday courses so pupils and the community can enjoy the game when school has broken up Finest moment on the field Winning the South West T20 in 2023 and 2024, a success which is viewed as a testament to the programme and hard work of the coaching staff Recent progress The continued strength of the local links with clubs nearby, offering cricketing opportunities for pupils to engage with the game both inside and out of school. Having lots of pupils on CAGs and working with the county boards to ensure they are developing at the right pace. Some coaches are working in the community Future plans Continue to encourage pupils to engage with the ACE programme and develop their skills at the same time as coaching the junior end. Further upskill coaches and officials. School hopes to develop four new grass wickets in the nets, alongside a new pavilion and theatre

CLIFTON COLLEGE

James Kirtley (Sussex, England), Jim Williams, Prem Sisodiya (both Glamorgan), Dom Goodman (Gloucestershire, Sussex) Brief history Henry Newbolt “There’s a breathless hush in The Close to-night, Ten to make and the match to win” - wrote these lines in 1892 about cricket on Clifton’s Close, making the ground a location

famous throughout the world. Seven years after the poem was written AEJ Collins scored 628 not out in a Clifton College house match Cultural cricketers John Cleese (actor/writer) What sets the school apart?

The Close, located in the heart of the college, is one of the standout grounds in the country Finest moment on the field Defeating a Tonbridge School XI including Zak Crawley on The Nursery ground in 2014. It commemorated 100 years since the first fixture between the schools since the start of the First World War Recent progress The college continues to play the game enthusiastically at all levels. In April, the current U15 girls team came second in the indoor national finals at Lord’s What has changed in the last 10 years? After a comprehensive review

by Sir Clive Woodward, a new head of cricket role was established, held by Tim Hancock, who has a broad remit for developing girls and boys cricket from the prep school up to the 1st XI Tours Dubai (2025)

32 College Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 3JH Established 1862 Number of pupils 1200 Head of cricket Tim Hancock Professional Jim Williams (Glamorgan) Teams. There are 15 across boys and girls. Each have a 1st and 2nd XI Fixtures Matches include the MCC, a two day fixture against Rugby School, Malvern College, King’s College, Taunton, Millfield, Bradfield College Facilities Ten-lane artificial net area, five grass squares and three artificial wickets. From 2025, the Chellaram Sports Complex will have eight indoor net lanes as well as the existing fourlane indoor facility Club/county affiliation The school have partnered with nearby Tockington Manor School which is now part of the Clifton Education group, offering them expertise and facilities. A number of county age group matches are also hosted at Clifton 40 | thecricketer.com

Best prospects Zain Syed, Zaman Shafi and Logan Bowden are currently on Gloucestershire’s Academy and Jack Hope-Bell and Lewis Popple are part of Glamorgan’s Academy.

Bea Willis, Bella Herring and Imogen Davies are also fine prospects who have represented Gloucestershire Cricketers of note Joe Phillips, Matt Windows (Gloucestershire),

CRANLEIGH SCHOOL // DENSTONE COLLEGE

CRANLEIGH SCHOOL Horseshoe Ln, Cranleigh GU6 8QQ Established 1865 Number of pupils 700 Master in charge Gareth Pritchard Director of cricket Stuart Welch (MCC Young Cricketers) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15, U14 Fixtures Approximately 130 fixtures.

Boys play major blocks against Tonbridge, Wellington College, Epsom, Whitgift and finish the season with a two-day game against Charterhouse. Girls play Bradfield, Epsom, Middlesex, Surrey and Hampshire and have a two-day game against Berkhamsted. Both boys and girls play an annual fixture against the MCC Facilities Five grass squares with three additional grass squares at the Prep School along with two astroturf wickets. Two cages for nets on the square. Thirteen all weather outdoor nets, two-lane indoor cricket centre and threelane sports hall with adjoining space for indoor games Club/county affiliation Linked with Cranleigh Cricket Club and Surrey CCC. Facilities used by county pathway and junior teams, both boys and girls. Annual fixtures with county select teams.

The MCC Cranleigh Girls Foundation is also run by staff Best prospect Alex French is a fast bowler with the ability to score lower-order runs. He

represented Surrey last season and has been part of England Lions and Under-19 squads Cricketers of note Ollie Pope (England, Surrey, London Spirit), Tom Lawes (Surrey, Northern Superchargers), Michael Burgess (Warwickshire, Leicestershire, Sussex), Yousef Majid, Stuart Meaker, Tom Ealham, Adam Thomas (all Surrey) Brief history Cranleigh has a long tradition of producing top quality cricketers and giving opportunities for all to enjoy and improve their game. While there is an emphasis on elite players there is a team for every ability. Over a third of the school plays cricket throughout the summer with three weekly training sessions and matches provided for everyone.

Despite the presence of exams, Cranleigh regularly fields four senior teams throughout the summer and up to five in the early season.

Finest moment on the field Winning both the Cricketer Cup and National U15 Cup in 2014 Recent progress Continued development of female staff to coach and umpire matches.

Boys reaching the last eight of the National T20 Cup in 2024 Future plans Development of a new girls U18 league to help drive standards of play, pitches and umpires for the girls game and working alongside other similar schools to ensure girls cricket is given the same treatment as boys Tours Kenya (2026)

DENSTONE COLLEGE Denstone, Uttoxeter ST14 5HN Established 1873 Number of pupils 650 Head of cricket Paul Borrington Professionals Jonathan Clare (Derbyshire), Wes Durston (Somerset, Derbyshire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB Fixtures The 1st XI play approximately 20 matches, including against MCC, Forty Club, Stamford, Shrewsbury, Trent and an annual twoday fixture v Langley Park Facilities Five grass cricket grounds across the college site, 10 grass nets, six-lane outdoor astro net facility, three indoor nets in the sports hall Club/county affiliation Pupils are involved with Staffordshire, Derbyshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Warwickshire, as well as a host of local clubs.

Denstone hosts regular Staffordshire age group fixtures and training sessions. An annual U10 local primary school festival is held at Denstone, offering young people within the local community the opportunity to play cricket and represent their school. In 2025, Denstone hosted the Chance to Shine tournaments for girls at U15 and U13 age groups. Several local clubs train regularly at the College, including Uttoxeter CC, Clifton CC and Checkley CC Best prospects Rohan Vallabhaneni

(Staffordshire EPP, Derbyshire U18), Sophie Beech (Warwickshire Academy, Worcestershire) Cricketers of note Aneesh Kapil (Worcestershire, Surrey), Harvey Hosein, Rob Hemmings, Greg Cork, Alex Thomson (all Derbyshire), Jeremy Snape (Northamptonshire, Gloucestershire, Leicestershire, England) Brief history Cricket has been integral to life at Denstone since its foundation in 1873. The 1st XI pitch is situated at the heart of the school site which has helped maintain the popularity and success of the sport Cultural cricketers Alastair Hignell (rugby union), Arthur Berry (football) Finest moment on the field In 2012, the U15 XI beat Tonbridge to be crowned national champions, having also reached the final the previous year Recent progress Denstone College was awarded The Forty Club Trophy in November 2024 based on sportsmanship, performance and skills, individual and team, behaviour on and off the pitch and general turnout. A young officials course available to all 6th form pupils and there are now weekly internal CPD sessions offered to all staff, covering all areas of cricket. Boys and girls fixtures list continues to grow, as does the number of girls teams Future plans Develop and increase the number of touring opportunities for all pupils, host as many festivals and local clubs as possible and continuation of 1:1 coaching provision for all pupils Tours Barbados (2027) thecricketer.com | 41

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

DULWICH COLLEGE // DUNOTTAR SCHOOL

DULWICH COLLEGE Dulwich Common, London SE21 7LD Established 1619 Number of pupils 1950 Head of cricket Rob Craze Professionals Adam Riley (Kent), Sarah Taylor (England and Sussex) Teams There are 45 teams between Year 3 and 13 Fixtures Over 200 fixtures take place annually. Notable fixtures include Tonbridge School, Cranleigh School, MCC and touring sides such as Melbourne Grammar School, from Australia, and Christ’s College, from New Zealand Facilities Eight indoor nets in the sports hall, fourteen outdoor allweather nets, five all-weather match wickets and eight grass squares Best prospect Yohan Karalliedde in Year 9 is a gifted left-handed batter and upcoming left-arm spinner who has been selected for the Kent Senior Academy after a summer of runs for the school’s 1st XI, Kent U14 and U16 Cricketers of note Trevor Bailey (England & Essex CCC),

Roger Knight (Surrey CCC), Ruel Brathwaite (Durham CCC & Hampshire CCC) and Chris Jordan (England, Surrey CCC & Sussex CCC) 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 1st XI square for training and practice sessions. There is a rumour that the name ‘cow corner’ originated at Dulwich due to cows grazing in an area near deep midwicket Cultural cricketers PG Wodehouse (author) Finest moment on the field Dulwich reached the first three finals

of the U18 National T20 competition beating Sherborne School but losing against Repton School and Millfield School Recent progress The school’s most gifted and talented making significant progress in their respective counties Future plans A number of cricket facilities are being updated across the school in time for summer 2026 Tours Sri Lanka (2027)

more pupils access to better quality facilities to develop and give them a better cricket experience 36 High Trees Rd, Club/county affiliation Reigate RH2 7EL The school delivers over 200 hours of outreach Established 1926 Jack Myers coaching across a variety Number of pupils 470 Director of cricket of sports per year, utilising Director of cricket staff in a number of local Jack Myers independent and state junior schools Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, Best prospect Max Wallis is an U14AB, U13AB, U12ABC. Girls: 1st XI, aggressive left-handed batter and U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12ABC consistent left-arm spinner. He made Fixtures Dunottar have 120 his debut for Surrey 2nd XI in May scheduled fixtures in the summer term across boys and girls cricket. The 2025 and joined the Darren Lehmann Academy in Perth in October 2025 most notable fixtures include huge What sets the school apart? blocks against Caterham School, Cricket is the buzz sport at the St John’s Leatherhead and City of school and one that every pupil looks London Freemans as well as senior forward to. They provide opportunity boys blocks against Whitgift School for all who take a deep interest in Facilities For fixtures, Dunottar the sport whilst also always seeking makes use of Salfords CC, Merstham to stretch and challenge the most CC, Reigate Priory, Mynthurst, able cricketers with a morning girls Leigh Cricket, Netherne Cricket and and boys academy which runs from Dorking CC, who also make use of October on-site school facilities throughout Finest moment on the field their winter programme and in the summer term. A new link with Reigate Reaching the quarter-finals of the U14 and U15 boys County Cup in Priory CC has been created for use of 2021. In the same year, the school their four-lane facility. This has given

shared the sports hall with Ian Bell for The Cricketer magazine battesting day. In 2023, the U12A girls reached the County Cup final and as a school raised £2,500 in a charity game in 2024 Recent progress The number of teams has steadily grown, moving from 16 in 2022 to now having 21 in

2025. There has been an increase in senior boys and girls opting to play cricket thanks to the newlyformed women’s 1st XI and senior boys 2nd XI Future plans New four-lane facility being built Tours South Africa (2026), Desert Springs (2027)

DUNOTTAR SCHOOL

42 | thecricketer.com

DURHAM SCHOOL // EASTBOURNE COLLEGE

DURHAM SCHOOL

Club/county affiliation Durham CCC, Durham City CC Best prospect Grace Thompson achieved a professional contract with Durham Women, and took their first- ever wicket. She progressed through the Academy which toured Zimbabwe having been part of the England squad for the Women’s U19 World Cup. Daniel Hogg has also gained a professional contract with Durham. Durham Academy member George Fishwick made 165 against

Barnard Castle in a school match representing the 1st XI Cricketers of note Michael Roseberry (Middlesex, Durham), Andrew Roseberry (Leicestershire, Glamorgan), Phil Weston (Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Derbyshire), Robin Weston (Durham, Derbyshire, Middlesex) , Paul Muchall (Gloucestershire), Gordon Muchall (Durham), Jonny Bushnell, Daniel Hogg, Grace Thompson, Sol Bell (all Durham),

Fraser Watts (Scotland U19s, Olivia Rae (Scotland) Brief history The school has had a cricket team from at least 1847.

Regular matches with other schools began in 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 Cultural cricketers Mike Weston (rugby union) Finest moment on the field Beating MCC two years in a row Recent progress The girls’ programme has developed into a full-fledged success, with Thompson viewed as evidence it can produce someone who can reach the very top of the sport What has changed in the last 10 years? A full girls’ cricket programme has been introduced. There has also been a move away from block fixtures every weekend to allow matches to complement pupils’ academic and social development Future plans There is an eagerness to develop new cricket pavilion Tours (Sri Lanka (2025, 2027)

with Essex CCC, Sussex CCC and Kent CCC. Year 11 and Year 12 pupils participated in a cricket Old Wish Rd, Eastbourne service program designed BN21 4JY to teach them coaching skills as preparation Established 1867 Matilda Callaghan for those interested in Number of pupils 650 Director of cricket pursuing coaching courses.

Director of cricket As part of the program, Matilda Callaghan the students enjoyed coaching girls’ Fixtures There are over 200 fixtures cricket at a nearby state school in the annually. This year, Eastbourne lead-up to the season welcomed the women’s MCC XI to Best prospect Allrounder College Field for the first time, and Charl Spies is an integral, played the annual match against the Stragglers of Asia in its centenary year consistent part of the 1st XI and involved with Facilities Five indoor cricket lanes Sussex U16s with several bowling machines, Cricketers of including a Merlyn and technology note Ed Giddins such as PitchVision, which supports (Sussex, the winter programme. Outdoors, Warwickshire, there are five cricket pitches, with Surrey, England), the 1st XI pitch at the heart of the Brad Evans school, and eight outdoor astro nets (Zimbabwe, alongside one of the grounds. All Cardiff home fixtures for the 1st and 2nd XI MCCU), are streamed live via FrogBox Matthew Club/county affiliation An U14, U16 boys and girls MCC hub is run at Eastbourne throughout the winter.

Hobden Other strong links are established

(Sussex), Harry Finch (Sussex, Kent), Jamie Atkins (Sussex), Oli Carter (Sussex), Tom Hinley (Sussex), Dan Ibrahim (Sussex), Tawanda Muyeye (Kent, Oval Invincibles), Emmanuel Bawa (Zimbabwe U19s).

Brief history Cricket has been played on College Field since 1867, celebrating 150 years of tradition in 2017. It remains one of the College’s core sports, with teams competing in both weekend block fixtures and mid-week matches throughout the summer.

Cricketers benefit from specialist coaching year-round, including an extensive oneto-one programme and access to indoor facilities. Each season concludes with an end-of-season festival Finest moment on the field During the 100th anniversary game v the Stragglers of Asia, captain Paddy Cooper and vicecaptain Ed Nolan, scored

memorable centuries Recent progress Not only is participation increasing, but the standard of play continues to improve at Eastbourne. There is particular promise being shown by the girls’ 1st XI, of whom plenty is expected Future plans Building a new indoor cricket centre and improving the girls programme with more high-level coaching

Quarryheads Ln, Durham DH1 4SZ Established 1414 Number of pupils 746 Head of cricket Michael Fishwick Professional Gordon Muchall (Durham) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15, U14AB, U13, U12. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB Fixtures Boys and girls have around 100 fixtures combined. Notable matches are against Woodhouse Grove, Sedbergh, St Peter’s York, Ampleforth College, RGS Newcastle, Barnard Castle, MCC, Durham Pilgrims and Newcastle School for Boys. They also play three-day festivals at 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15, and U13 level.

Facilities An indoor sports hall with four lanes, main pitch on The Playground, a smaller second pitch on the senior site and a third pitch at Palmers Close.

Chorister School has an indoor sports hall with three lanes and an astro wicket

EASTBOURNE COLLEGE

thecricketer.com | 43

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

ELLESMERE COLLEGE // ELTHAM COLLEGE

ELTHAM COLLEGE ELLESMERE COLLEGE

Connor Davies, Josh Andrady (both Wales MC) Brief history Ellesmere College was opened in Ellesmere SY12 9AB 1884 and dedicated to St Oswald. It was Nathaniel Established 1879 Woodard’s seventh school.

Number of pupils 500 Gareth Owen At the time of opening Director of cricket Director of cricket he was the Sub Dean of Gareth Owen Manchester Cathedral and Professional Rod Jones Canon Woodard’s religious principles Teams Boys: 1st XI, AXI, U15AB, were central to the philosophy of his U14ABC, U13, U12, U11, U10, U9. Girls: Anglican school’s foundation Seniors, U15, U14, U13, U12, U11, U9.

Cultural cricketers Hugh Grosvenor Mixed: U11, U10 (Duke of Westminster), Sir Bill Fixtures Over 100 fixtures including Beaumont (rugby union) an end of year festival with MCC and Finest moment on the field the Shropshire Gentlemen Regional Champions (Midlands) Facilities Three grass squares, and semi-finalists of the National one artificial square, 12 grass nets, U14 ESCA/ECB 2015 National six outdoor artificial nets, two Competition. Reaching U15 Lady indoor halls, one with four lanes Taverners National Indoor Finals and another with two lanes, junior 2013. In 2016, the Shropshire Schools and senior bowling machines, 20 Sports Athletics Association sets of kwik cricket equipment, one awarded the schools U15 team gym, swimming pool and two senior the John Beswick Trophy for the pitches most successful Shropshire Team Club/county affiliation College in the county for all sports and has use of Shropshire Cricket Board age groups. The U18 and U15 girls facilities for winter training, matches recently reached latter stages of and festivals. Hosted fixtures with National Cups regard to facilitating development of Recent progress The continued MCC Hub. SCB also use school for development of the whole school cricket camps and North Wales play house and small group indoor fixtures against school teams competitions. The continued Best prospects Gethin Griffiths evolving and adapting of the fixture (Wales EPP), Oliver Dyson, Harry programme to include different Harrison (both Worcestershire EPP), formats to take account of different Daisy Cooke, Holly Cooke (both Lancashire EPP), Jake Hughes (North abilities and changing attitudes. A number of staff have achieved cricket Wales EPP) coaching qualifications Cricketers of note Ben Gibbon Future plans To continue to engage (Worcestershire), Dewi Penrhynthe community in the name of Cricket Jones (Glamorgan), Sam Ellis Ellesmere and, in particular, hosting (Shropshire), Harry Stow of juniors, particularly U11s, against a (Northamptonshire second XI), range of clubs Vansh Bajaj (Cambridge MCCU), 44 | thecricketer.com

and a strong fixture list for boys and girls. Over the years, Eltham has toured Grove Park Road, internationally, including Mottingham, London, visits to Australia, Sri SE9 4QF Lanka, Dubai, South Africa, and Barbados, providing Established 1842 Yasir Arafat invaluable experience Number of pupils 800 Professional and cultural exchange.

Head of cricket Josh Kelly The school has employed Professional Yasir Arafat several cricket professionals to (Pakistan) develop talent, with former Pakistan Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U16A, International Yasir Arafat currently U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABCD, providing coaching expertise.

U12ABCD. Girls: U16A, U15AB, Eltham regularly produces players U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABCD for county age-group sides Fixtures Of the 180 games the Finest moment on the field highlight is the 1st XI meeting with George Haley scored 208 not out in MCC 56 balls during a T20 match in 2014, Facilities Seven grass squares, one hitting 22 sixes and 16 fours, in the astro wicket, six grass nets, eight National T20 competition v John astro nets, four indoor nets, softball Fisher, coming to the crease at the matches played on two hockey end of the fourth over astros Recent progress Girls expect to be Club/county affiliation Eltham playing hardball cricket, they own host age-group Kent fixtures and a their own hardball cricket Bromley local primary schools finals kit and are keen to learn day as well as the MCC Foundations and develop their skills. fixtures With only 30-40 girls Best prospect Sebastian Lapena in most age groups, Eltham Murray of year 10 is in the compete well on the local Kent U16s squad. Has made co-educational circuit numerous hundreds for his against schools with far more age group and was top run established programmes scorer for the 1st XI last Future plans The college are year, including making continually looking to improve their 135 not out against The facilities, with the prospect of new XL Club practice and playing facilities on Cricketers of note the horizon. Next year they will Johan Malcom-Hansen have a girls 1st XI team playing (Leicestershire, for the first time Denmark) Tours Biennial tour to the UAE Brief history for the U14s and U15s boys. The Eltham College 1st XI head to Ipswich to play has a rich cricketing St Joseph’s College in a two-day, history, with the sport two-innings fixture each year, being a central part of providing a new school life. It boasts challenge excellent facilities

EMANUEL SCHOOL

EMANUEL SCHOOL Battersea Rise, London SW11 1HS Established 1594 Number of pupils 1109 Director of cricket Wayne White Professionals Adam London (Middlesex), Ben Clilverd (Cambridgeshire) Teams Boys: SeniorAB, U15AB, U14ABC, 13ABC, U12ABC, U11ABC. Girls: SeniorAB, U15AB, U14ABC, 13ABC, U12ABC, U11ABC Fixtures The school look to organise 10 fixtures per team. Weekend blocks against Kingston Grammar, Alleyn’s and St John’s Leatherhead form the big fixtures for the season Facilities Cricket is played at the main site and also the offsite facilities at Blagdons. There are outdoor nets at both sites and can host six games at one time across both. Indoor facilities are on the main site at Emanuel Club/county affiliation A very significant partnership programme with 32 schools in Wandsworth.

Primary ambitions project sees 300 primary aged pupils welcomed every

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Friday afternoon Best prospects Flora Rogers is part of the U18 Surrey high performance squad and is the senior girls captain.

Tom Verwey is in the U14 Middlesex high performance squad Cricketers of note Stuart Surridge (Surrey) Ian Payne (Surrey, Gloucestershire) Izzy Cannon (England) Nancy Hughes (Middlesex) Brief history The school first recorded captain Mr J Wheater was appointed in 1891. The school maintains excellent relationships with local schools such as Tiffin,

Latymer and Alleyn’s. The school was all boys until recent times with girls’ cricket only taking off in the last couple of years. The school offers bursaries and free places in the local area Cultural cricketers Tom Smith (rugby union) Finest moment on the field First XI winning the MCC game for the first time in 20+ years chasing down 193 with four overs to spare. Senior boys surpassed their record-breaking season winning 11 of 15 matches under the watchful eye of Dr Davis.

Senior girls came runners up in the

pupils in the right spot at the right time, with the right practice,” added White. “We With four former professional aim to improve every pupil by cricketers on their school one per cent in every session. coaching staff, Emanuel If they want it and bring the School possess “an right attitude, we’ll push embarrassment of riches”, them on. They set their own so says director of cricket standards in that.”

Wayne White.

Vilas worked mainly with The former Lancashire, the first team in 2025, while Leicestershire and Derbyshire Wayne White Director of cricket Cullen is now with the school allrounder is joined by expermanently. London is more Glamorgan wicketkeeper self-employed, working on a consultancy basis, Tom Cullen, former Middlesex batter Adam alongside his role at Richmond Cricket Club.

London and one-time Lancashire captain Dane “You could come in at year six and have the Vilas as part of a stacked cricketing staffroom. same contact hours with the same coaches Vilas was whisked away during the summer as the first team,” said White. “I don’t think to become Middlesex’s interim head coach, but there should be any differential at all. A lot of White hopes that he will return to Emanuel if he the 11 and 12-year-olds don’t know who Dane doesn’t take a full-time position at the county. is anyway! Our pupils don’t look at stuff like “It’s just about making sure we’re getting the

Surrey Cup falling short in the last over against Charterhouse School Recent progress Progression of girls cricket year on year has been very encouraging. The senior boys continued last year’s form with a spectacular record season. A cricket week was added into the calendar with a touring Midstream College (Pretoria) and Culford joining them for a two-day game which finished off the season Future plans New indoor sports hall net facilities, lightning and a new surface are incoming for the new academic year. The school are also looking at adding an ex-professional cricketer onto the coaching panel for a year round appointment Tours Dubai (2026)

that anymore; they’re being coached by a Test cricketer without really knowing.”

That work is seemingly paying off: the girls’ first team reached the county cup final, while one Emanuel pupil was the leading wicket-taker as Surrey’s under-18 side won the national girls’ title.

Off the field, though, the investment in a refurbished indoor school has been hugely significant, 20 years on from its construction.

“We’ve managed to get a new five-lane set-up in there, which has made a huge difference for us, it has really improved the lighting and flooring,” said White.

“So, we are really chuffed with it; it also allows us to do other sports in there and net at the same time. It is really useful for us – we actually have a climbing wall inside, and we’ve managed to set the net system up so we can do both at the same time. It has all been a real step forward.”

www.emanuel.org.uk • admissions@emanuel.org.uk • 020 8870 4171 thecricketer.com | 45

ASPIRATION CONNECTION EMPATHY Entry at Year 6, 7 and Sixth Form Co-educational Fee Assistance available

Next to Wandsworth Common 8 minute walk from Clapham Junction

Battersea Rise, London, SW11 1HS | www.emanuel.org.uk |

emanuel.school

EPSOM COLLEGE // ETON COLLEGE

EPSOM COLLEGE College Rd, Epsom KT17 4JQ Established 1855 Number of pupils 1143 Director of cricket Damian Shirazi Professionals Damian Shirazi (Hampshire Cricket Board), Lee Cothill, Tom Deighton (Dorset) Teams Boys: Sixteen sides from U12 to U18. Girls: Thirteen sides from U12 to U18 Fixtures There were 210 matches scheduled across 2025 Facilities Six cricket squares, two outdoor nets (six and eight lane), cricket-only indoor sports hall. Use Ashtead CC facilities for matches Club/county affiliation The college have a partnership with the Matt Homes’ In-Touch Cricket Academy and also let the Surrey girls pathway on site for the use of the facilities Best prospect There are over 50 pathway players with the school but Ralphie Albert is currently in the England U19 squad and has a contract with Surrey after debuting during the 2025 summer Cricketers of note Nat Sciver-Brunt

ETON COLLEGE Windsor SL4 6DW Established 1557 Number of pupils 1640 Master in charge Tim Roberts (Northamptonshire, Lancashire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14AB, 13ABC, U12ABCD. Girls: U12, U13 + indoor, U15 + indoor Fixtures There are 200+ external school fixtures and 100+ internal house matches. Each school fixture played at any level of ability and age is given the same importance

(England, Trent Rockets, The Blaze), Alice Davidson-Richards (England, Surrey, Northern Superchargers) Brief history Cricket has been played at Epsom since its inception.

The facilities have moved from the downs to the college site and grown significantly over the years. In the last five years the College has won five

national titles and eight county titles.

Director of cricket Damian Shirazi, leads a team of top coaches with a focus on cementing Epsom’s place as a leading cricketing school for boys and girls Cultural cricketers Jonny Maitland (TV presenter), Tony Fernandes (businessman)

Facilities Eton have 10 turf grounds, nine astro grounds, 16 astro nets, five cages for grass practice. They have a four-lane indoor school. There are plans to build a new sports centre which will cater for far more winter cricket with eight lanes Club/county affiliation The outreach department caters for all sports and schools in the local area and they host local school matches and eight a side outreach tournaments for local state schools that is organised by the pupils Cricketers of note Matthew Fleming (England, Kent),

Alex Loudon (England, Kent, Warwickshire), James Bruce (Hampshire), Aryaman Varma (Northamptonshire, Dubai Capitals) Brief history Sport has been central to the Eton curriculum for some time – the first ever recorded inter-school fixture is an Eton v Westminster cricket match in 1796. Come 1805 the first meeting with Harrow was played at Lord’s and the famous blue caps were introduced by 1831.

A first school tour of Australia was embarked upon in 1987/88 with Eton winning the U15 Lord’s Taverners National Cup in 1994. In 2024,

Finest moment on the field Winning four national titles (Boys U17, Boys U13, Girls U17, Girls U15) in 2024 Recent progress Epsom are most proud of the amount of fixtures played and the festivals hosted at the College. Progress in national competitions has shown the growth of the game What has changed in the last 10 years? Recent years have seen cricket enjoy a renaissance. With first-class coaching throughout the winter and summer months, Epsom encourage participation at all levels, driving up the quality of girls’ cricket and instilling a winning mentality among the elite Future plans The College will be looking to add further squares and also add hybrid cricket pitches. This new product will allow more turf matches to be played, increasing opportunities for Epsom and the wider community to use the pitches Tours Epsom took part in the Arch Trophy in the UAE in 2023 and 2025 (winning both). In 2026, the boys will tour South Africa and the girls are heading to Dubai Aryaman Varma won the Wisden school boy cricketer of the year Cultural cricketers Bernard Bosanquet (philosopher) Finest moment on the field Every time the college have over 20 cricket fixtures home and away on a Saturday boys play good competitive cricket in the correct, appropriate spirit Recent progress Eton continue to run well over 20 cricket teams who are coached and guided by excellent schoolmasters who are always looking to improve their skills.

The schoolmasters are supported by professional coaches who stick to the main sporting vision of participation, enjoyment and performance. Pitches and facilities continue to be upgraded by Lee Marshallsay and his grounds team which helps to provide great surfaces What has changed in the last 10 years? Cricket continues to flourish at Eton as efforts are made to align huge participation rates with two other key pillars of success: enjoyment and performance Future plans It is hoped that a new sports facility will increase participation over the winter thecricketer.com | 47

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

FELSTED SCHOOL

FELSTED SCHOOL Braintree Road, Dunmow, CM6 3LL Established 1564 Number of pupils 550 Director of cricket Jason Gallian Head of girls’ cricket Lissy Macleod Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15AB, U14AB Fixtures The highlight across a fixture list of nearly 100 is the boys and girls’ respective meetings with the MCC Facilities Four grass squares, 10 lane non-turf nets, two non-turf pitches and a five-lane indoor centre Club/county affiliation Essex CCC Best prospect Olivia Andrews is an emerging player for Essex women Cricketers of note JHWT Douglas (England, Essex), Derek Pringle (Essex, England), John Stephenson (Essex, Hampshire, England), Nick Knight (Essex, Warwickshire, England), Tim Phillips, Will Buttleman, Jess Olorenshaw (all Essex), Elliot Wilson (Worcester), Emma Jones (Surrey), Jordan Cox (Kent) Brief history Cricket has been played at Felsted since 1805, so perhaps

it’s no surprise that the school is recognised as one of the best in the country for the quintessentially English sport. Girls and boys are introduced to cricket in year three and it continues to be an important core sport, with many pupils taking the opportunity to represent the school in local, regional and national fixtures,

WORLD CLASS COACHING EDUCATION FACILITIES

with great success Cultural cricketers JHWT Douglas was also a gold medallist in boxing at London 1908 What sets the school apart?

Sport at Felsted is for everyone and the youngest cricketers are taught to develop their hand-eye co-ordination and learn the rules

and etiquette of the game. Cricket is an integral part of the sports programme and all pupils have the chance to represent Felsted in fixtures against other local and regional schools, with boys and girls of all abilities involved. Every year a match is played against an MCC team on the school’s famous main pitch, ‘The Front’ Finest moment on the field National T20 champions in 2004 and 2005, girls’ U15 indoor and outdoor national champions in 2017, and girls’ 1st XI National champions in 2019 Recent progress Participating in the East Anglia League for both boys and girls, continued development of girls cricket and bringing technology into the game with live streaming and online scoring Future plans A new sports hall floor has renovated the indoor hall into a first class facility Tours In March 2025, Felsted cricketers began the season in style with a tour to Sri Lanka for both male and female players which was the first joint overseas tour in the school’s history

• Outstanding Facilities • Elite Level Coaching • Opportunity for Excellence • Links with Kent CCC • Sport Scholarships

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

FOREST SCHOOL

FOREST SCHOOL Oakhurst Gardens, London E17 3PY Established 1834 Number of pupils 1500 Head of cricket Tomos Fowler Professional Ranjit Bhanabhai, Louise Poulter, Mike Broughton Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB, 13ABC, U12ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U15, U14, U13, U12 Fixtures Forest School hosts approximately 140 fixtures each year.

The MCC take on both the boys and girls 1st XIs. Post exams, touring teams from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa and India visit for matches Facilities Five-lane indoor sports hall, two lane recently refurbished indoor cricket centre, three outdoor artificial nets, four cricket pitches and three roll on cages for centre wicket practices. A multi-sport pavilion is being built at the playing fields Club/county affiliation In winter, head of cricket Tomos Fowler runs

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

an outreach program on behalf of Forest School. The program invites cricketers from local state schools to attend weekly three-hour cricket training sessions. Currently, Forest School has over 20 cricketers selected for Essex and Middlesex teams, and also provides CPD coaching sessions

for school staff and parents Best prospects Areeb Rashid a top order batter and leg-spinner who has represented Essex 2nd XI and was a substitute fielder for England against West Indies. Jeevan Sing Kathuria is an off spinner and destructive middle order batter. Prisha Bedi represents

XI cricket, we still play in the classic whites and red balls for some fixtures, and Over the last 12 months, then we play some games Forest School have shifted in coloured kit with a new all their teams into coloured pink ball or white ball from kit. The move has helped to both ends, just bringing it achieve better alignment a bit more in line with what between their boys and pathways are doing, with girls programs and helped what the kids see on the encourage more students to big screen.” play cricket.

This is a unique move and Tomos Fowler, the school’s Tomos Fowler Head of cricket Forest believe they are one head of cricket, explained: of the first schools in the country to put all “We’ve done that to ensure that there’s parity their teams, apart from the boys first team, in across the boys and girls programme, because coloured kit. it looked like on fixture days that we were the To grow participation across the school, boys and the girls separately, because the girls they introduced an extra midweek session, were playing coloured kit for obvious reasons. and it has borne immediate fruit. The girls “We play a lot of T20 cricket for the younger section, especially, has developed massively in ones, and then 35 to 40-over games for every recent times. age team level. But then obviously in first

“Over the last two years, the girls’ numbers have grown massively in the school,” Fowler said. “We were up to about 70 to 80 girls in Year 7 and 8 playing cricket, so we were playing A’s and B’s, which was the first time the school’s done it, so that’s brilliant. I think the biggest part of the programme’s definitely been on the girls’ side of things, and we’ve had a lot of success there over the last few years.”

Amu Surenkumar, who attended the school, has been a source of inspiration and in Fowler’s words “something really good for them to look up to” after a summer in which she has played for Warwickshire and was in the Manchester Originals squad.

Individual success has underpinned the progress of the programme, Manveer Kathuria scored a century in the 1st XI as an Under-14, Areeb Rashid made two T20 centuries in the same day and Jeevan Kathuria made five consecutive hundreds in as many games.

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Essex Academy. Manveer Kathuria, EPP cricketer at Essex, is a skilful leg-spinner Cricketers of note James Foster, Nasser Hussain (both Essex, England) Brief history Cricket is a wellestablished sport at Forest School although in recent years there has been increased focus and investment in growing cricket and building the school’s reputation. The design and implementation of the cricket programme at Forest School over the last few years has been instrumental in Forest School’s growth and great recent success Finest moment on the field The U15 team winning the ESCA National Cup final in June 2022 Recent progress Many girls have been selected onto regional pathway programmes for the first time.

Furthermore, the depth across the B teams for the lower school has improved and they are consistently competitive against A teams. All teams play in coloured kit (except 1st XI boys) Future plans Plans are currently progressing for a new, purpose-built sports facility at The Park - Forest School’s 25-acre dedicated sports ground. The proposed development will include changing rooms, toilets, storage, and a viewing area, significantly enhancing the infrastructure for school sport.

FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE

FRAMLINGHAM COLLEGE College Road, Framlingham, Woodbridge IP13 9EY Established 1864 Number of pupils 570 Director of sport Chris Gange Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17 Cup XI, Albert XI, Junior 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABCD, U11ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U15, U13ABC, U11AB. Mixed: U9ABCD Fixtures Of 30 matches, the notable fixtures include MCC; Forty Club; Gents of Suffolk; Gents of Essex; Quilibets Cricket Club; and Framlingham Cricket festival against Seaford College, Stamford School and Eastbourne College Facilities Nine indoor nets, eight artificial nets, 12 grass nets, five cricket grounds with cage nets for middle practices, 13 grass wicket pitches (plus various mini grounds, including Flicx wicket) and hockey astro for tape ball cricket Club/county affiliation Educational partnerships exist with Northamptonshire CCC and Suffolk

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Cricket. Essex have used the college facility for Regional EPP sessions.

Suffolk Schools County Cricket Finals Day , Suffolk State School PE and School Sport Partnership Cricket Finals and an MCC Foundation Hub Programme for local sports clubs and state schools, are all run out of the college Best prospects Ralph Reader

is part of the Suffolk Cricket U13 programme, Felix Norris is currently part of Suffolk EPP and Essex Cricket Regional EPP, and Reilly Borges and Annabelle Royall have been part of the Norfolk Cricket pathway Cricketers of note David Larter (Northamptonshire & England), Ashley Cowan (Essex & England tour to West Indies), Herbert Wilson

could open the door for the College to host high-profile fixtures, like Arundel Castle who hosted South Africa v Zimbabwe this summer.

“With Framingham Castle on the right and the school with its impressive clock tower, chapel and statue of Prince Albert on the left The Front would probably be one of the most attractive cricket grounds in the world”,

Future development of cricket at Framlingham College could create the “most attractive cricket ground in the world”.

Cricket at the College has been a prominent sporting pillar of the independent school for nearly 160 years.

Chris Gange Director of sport And that status would be enhanced by adding a pitch says Gange. to ‘The Front’, transforming it into a venue “For our pupils and local cricket clubs, every for matches. match played here presents new opportunities Built in 1864 as Suffolk’s memorial to Queen to develop key cricketing skills, and it is always Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, the Grade rewarding to see young players develop their II listed Victorian-Gothic red-brick school overlooks the 12th Century Framlingham Castle. understanding of the game’s complexities while also forging friendships and memories.

In-between, sits The Mere and six acres of “Framlingham College delivers an exceptional manicured grounds called ‘The Front’, flanked cricket provision regardless of age or ability, by views of the College and the castle. with many pupils pursuing the sport beyond the Director of cricket Chris Gange believes this

(Sussex), Norman Borrett (Essex), Robert Newton, Freddie Heldreich (both Northamptonshire), Michael Pegg (Finland), Herbert Soar (Middlesex), Eric Rash (Egypt), Edward Inskip (Chile) Brief history Cricket was the first sport to be played at Framlingham College in 1865. Regular school fixtures followed as well as hosting Kenya, Pakistan Under 25s and Gloucestershire CCC. The Quilibets’ CC (made up of College staff, students, Old Boys, friends of the school) celebrated its centenary in 2025 Cultural cricketers Ed Sheeran, Charlie Simpson, Laura Wright, Simon Law (all musicians), Sir James Paice (former MP), Keito Okamota (model, singer), David Bull (TV presenter), Henry Jackman (composer) Finest moment on the field Robert Newton becoming the first schoolboy to register a double hundred against the MCC in 2007, and Reilly Borges hitting 128 off 57 balls including 12 sixes v Forty Club Recent progress Three staff have qualified to be ECB League umpires Future plans Development plans to build a cricket pitch on “The Front” at the College Tours Sri Lanka (2026)

College at club, university or elite level.

“Learning to manage success and setbacks alike is a crucial part of the experience, and it is always rewarding to see young players develop their understanding of the game’s complexities while forging friendships and memories along the way.”

This year, Framlingham College launched its 2025 Cricket Heritage Fundraiser to raise £135,000 for new prep and senior school cricket nets and a new Prep School pavillion.

As part of the campaign, Simon Roche, head of Framlingham College prep school, completed a 100-mile ultramarathon - running from Lord’s back to the prep school in 24-hours. The College’s team of cyclists also completed the same 100-mile route.

Those interested in investing in the facilities can support by setting up a smaller regular gift, donating a one-off gift or by making a significant donation in exchange for recognition through naming rights of various facilities.

It is absolutely certain that Framlingham College, who are bathed in history, cannot be accused of wishing to stand still.

www.framlinghamcollege.co.uk • admissions@framlinghamcollege.co.uk thecricketer.com | 51

A high-performance culture for boys and girls with serious ambitions.

•

Only school in East Anglia to have been in the Cricketer’s Top 100 schools for cricket every year since its inception.

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Highly trained coaching staff (including staff with ECB Specialist Coach qualifications Level 4 and Advanced Coach Level 3).

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Wide and varied fixture list across a range of teams and abilities across a variety of formats including 100, T20, 40:40, 50:50 and 2 day formats.

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Play against representative sides including the MCC (both men and women sides), Universities, Clubs, Touring Clubs and Schools and participated in the Eagles’ Nest Independent Schools League.

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Entry to the various national cup competitions across formats for 100; T20 and 35:35.

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Regularly host county programme training with Suffolk and Essex Cricket, summer programme matches and we are very proud to be the regional MCC Foundation Hub.

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Framlingham players are part of pathways in Essex CCC, Northamptonshire CCC, Suffolk CCC, Norfolk CCC, Cambridgeshire CCC.

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Formal educational partnership with Northamptonshire County Cricket Club where pupils have a direct and clear potential pathway into professional cricket.

GEORGE WATSON’S COLLEGE // GRESHAM’S SCHOOL

GEORGE WATSON’S COLLEGE 69 Colinton Rd, Edinburgh EH10 5EG Established 1741 Number of pupils 2300 Master in charge Neil McCallum Professional Oli Hairs (Scotland) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, 13ABC, U12AB, U11AB. Girls: U18, U15, U13AB, U12AB Girls’ cricket Teams play local sides in Edinburgh and in the National U15 and U18 Girls Scottish Cup competitions Fixtures Notable fixture is the annual MCC game Facilities Four grass wicket squares; two artificial wickets; 10 artificial nets; four indoor nets.

Club/county affiliation The MCCF HUB which will be held in the school games hall for a sixth year, attended by over 30 pupils from local state schools. The school runs an outreach programme through a local charity called Sport Start. The charity pays for a coach to deliver sessions in seven local schools over 10 weeks,

GRESHAM’S SCHOOL Cromer Rd, Holt NR25 6EA Established 1555 Number of pupils 540 Head of cricket Peter Free Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15AB, U14AB. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd Fixtures Blocks revolve around weekend against other schools including Ipswich, Framlingham, Norwich, Royal Hospital, The Leys.

Boys also have MCC and I Zingari CC which are highlights, and they play in a three-day festival at the end of year.

Girls play Cambridge University and cup games Facilities Four grass squares, one astro square, 12 grass nets, six astro nets and a sports hall Club/county affiliation Gresham’s are closely linked to Fakenham, Sheringham, Cromer, Horsford Cricket Clubs in local area. School hosts Norfolk Cricket Hub and county age group fixtures, as well as Norfolk EPP Best prospects JC Malherbe and Theo Chipperfield are part of the

covering more than 300 pupils. Pupils then attend a further session on a Friday after school and are invited to local clubs’ summer camps Best prospects Gabriella Fontela is the leading female prospect and plays for the Scotland U19s.

Oli Stones is in the Scotland U17 squad and is a talented left handed batter Cricketers of note Neil McCallum, Ewan Chalmers(both Scotland), Dewald Nel (Scotland, Kent, Worcestershire), Alasdair Evans (Scotland, Derbyshire, MCC), Sarah Bryce (Scotland, The Blaze, Welsh Fire) Kathryn Bryce (Scotland, The Blaze, Trent Rockets) Brief history George Watson’s College is one of the largest single-campus 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, boy’s hockey and cricket, the first school to do so Finest moment on the field Winning the Scottish Schools T20 Cup in 2015 and 2022 What has changed in the last 10 years? Far more pupils are playing cricket than 10 years ago and George Watson’s are now able to run weekly girls fixtures with other Edinburgh schools. More girls play in boys teams

at each age group. An annual girls cricket tour to the North East of England is run and boys and girls teams are entered into the National U15 and U18 Cups. A senior tour travels to Barbados every three years Future plans The school square at Craiglockhart was recently re-laid and was used for the first time during school matches in the summer of 2025

systems at Norfolk and Northants EPP. Will Carter is also on the Norfolk pathway and EPP. Finley Spinks plays for Derbyshire U14s and U15s. Oli Carter is part of the Norfolk pathway and strong top-order batter Georgia Demetriou is part of the London and South East pathway

Cricketers of note Ben Wilcox, Charlie Hood and Arthur Wilcox play for Norfolk and won the NCCA 50over trophy in 2024 Brief history Holding an enviable position in the heart of the School, Gresham’s cricket is thriving in 2025 with over 200 pupils playing regularly.

With cups and block fixtures there is always a game for everyone to enjoy on the main square each day in the summer and testament to the hard work of the grounds team. The last five years have seen wins at the U16 national competition, finalists at the U15 girls competition and numerous semi-final and quarter final appearances Cultural cricketers James Dyson (inventor) Ben and Tom Youngs (rugby union) Finest moment on the field In 2021 the school won the Inspire Sport Trophy, beating Shrewsbury in the final Recent progress Nearly all staff hold a basic foundation coaching course.

Winter cricket programmes provide over 20 hours of 1-1 access and group coaching to all ages and both boys and girls, running from 6.30am through to 9pm. This has been key to significant individual improvement of players this season Future plans Looking to build an indoor cricket centre within the next three-four years and provide an indoor space for the rest of Norfolk Tours Sri Lanka (2026) thecricketer.com | 53

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS HABERDASHERS’ BOYS’ SCHOOL Butterfly Ln, Elstree, Radlett, Borehamwood WD6 3AF Established 1690 Number of pupils 1,500 Director of cricket Jamie Hewitt Professional Ben Howgego Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, 15ABCD, 14ABCD, 13ABCD, 12ABCDEF Fixtures The school plays over 260 games each year, with notable fixtures against Merchant Taylors’, Haileybury, MCS, Bedford and Abingdon. They also play matches against MCC and Fraser Bird Facilities The school has three grass wickets, two astro wickets, nine astro training nets and six grass nets, as well as a two-lane indoor cricket centre.

Club/county affiliation Middlesex and Hertfordshire Best prospect Atharv Sharma is a top-order batter and left-arm spinner, who represented Middlesex’s second team at 15 and impressed at the Bunbury Festival.

Cricketers of note Richard Yeabsley

HABERDASHERS’ MONMOUTH SCHOOLS Almshouse Street Monmouth NP25 3XP Established 1614 Number of pupils 1,100 Director of cricket Callum Bassett‑Jones Professional James Boiling (Surrey, Durham), Andrew Jones, Steve James (both Glamorgan) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC | Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14, U13, U12 Girls’ cricket This is the school’s first year as a co-educational institution, and the girls’ programme has completely mirrored the boys’ with its coaching structure, fielding five girls’ sides consistently, and planning to mirror boys’ touring opportunities Fixtures The school plays more than 130 fixtures across all age groups, including a two-day fixture with Solihull and, in the past, a fourteam 100-ball Welsh Schools Day competition at Sophia Gardens.

They also play against Kimbolton, New Hall, Victoria College, Jersey, 54 | thecricketer.com

HABERDASHERS’ BOYS’ SCHOOL // HABERDASHERS’ MONMOUTH SCHOOLS

(Middlesex CCC), Gavin Baker (Northants CCC) Brief history Sport is an integral part of school life at Haberdashers, with the ability to play both elite and participation cricket. Cricket is a priority sport with over 260 games in place to cover the demand from 325 players. Cricket begins in the pre-prep and continues right through to upper sixth.

Cultural cricketers Dean Wilson (cricket journalist), Manoj Badale (co owner Rajasthan Royals), Sacha Baron Cohen (comedian & actor),

Glamorgan Academy, MCC, Malvern College, Bromsgrove School and King’s Worcester Facilities They have five grass squares, one artificial match wicket, five grass nets and a bay of six artificial nets, with an artificial fielding area.

They also have multiple roll-on nets and fielding nets, and indoors

Matt Lucas (actor, writer, comedian, TV presenter) Finest moment on the field In 2022, the school defeated St Albans in a two-day game, in the final over in the second day. Ashish Padki completed the game with match figures of 10 for 70. In 2024 against Bancrofts, Haberdashers scored 279 in 20 overs, with Felix Hart scoring 105 in 50 balls.

Recent progress In the last 12 months, they have integrated more girls into winter and summer training and playing programmes. The school has more than 80 boys in Years 7 and

8 turning out each week for training games. They have also reintroduced tours at Year 8 (Jersey), Year 9 (Epsom festival), Year 10 (Dubai) and at senior level (India, Sri Lanka), also introducing cricket scholars in Year 7 and an emerging player programme from Years 8 to 13.

Future plans There are plans to expand the indoor nets and to build a new pavilion.

Tours Jersey (Year 8), Epsom Festival (Year 9), ARCH Tournament in Dubai (Year 10), India and Sri Lanka (seniors)

have two sports halls, one with four net lanes Club/county affiliation Glamorgan, as well as local cricket clubs Monmouth, Abergavenny, Llanarth, Usk, Chepstow, Wormelow, Brockhampton and Newport Best prospects Jacob Blades and Zac Williams are both on the

Glamorgan Academy and have represented Wales U18 Cricketers of note Steve James, Henry Hurle, Jeremy Lawlor, Andrew Jones, Huw Waters (all Glamorgan) Brief history Although the schools were founded in 1614, the first mention of cricket was in The Monmothian magazine in 1882.

Former Essex batsman Sonny Avery became the first cricket professional in 1960, with former Somerset allrounder Graham Burgess taking over in 1980 Cultural cricketers Anu Mohindru (former chair, Essex CCC), Eddie Butler, Hallam Amos, Richard Parks, Keith Jarrett (all rugby) Finest moment on the field The school’s U17 side, including Steve James, won the Barclays Bank Schools Cricket Cup in 1983 Recent progress The school now boasts more than 30 cricketers who are involved in representative boys’ sides, and 20 girls Future plans They plan to build on the success of the girls’ cricket programme; it has been the fastest growing sport in their schools Tours Sri Lanka, 2027

HAILEYBURY

HAILEYBURY

Club/county affiliation A club day is planned for 2026 along with a new role Haileybury Hertford to expand cricket outreach SG13 7NU in the area Best prospects Omar Established 1862 Shah, son of ex-England Number of pupils 920 Rupes Kitzinger batsman Owais, has caught Director of cricket Director of cricket the eye with both bat and Rupes Kitzinger ball. Leo Davis, Ben Taylor Professional Izzy Collis and James Mitchell are all with (Sussex), Carl Igolen-Robinson county academies (France) Cricketers of note Sam Billings Teams Boys: 22 teams from 1st XI (Kent, England), Michael Levitt down to U12C | Girls: 16 teams from (Netherlands) 1st XI to U13E Brief history The school’s Girls’ cricket There has been a big professionals have included Graham investment in girls’ cricket, and the Barlow, Peter Ellis, Jeremy Lloyds school are proud to have a girls’ 3rd XI and more recently, GP Howarth, Nic playing matches to a good level Pothas, MJ Cawdron and DLS van Fixtures The school plays around Bunge. Sir Don Bradman visited the 250 fixtures, including an annual twopavilion and bequeathed his Baggy day game with Cheltenham that has Green, which lay in the Long Room been in place since 1893. Both boys for many years and Haileybury has and girls’ XIs play MCC on Speech now loaned it to Cricket Australia Day in front of 2,500 spectators Cultural cricketers Jamie George, Facilities The school has 10 grounds Nick Isiekwe (both rugby), Oscar complemented with two seven-lane Piastri (Formula One), Clement outdoor facilities built by Durant, Attlee (politics) along with six net cages, nine hybrid Finest moment on the field During wickets across five squares and three the 2025 season, both the boys’ 1st indoor lanes used all winter

and 2nd XIs, on neighbouring pitches, scored 283 in T20 matches with two centurions on each pitch Recent progress The school is proud of its grounds, while they have also developed their own EPP level to bridge the gap to high-performance cricketers

Future plans The school is planning for a bespoke indoor cricket facility under new leadership, an ‘arena of dreams’, and the aforementioned outreach role to develop cricket in the surrounding area Tours Cape Town 2026

Passion.

Determination.

Excellence.

“Here at King Edward’s we are extremely proud of our Cricket programme. No matter a student’s ability, gender or experience within the sport, they have access to region leading facilities and where equality and enjoyment are at the heart of everything we do.”

AD Penn - Head of Cricket To discover all King Edward VI School has to offer please visit

kes.school

Propel your ambitions with all-year-round training, expert coaches, superb facilities, and opportunities to compete at regional and national level. Scholarships and High Performance Programme available for both boys and girls cricket.

Haileybury is a top co-educational boarding and day school for 11–18 year olds, rated Excellent in all areas by the ISI. admissions@haileybury.com

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

HAMPTON SCHOOL Hanworth Rd, Hampton TW12 3HD Established 1556 Number of pupils 1,230 Head of cricket Ami Banerjee Professional Chris Harrison Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI. U16AB, U15ABCD, U14ABCD, U13ABC, U12ABCD Fixtures They have 200 fixtures across the year, where the 1st XI play 24 matches including declaration games, 50-over games and two-day games.

MEET THE PROFESSIONAL

Notable fixtures include Eton, Harrow, Whitgift, St Paul’s, KCS Dulwich, Merchant Taylors’, Reeds, RGS Guildford, Tiffin, Brighton College and Winchester College Facilities The cricket facilities at Hampton include six indoor nets, seven outdoor astro nets, seven grass wickets and one astro wicket.

They also have three outdoor grass wickets for training with cages, which cricketers use during their training sessions. The indoor facility is used throughout the year and has six nets and a space for indoor game Club/county affiliation MCC, Surrey, Middlesex, Hampshire Best prospect 1st XI captain Anuj Srivastav is playing for Hampshire Academy.

Cricketers of note Akbar Ansari (Worcestershire), Zafar Ansari (Surrey, England), Toby Roland-Jones (Middlesex, England), Blake Cullen (Middlesex, England U19), Naavya Sharma (Middlesex) Brief history Cricket started at Hampton in 1874 and continued to flourish, producing a number of professional and international cricketers. Zafar Ansari and Toby Roland-Jones graduated and played for England, while Blake Cullen and

HAMPTON SCHOOL

Naavya Sharma have played for England Under-19 more recently Finest moment on the field The school has won various junior events, most recently winning the U12 Middlesex Cup; U17 and U13 sides have reached the final of the ESCA National Cup Recent progress The past 12 months have seen massive number of boys participating across all

“We teach them on how to train properly, what to do if without a coach there. A lot In a world of boundaries, of our work will be working in yorkers, reverse ramps and pairs so they’re dependent the googly, it is easy to forget on each other rather than a how some of the best players coach driving it all the time. in the world reached a point “So for example at the end where those skills became of our programme when you second nature. see our seniors train they are Ultimately, they can very independent, they know be delivered thanks to they have to do throw-downs, mastering the fundamentals Chris Harrison Professional they’ve got to bowl on the and ensuring they are side and hit a target. There is not a culture of just technically proficient. nets here. We want them to train properly, and But convincing the next generation that tread we teach them and improve. those hard yards can be tricky. It is one of the “Constant messaging really: if you want to get challenges faced by Hampton School cricket better this is how you’re going to do it. We’re coach Chris Harrison, who regards technique as going to help you do that and we’ll engage you a key element of the programme. that way. The reward is you’ll improve, you will “We educate them on how to train and how to get better and enjoy the game, you’ll build your get better,” he tells The Cricketer.

age-groups; cricketers are not only available to play all matches but also ready to work hard on their techniques in the nets during their lunch time or after school. They now field four senior teams and also have four teams in all other age-groups Future plans The school aims to work with cricketers at local schools to provide them with more facilities to develop their game

confidence. We explain the importance.”

Described as one of the school’s long-serving coaches, who has rubbed shoulders with Andrew Flintoff, Graeme Swann and Mark Chilton during his cricket journey, Harrison has found his outlook on lending his knowledge to others as he has developed. He now prefers a selective, hands-off approach.

“It is about not smothering them as a coach,” he explains. “If you do well in a game, it is they who have done well. If they’ve done badly, the coach tries to facilitate them improving.

“If they score a fifty it is all credit to them. There is no coach sitting by the side patting themselves on the back. It is all about the players.

“We have a philosophy of if a player isn’t doing that well, they will get more coaching time than a lad who is top of his game, scoring lots of runs so we’ll look at players who are lacking the most confidence. That is who we’ll spend the most time with during the season.”

www.hamptonschool.org.uk • Admissions@hamptonschool.org.uk • 020 8979 9273 56 | thecricketer.com

ACADEMIC & CRICKETING EXCELLENCE 2025 Highlights U17 ECB National Champions U13 ESCA National Champions U12 Middlesex Champions Professional-standard pitches and expert coaching provided.

Sports Scholarships available.

www.hamptonschool.org.uk

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

HARROW SCHOOL

HARROW SCHOOL 5 High St, Harrow HA1 3HP Established 1572 Number of pupils 830 Master in charge Dan Escott Director of cricket Mark Ramprakash Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U16ABC, U15ABCDE, U14ABCDEF Fixtures They provide circa 200 external fixtures and 60 internal (House) fixtures for all age-groups and ability-ranges throughout the summer term, trying to expose all sides to a wide variety of opposition, including other schools, universities, county academies, nomadic adult and touring sides Facilities They have nine grounds that are exclusively used for cricket and are all served by excellent pavilions, digital scoreboards and sightscreens. Players train on grass squares every training session of the summer term, while there is also a two-lane purpose-built indoor school for training during the winter months, which includes

access to Bola and Merlyn bowling machines, Pitch Vision, QuickScore scoreboards and many other useful cricket gadgetries Club/county affiliation MCC Foundation, ACE Academy, feeder school festivals Cricketers of note Jafer Chohan (Yorkshire, Southern Brave), Sam Northeast (Kent, Hampshire), Nick Compton (Middlesex, Somerset, England), Gary Ballance (Derbyshire, Yorkshire, England), Robbie White (Middlesex), Rob Taylor (Leicestershire) Glen Querl and Anshuman Rath (Hong

Holistic education for boys and girls age 4-18. Boarding from age 10

Visit us

Kong), Robin Marlar (Sussex), ARB Neame (Kent), Tony Pigott (Sussex & Surrey) Brief history Cricket has long played a major part in the life of the school.

From 1850 to 1939 this was largely due to the social significance of the Eton match at Lord’s, part of the ‘London Season’. The first recorded match in 1805 gained some publicity from the presence in the Harrow team of the poet, Byron. He was no cricketer Cultural cricketers Lord Byron, Sir Terence Rattigan (playwright) Finest moment on the field Last

year, the 1st XI won the Cowdrey Cup, and the U15s won the national T20 Cup at Arundel Castle Future plans The school are expanding their work with the local community and use cricket to connect with and serve the local area. For the last two winters, they have started to send coaches into local primary schools to run weekly cricket clubs for the Year 5 and 6 pupils, before helping to link the pupils up with local cricket clubs ahead of the start of the summer season. They ran two primary-school tournaments this year

BELONG • BELIEVE • BECOME Located in glorious Dorset countryside, Clayesmore is a hub of cricketing excellence.

Join us for our Open Morning on Saturday 7th March 2026, enjoy a tour of the school, meet our friendly staff and learn more about Christ College Brecon.

OUTSTANDING COACHING YEAR ROUND CRICKET PROGRAMME STUNNING CRICKET GROUNDS Clayesmore is an all through school offering sports scholarships at Y5, Y7, Y9 & Y11

Contact: admissions@clayesmore.com

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admissions@christcollegebrecon.com

IPSWICH SCHOOL

IPSWICH SCHOOL 25 Henley Rd, Ipswich IP1 3SG Established 1399 Number of pupils 800 Head of cricket Nicky Boje Professional Douglas Hondo Teams Boys: 17 teams | Girls: 13 Girls’ cricket Recent victories in national competitions highlight the good work being done at Ipswich, while there are also plans for a girls’ team to form part of an upcoming tour of Sri Lanka.

Esmae MacGregor’s success as the second-highest wicket-taker in this year’s women’s T20 Blast has given pupils a role model to follow in the professional game Fixtures The school plays 170 fixtures, with a notable match against MCC Facilities The school has five fields with grass pitches, 10 grass nets, five astro nets, two permanent indoor nets and five indoor nets in the sports hall. They also use Copdock Cricket Club’s astro nets and have Notcutts, where there is lots of space for

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

softball games Club/county affiliation Copdock Cricket Club, Suffolk Cricket; the school supports the YMCA charity’s work with asylum seekers from Afghanistan with cricket facilities Best prospect Evie Booker is in the Essex academy and has played 2nd XI fixtures for Essex. Ollie Burle is playing for Suffolk Men’s side and in the

Warwickshire age-group set-up Cricketers of note Josh Rymell, Esmae MacGregor (both Essex), Sir Vincent Strudwick (Essex and England) Brief history Ipswich School has a proud cricket history, with the first competitive match played back in 1859, and the school hosting Minor Counties fixtures in addition to

provides a direct link to the professional game. Many students also benefit from Good role models are key for strong ties with Suffolk any young cricketer.

Cricket, where they gain At Ipswich School, current valuable experience. players don’t have to look far.

But it’s not just connections With former South Africa that set Ipswich apart. The international Nicky Boje school fosters a culture of serving as head of cricket, maturity, independence, and alumni carving out and responsibility in its careers in the professional Nicky Boje Head of cricket players, giving equal weight game, Ipswich pupils are to both the boys’ and girls’ surrounded by inspiration. programmes. That ethos has stayed with alumni Alongside Dougie Hondo, the former like MacGregor, who continues to inspire the Zimbabwean international, the school’s next generation at her old school. cricketing future is firmly in capable hands.

“A lot of our younger girls have been to Essex Old Ipswichians Esmae MacGregor and games and had a chat with Esmae,” says Boje.

Charlie Bennett have already made their mark “It’s really nice to see that connection between with Essex, while Evie Booker and Ollie Burle are older players and our upcoming talent. set to follow in their footsteps.

“There are great stories to share, and Ipswich’s proximity to Essex, combined Esmae’s happy to come back and pass on her with the school’s close relationship with experience. Those who’ve had success here Chris Silverwood, Essex’s director of cricket,

its own matches. The school has developed professional cricketers, minor county players, employs notable cricketers as professional coaches, and has won national titles.

Finest moment on the field The U18 girls’ team has won both the 100ball competition at Lord’s and the Schoolsportsmag T20 competition.

Recent progress The school is proud of having more pupils participate in playing cricket than ever before, especially hardball cricket. Several pupils in sixth form have earned coaching certificates, while teachers have been upskilled as coaches and umpires.

Future plans The school are looking to build more astro-turf nets, while they are also busy upgrading existing gym facilities.

Tours Dubai (2023), Abu Dhabi (2024), Sri Lanka (2026)

always remember where they came from.”

Success stories like MacGregor and Booker are matched by the achievements of the current teams.

Ipswich’s girls have lifted silverware including the U13 national indoor title at Lord’s, while the U15 and U18 sides reached national finals and semi-finals in 2025. The boys have also enjoyed plenty of success at county and regional levels.

The school’s squads operate like well-oiled machines, benefiting from one-on-one coaching, small group sessions, and tailored strength and conditioning programmes to develop pupils both as cricketers and athletes.

Over the 2025 season, Ipswich teams played around 170 fixtures, combining competitiveness with broad participation.

“There’s a lot of opportunity for growth if you want to explore cricket as a career in the future,” adds Boje.

“We’re results-driven, but we also focus on nurturing everyone’s love of the game.”

www.ipswich.school • admissions@ipswich.school • 01473 408328 thecricketer.com | 59

Creating Extraordinary Cricket

JOHN LYON SCHOOL // KIMBOLTON SCHOOL

JOHN LYON SCHOOL Middle Rd, Harrow HA2 0HN Established 1876 Number of pupils 866 Head of cricket Chris Peploe Professional Chris Peploe (Middlesex) Teams Boys: 14 teams: U12-U19.

Girls’: Five teams: U12-U14 Girls’ cricket John Lyon are hugely proud that every girl joining the school has access to playing, training and outstanding coaching. They have five teams from U12-U14 this year with regular weekly cricket training, with opportunities to play in competitive matches. This season they took 12 girls on our first-ever girls’ cricket tour to Hampshire Fixtures The Annual Cricket Week, the highlight of the school’s summer term, includes the annual match against the MCC Facilities At John Lyon they have three cricket squares, one astro wicket and three indoor nets. As part of the Harrow Family of Schools, they are able to utilise their net facilities too and use a local cricket club for additional cricket facilities Club/county affiliation Links with Harrow Borough who use their facilities to play matches and each year the school host both the County Plate Finals (U12-U14) and the Borough Cup Finals (U12-U15) which provide opportunities for state school cricket. They also donate any surplus cricket

equipment to a local state school Best prospect Jack Ellis, 1st XI captain for 2025, is a tall left-arm seamer who can generate pace, bounce, and movement Cricketers of note Kabir Toor (Middlesex CCC & England U18), Ali Fraser (Middlesex CCC & Essex CCC) Brief history Cricket is one of the school’s four major sports and, while individual talent varies across age groups, inclusivity remains central. The former governor and managing director of cricket at Middlesex, Angus Fraser, coached here, helping the U14s win the Lord Taverners What sets the school apart? The school has toured the UK since 1990 and South Africa biennially for over 20 years. Hosting over 100 fixtures annually, highlights include Cricket Week, matches against MCC and Frogs CC, and their festival of sport, featuring the Director of Sport XI vs Head of Cricket XI Finest moment on the field The U15s reached the County Cup semi-final Recent progress Cricket remains an optional sport but participation has continued to rise. That speaks volumes about the culture built at John Lyon, where cricket is valued, enjoyed,and chosen by students Future plans The renovation of the sports pavilion, transforming it into a vibrant and welcoming hub for players, coaches, and supporters alike Tours South Africa (2026)

KIMBOLTON SCHOOL Kimbolton House, Kimbolton, Huntingdon PE28 0EA Established 1600 Number of pupils 720 Head of cricket Matt Gilbert Professional Alex Tudor Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12AB | Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB Girls’ cricket As the girls’ programme moves forward, the school are hoping to add MCC and alumnae fixtures to add to the fixture card in future.

Fixtures Kimbolton regularly hosts a Men’s MCC XI, the XL Club and touring sides. The 1st XI also features in an annual festival with Monmouth School, Victoria College, Jersey, and New Hall School, hosted on a rotational basis. Oundle School, The Perse School and Oakham School are examples of regular opponents across both boys’ and girls’ schedules Facilities The school has four indoor nets, eight outdoor artificial nets, two covered grass squares with pavilions, four artificial strips, four full rollout Flix wickets and three bowling machines, including a Merlyn machine Club/county affiliation Northamptonshire CCC, CricketEast, Kimbolton CC, Hunts County Best prospect Sister-and-brother combination Jess and Zac Taylor both represent county sides externally. Anais Bonnaud, Emilia

Doughty and Zoe Higgett are others to look out for Cricketers of note Tom Huggins (Northamptonshire) Brief history In the early part of the 20th century, regular matches were played against University of Cambridge colleges. The appointment of Jack Hobbs (not yet knighted) in the 1930s as the school’s cricket professional had a profoundly positive impact on Kimbolton School cricket. Mr Hobbs scored his final century in the Staff v Pupils cricket match in the late 1940s. The girls’ 1st XI played their debut fixture v Stamford School in 2022 Cultural cricketers Kimbolton has hosted Alex Tudor’s PCA England Legends XI with Mark Ramprakash, Jonathan Trott, Samit Patel, Devon Malcolm, Chris Tremlett, Paul Nixon, Alistair Brown, Owais Shah and Glen Chappell among the visiting squad Finest moment on the field Joshua Smith hit a school-record 11 centuries in 2018. A last ball, two-wicket victory against the MCC in 2021 was another high point Future plans The school is pursuing additional options to extend the programme for their 1st XI girls, including an MCC XI fixture, also seeking regular games versus local state schools, or organisations such as the Essex Boys’ and girls’ clubs Tours Netherlands (2027) thecricketer.com | 61

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL, SOUTHAMPTON // KING EDWARD’S SCHOOL, BIRMINGHAM

KING EDWARD VI SCHOOL, SOUTHAMPTON

Ground.

Club/county affiliation Official education partner for Hampshire CCC; Hampshire’s boys county performance pathway use Wilton Rd, Southampton Wellington Sports Ground SO15 5UQ Alex Penn for their fixtures, and the Head of cricket girls county performance Established 1553 pathway use the Hill Lane Number of pupils 970 site for their fixtures. Local clubs, Head of cricket Alex Penn Hampshire Hawks City Cricket Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, Academy and Wicketz Academy also U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABC use the Hill Lane campus. The school | Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, also offers its facilities to the MCC U13ABCD, U12ABCD Foundation Girls’ cricket The introduction of Best prospect Ben Mayes plays girls’ cricket in 2019 signalled a new for England Under-19 and has chapter at King Edward; they now represented Hampshire in the One field as many girls’ teams as boys’ Day Cup sides. Hampshire use some of the Cricketers of note Joe Weatherley, school’s facilities for their girls’ and Iain Brunnschweiler, Jimmy Gray women’s programmes (all Hampshire), John Francis, Fixtures The annual block fixture Simon Francis (both Somerset and against Churcher’s College is a Hampshire) highlight with a total of 25 fixtures Brief history Cricket has always played on a single Saturday as well been a major part of the sports as the annual MCC fixture against programme at King Edward. Most the 1st XI. They also play Wellington recently, the number of opportunities College, Canford, Seaford College, for students increased with the Winchester College & Dauntsey’s introduction of C & D teams at School, as well as two days of cricket younger levels as well as fixtures for the 1st XI girls and boys against against challenging opposition Blundells School at the end of the Cultural cricketers Sir Edward summer term Penley Abraham (biochemist), Facilities There is a grass square Stephen Hammond MP (politics), with two cage nets, four newly reIain Percy (GB Sailing), General Sir surfaced outdoor all-weather nets Gordon Messenger (Vice Chief of as well as four indoor nets Defence Staff ) on the school’s main site.

Recent progress The U15 King Edward also has boys qualified for the extensive fields regional finals day at the at Wellington end of June and the Sports U15 girls came second at the regional finals (losing to the eventual national champions) in the ECB Indoor Cricket Competition in March Tours Sri Lanka (2027) 62 | thecricketer.com

U15 Bunbury Festival. Eddie Miller, KING EDWARD’S SCHOOL, the part of Warwickshire’s academy, is a BIRMINGHAM left-handed batter and off-spinner Edgbaston Park Rd, Birmingham B15 2UA

Established 1552 Number of pupils 825 Master in charge Lawson Roll Professional Nathan Round Teams The school runs 15 teams Fixtures The school has 132 fixtures on its annual list, including games against Shrewsbury, Repton, Malvern College, MCC and Warwickshire Under-17s Facilities The school has three junior grass pitches, three junior astroturf nets, an indoor sports hall with cricket-specific flooring and lighting with four lanes and a separate 1st XI ground with four grass nets Club/county affiliation KES has served as a key hub for bringing local state primary and secondary foundation schools to benefit from the free use of cricket pitches and coaching expertise from staff, bringing cricket to close to 5,000 children. In 2024/25, three state primaries were welcomed to the school for half-termly blocks of specialist cricket coaching. Many of those children fell under the pupilpremium category and attend inner city Birmingham schools with limited playing space or coaching staff available. KES has also worked with St Chad’s Sanctuary, involving refugees and asylum seekers; PE assistants gave a programme of cricket awareness to these participants Best prospects Arjun Nahal is a right-handed batter and off-spinner, on Warwickshire’s books and part of

Cricketers of note Anurag Singh (Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Nottinghamshire), Mark Wagh (Warwickshire, Nottinghamshire), Vikram Bannerjee (Gloucestershire), Ossie Wheatley (Warwickshire, Glamorgan) Brief history KES has had a cricket XI since 1863, when eight matches were played. Since the late 1870s, 1st XI matches have been played at Eastern Road, which is still the 1st XI square Cultural cricketers Enoch Powell (politics), Kenneth Tynan (writer) Finest moment The school won the XL Club Trophy in 2015, and have twice been national U13 runners-up in the last decade Future plans King Edward’s has established a dynamic partnership with Warwickshire County Cricket Club and the King Edward’s Foundation, which includes 14 schools spanning both independent and state sectors. This collaboration aims to enhance current facilities and introduce new initiatives, fostering greater community engagement and participation in Birmingham. By leveraging resources and expertise from the cricket club and the diverse educational foundation, King Edward’s is dedicated to developing programs that benefit students and residents alike. As of 2025, discussions are advanced with Warwickshire to develop a joint venture for a second indoor “cricket dominant” sports hall on site Tours Dubai (U15: 2016, 2023, 2026), West Indies (U17: 2024)

KING EDWARD’S WITLEY

both boys and girls with the best possible environment to succeed.

A comprehensive winter training programme has been instrumental in the progress of many of our players, with several going on to represent their counties at various age-group levels Future plans They are looking at organising trips away to watch professional cricket for their boys and girls to witness elite cricket. They are also looking at hosting international cricketers for masterclasses for our pupils

KING EDWARD’S WITLEY

Petworth Rd, Wormley, Godalming GU8 5SG Established 1553 Number of pupils 490 Head of cricket Rikki Clarke Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABCDE, U12A | Girls: 1st XI, U17A, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABC Girls’ cricket The school hosts Surrey girls’ age-group games. The U13 softball girls recently reached a final, while the U14 girls made it to the quarter-final of the County Cup Fixtures The school has 166 scheduled fixtures, with notable highlights including 1st XI matches against The Forty Club, MCC and National T20 fixtures. They also play against Whitgift, St John’s Leatherhead, Epsom College, Reeds and Seaford Facilities The school has an indoor hall with four lanes and six outdoor astro nets, as well as a cage for centrewicket grass nets, four pitches with

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

two for hardball fixtures and two for softball lower-level girls’ matches Club/county affiliation Rikki Clarke Cricket Academy, Chiddingfold Cricket Club, Surrey Best prospect Tom Harrison, a Middlesex U16 cricketer, has performed well for county and school.

He made his 1st XI debut for the school at 13 Cricketers of note Adam Thomas (Surrey) Brief history Back in the early 1900s, school pupils often left to take up employment in the navy, especially serving on HMY Britannia. Hence

an annual cricket fixture took place between the school and HMY Britannia’s crew – except if they were on the other side of the world on royal duties. The away fixture (alternate years) was always the boys’ favourite as they often got a guided tour round the ship after the match Cultural cricketers Du’aine Ladejo (athletics) Finest moment The 1st XI boys’ team progressing to the next stages of the National U18 Cup was a recent high Recent progress A key focus is on enhancing facilities to provide

“I say to them, if you’re coming here 1 per cent better each week and you come all Former England allrounder 10 weeks, you’re already a 10 Rikki Clarke has been per cent better cricketer. For impressed at the growth me, that’s quite rewarding of cricket at King Edward’s because we’re just seeing Witley. development and progress.

Clarke, who represented I just want the boys and Surrey, Warwickshire girls to leave the school in a and Derbyshire during an better place from when they illustrious domestic career, is joined it, particularly with head of cricket at the school Rikki Clarke Head of cricket their cricket.” and has found new ways of To that end, he has been encouraged by channelling his inherent competitiveness. increased levels of participation. The school “The good thing for me is understanding that has just about doubled its fixture schedule from a win is us developing players,” he said. “From when Clarke joined, from 80 to 160, “which my point of view now, if I can develop the boys for a school of our size, being only 480 pupils, and girls to progress, I always say that in our is fantastic. sessions. At any level that they come, we might “We’re trying to play better schools and have some C-team boys or some A-team girls. tougher opposition, which is what we’ve done.

If they can come to every session and get 1 per It’s not always going to be the case, but currently cent better, that’s going to put them in a better the win percentage is going up each year, so not position to succeed more often than not.

only are we playing tougher schools, but we’re also getting wins and the win percentage is going up, which is obviously pleasing.

“We ran the under-14 Cranleigh side close in the County Cup, we actually should have won.

But from that point of view, that’s amazing for us to actually even be competing with a school like that on that given day.”

None of Clarke’s pupils were alive while he was playing for England, and a shrinking number remember the latter end of his playing career with Surrey. “I actually try and stay quite humble with it and see how they go with it,” he said, asked if there is a fascination around his past.

“I’m just a head of cricket, trying to make these boys and girls better, trying to make it fun and enjoyable and trying to pass on my knowledge, not only from my playing days as a professional through to retirement, but when I was a young kid as well. I was always up at my cricket club from the age of four, playing as much cricket as possible.”

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LEADING THE

FIELD Former England and county cricketer Rikki Clarke brings his

King Edward’s Witley, leading our comprehensive cricket programme. one-to-one coaching, winter nets in our four-lane indoor centre, top-level grass pitches.

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KING’S BRUTON // KING’S COLLEGE SCHOOL, WIMBLEDON

KING’S BRUTON Plox, Bruton BA10 0ED Established 1519 Number of pupils 355 Head of cricket Ben Crump Professional Gareth Dawson Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17A, U15AB, U14AB | Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15A

Girls’ cricket This year, the school hosted the first-ever ESCA Girls’ U11 Festival, while also fielding three senior girls’ teams for the first time.

Fixtures Among Bruton’s fixtures are games against MCC, Sherborne School, Dauntseys School, Taunton School and King’s College Taunton.

They also host a cricket festival week in the penultimate week of term, hosting Old Brutonians, Wiltshire

Queries, XL Club and ACE Academy.

Facilities They have four grass squares and eight grass nets in the summer term, which are complemented by five astroturf nets.

During the winter, they train in a twolane indoor centre.

Local primary and prep schools regularly use training and match facilities.

Club/county affiliation Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire Best prospects Batter and legspinner Ronnie Frost is a product of the Somerset U18 pathway and was 1st XI captain for 2025. Ava O’Reilly is part of the Ireland U17 training squad as a seam bowler.

Cricketers of note Ernest Burdett (Hyderabad), Harold Hippisley (Somerset), Philip Weaver (Hampshire)

Brief history Cricket at King’s School Bruton has a long-standing tradition.

The sport is offered to both boys and girls, and the school competes in national school competitions, as well as midweek and Saturday block fixtures against the traditional schools.

Cultural cricketers Fraser Stewart (MCC, head of laws) Finest moment In 2025, King’s reached the national south quarterfinal in the National Schools T20, becoming one of the top 16 best 1st XIs in the country. Eight pupils are currently representing their county or country. Somerset have used the main 1st XI square for a number of fixtures during the summer, including U18 boys’ and girls’ county age-group matches.

Recent progress The school has introduced department CPD for academic teaching staff who support the delivery of cricket throughout the summer term.

Future plans They are currently discussing the possibility of a new MUGA (Multi-Use Games Area) facility to support all-year-round cricket

Wimbledon in 1897, the abundance of outdoor space allowed cricket to flourish. In the 1970s and 1980s, the 1st XI was coached by former Hampshire professional Reginald Dare.

Cultural cricketers William Henry Preece (inventor), Frederic Harrison (historian), Nick D’Alosio (entrepreneur), Ben Barnes (actor), Marcus Mumford

(musician) Finest moment The U15A side were double county champions in 2022, winning the Surrey ESCA T20 and the Natwest County Cup in the same season. The U15A then won the Surrey ESCA T20 in 2024 for the second time in three seasons.

Recent progress Agegroup leads have added a skill of the week, which has captured the pupils’ imagination and allowed them to focus on improving specific areas of their game.

Future plans The recent announcement that the school will go fully co-educational provides an exciting opportunity for an extensive girls’ cricket programme.

Tours Sri Lanka, 2027

KING’S COLLEGE SCHOOL, WIMBLEDON

two bowling machines and throwdown nets. Offsite, there are two further grass squares, five outdoor nets, three artificial pitches and live-streaming technology.

Southside, Wimbledon Club/county affiliation Common, London Tom Gwynne They have partnerships SW19 4TT Head of cricket with 22 schools, primary and senior.

Established 1829 Best prospect 1st XI captain Adam Number of pupils 1,222 Fox was leading schoolboy run-scorer Head of cricket Tom Gwynne in the country in 2024 with 1,294. He is Professionals Ian Tabor, also part of Surrey’s under-18 setup.

Tom Tremewan, Dane Vilas Cricketers of note Charles Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, Absolom (Kent), George Hillyard U15ABC, U14ABCD, U13ABCDEF, (Leicestershire, Middlesex), U12ABCDEF Tom Bokenham Reddick Fixtures The school has 273 fixtures (Nottinghamshire), Donald Walker scheduled, with the 1st XI playing 25.

(Hampshire), Dudley Owen-Thomas The most notable are against MCC, (Surrey) Andrew Bredin (Sussex), the Alumni XI, Free Foresters and a Rehan Alikhan (Sussex, Surrey), southern-hemisphere touring side Marcus Wight (Gloucestershire) each year. Saturday block fixtures Brief history Cricket has been played take place each week, with the biggest played against RGS Guildford, at King’s since 1883 when the school, then located on the Strand, leased Dulwich College and Hampton. its first pitch at Wormwood scrubs.

Facilities The school has 13 nets, As early as the 1830s, however, pupils 10 indoor and three outdoor. 1st XI began to form their own cricket clubs, ground has two additional grass playing at the Kennington Oval and squares for junior matches, as well Lord’s. Following the school’s move to as two roll-on cages. They also have

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

KING’S COLLEGE TAUNTON // KINGSWOOD SCHOOL, BATH

KINGSWOOD SCHOOL, BATH Lansdown Rd, Bath BA1 5RG

KING’S COLLEGE TAUNTON South Rd, Taunton TA1 3LA Established 1880 Number of pupils 450 Director of Cricket Rob Woodman Professional Keith Parsons Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U17, U15ABC, U14AB | Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB Fixtures There are around 100 fixtures each year, including games against the MCC – men and women – and Cardiff and Exeter universities Facilities King’s College has an indoor sport performance centre with three indoor lanes, as well as a separate sports hall. There are six grass pitches, three bowling machines, all-weather astro nets and portable nets Club/county affiliation They are part of the MCC Cricket Foundation programme and were the first school to help pioneer the initiative. They also work with primary schools, including a year-round programme for Trinity School.

King’s have strong links with Taunton St Andrews CC Best prospects Thomas Rew is part of the England Lions squad for the winter, having impressed for England 66 | thecricketer.com

Under-19s and Somerset. Katie Rowe is part of Somerset’s pathway and hit her first school century last season Cricketers of note Jos Buttler (England, Somerset, Lancashire), Tom Banton (England, Somerset), Eddie Byrom (Somerset, Glamorgan), Nathan Gilchrist (Somerset, Kent), Will Smeed (Somerset), James Rew (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 affiliated prep school. Per capita, King’s can argue they have produced more professional cricketers than any other school in recent year.

Finest moment The school were crowned as national champions for both the U15 and U18 age-groups in 2023 Recent progress King’s have seen a significant increase in standard from their female cricketers in the last 12 month.

Future plans There are plans to appoint a head of girls’ cricket in the next 12 months.

Tours February, 2026: South Africa; October, 2026: Barbados

Established 1748 Number of pupils 890 Head of boys’ games James Brown Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC | Girls: U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB Fixtures There are around 130 fixtures each year, including games against the MCC Facilities Kingswood have four grass nets, four indoor nets, five artificial nets, four grass squares and two artificial strips Club/county affiliation The school has combined with Bath CC, who have provided coaches to work with students. They have also enjoyed occasional ground-shares with Lansdown CC and have combined with a local state school, Oldfield School, to compete in a Bath-based tournament Best prospect Freddie Stappard is a wicketkeeper-batter, who plays for Bath CC and Somerset U16s. He hit a century for Somerset this season and scored a match-winning 84 off just 44 balls in this year’s edition of the Cricketer Schools 100 tournament in Desert Springs Cricketers of note Charlie Morris (Worcestershire), Tim Rouse (Somerset) Brief history Competitive cricket has been a feature at Kingswood School, with F.C. Maxwell the first recognised 1st XI captain in 1862. Highlights over the years have included Roy Kerslake’s 10 for 63 against Bristol Grammar School in 1959 and, more recently, centuries against the MCC for Nick Prettejohn, Tim Rouse and Noah Davis

Cultural cricketers Head of cricket at the school in the 1980s was Mervyn Kitchen, former Somerset player and Test umpire. Kerslake, former Somerset captain, chairman and president captained the 1st XI in 1961.

Finest moment In the last 15 years, victories against the MCC have been particularly pleasing. A record stand of 175 for the first wicket between Sam Dunmow and Ed Armstrong in 2024 was also a highlight Recent progress In recent years, the school has had more and more success in local cup competitions, leading to various teams progressing to the national rounds. Recent and ongoing facility development have led to an improved environment for player development and the introduction of pre-season tours to La Manga and Desert Springs in the last couple of years has added to this process Future plans In the next couple of years, they plan to complete the re-laying of the main cricket squares, having also recently installed a new artificial strip on the fourth square.

They also plan to develop a new all-weather five-lane practice facility on the school site, revamp the old traditional scorecard and accelerate the development of facilities to allow girls’ cricket to flourish Tours There have been recent trips to La Manga and Desert Springs

LANCING COLLEGE // LORD WANDSWORTH COLLEGE

LANCING COLLEGE

Facilities Lancing have six indoor nets, six astro nets and four squares, as well as College, Lancing a hockey astro pitch that BN15 0RW is used in the summer for cricket by younger sides.

Established 1848 Club/county affiliation Number of pupils 605 Raj Maru Lancing are in partnership Director of cricket Director of cricket with the Sussex Cricket Raj Maru Board and host the Lancing Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd Primary State School Tournament, XI, U15AB, U14AB, Mixed XI | Girls: with approximately eight to 10 local Senior XI, U15, U14 state primary schools taking part each Fixtures All teams play between year. eight and 16 matches each.

LORD WANDSWORTH COLLEGE Long Sutton, Hook RG29 1TB Established 1922 Number of pupils 710 Head of cricket Greg Kennis Teams Boys: U18ABCD, U15ABC, U14ABC, 13AB, U12AB | Girls: U18AB, U15AB, U14AB, 13AB, U12AB Fixtures There are around 250 matches for boys and girls. Both 1st XIs play against MCC on the same day, creating a great spectacle for the school.

Facilities The school has 10 grass nets, nine artificial nets, five grass squares, three artificial pitches and an indoor sports hall with four nets.

Club/county affiliation The school has a close link with local clubs Odiham and Greywell for students to play club cricket. The school sponsors Greywell and fund all junior kit. The sports hall is available for club use throughout the winter.

Best prospect Bella Mitchell has played for the girls’ 1st XI since third form and has previously been involved in the Southern Vipers

setup.

Cricketers of note Michael Bates, Keith Wheatley (both Hampshire) Brief history Cricket at Lord Wandsworth is epitomised by the abundant and beautiful green surroundings in which the cricket pitches sit. Cricket is a main sport in the summer term and sits as the jewel in the crown, both 1st XIs boast strong fixture lists and girls’ cricket has thrived since its move to a major team sport in 2017. The school has produced several Hampshire U18 players and Southern Vipers in the last decade.

What sets the school apart? Both MCC fixtures – boys and girls – take place on the same day, this year Jensen Kelsey and Bella Mitchell both scoring hundreds against them.

Finest moment on the field The school regularly puts out 24 teams on Saturdays, which means more

Best prospect Alex McGuinness, an under-16 allrounder, is part of Sussex’s pathway and was given the Peter Robinson Scholarship.

Cricketers of note Mason Crane (Hampshire, Sussex, Glamorgan, Welsh Fire, England), Alice Capsey (Surrey, Delhi Capitals, Oval Invincibles, England), Tim Head (Sussex), Jonathan Robinson (Surrey) Brief history Cricket has been a part of life at Lancing College since 1857 (the school was founded in 1848), when the earliest recorded team

was led by G. Woodard, son of the school’s founder, Nathaniel Woodard.

Since then, the sport has grown to become one of the most popular and successful at the school. Cricket remains a key summer sport offered to both boys and girls. In recent years, Lancing cricketers have had the exciting opportunity to tour abroad, including a trip to South Africa and a 2025 tour of Barbados, where they played against local teams and received specialist coaching.

Cultural cricketers Sir Tim Rice Finest moment on the field The Lancing Rovers were crowned Cricketer Cup champions in 2019.

Recent progress The girls’ cricket programme and prep school are developing rapidly, with girls competing for places at all levels.

From last winter’s school-ofexcellence programme through the prep school, Lancing have four boys joining the school.

Future plans Lancing are hoping to develop a coaching education programme for staff, while also developing further community schools and club links.

Tours Barbados (2025, 2027)

than a third of pupils playing cricket each weekend.

Recent progress The recruitment of a new head of cricket who has been working within the professional game for the past 18 years has allowed the school to further drive the sport forward and continue

to upskill an already keen and committed teaching staff.

Future plans Plans for a cricketspecific indoor centre are in the pipeline, as well as changes in the timetable that will allow Kennis access to a greater volume of pupils.

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MAGDALEN COLLEGE SCHOOL // MALVERN COLLEGE

MAGDALEN COLLEGE SCHOOL Cowley Place, Oxford OX4 1DZ Established 1480 Number of pupils 900 Head of cricket Dan Trick Professional Alan Duncan Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABC | Girls: 1st XI

MALVERN COLLEGE College Rd, Malvern WR14 3DF Established 1865 Number of pupils 650 Master in charge Noel Brett Professional George Rhodes Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC | Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14 Fixtures The school plays approximately 90 fixtures, with 24 for the boys’ 1st XI; notable matches include encounters with Shrewsbury, Harrow, Repton, Wellington, Bradfield and MCC. Facilities The school’s indoor facility has eight net lanes, while outdoors there are six artificial lanes and 10 grass nets.

Club/county affiliation Worcestershire use the indoor school as their training base.

Cricketers of note Jack Haynes (Worcestershire),

Fixtures There are more than 200 fixtures, with notable games against Oxfordshire Bulls for the U12 and U13 sides, an annual U15 festival featuring schools from all over the country, and 1st XI matches vs MCC. The boys also play a two-day game against a local school and several touring matches against schools from around the world.

Facilities The school has multiple grass nets, off and on the main

squares. There is access to three full-size pitches and four junior pitches.

There is a sports hall with five net lanes and several bowling machines, along with a fully equipped gym.

They also use the hockey astro in the winter and have an artificial net facility.

Club/county affiliation Oxfordshire use the school’s facilities for their county agegroup programmes and EPP squads.

Best prospect Arthur Hanson is involved in Sussex’s academy, while Teddy Purosothoman is in Northants’ system and Alex Tervet in Oxfordshire’s.

Cricketers of note James Coles (Sussex, England Lions) Ollie Price (Gloucestershire), Tom Price (Gloucestershire), Tom Scriven (Leicestershire) Brief history Cricket has always had

a rich history at MCS and has been played on their school field pitch for hundreds of years.

Cultural cricketers Sam Mendes (Film director), Jim Rosenthal (Sports presenter), Nigel StarmerSmith (Rugby) What sets the school apart? The school field pitch is one of the finest in the country, set in the heart of Oxford, on an island surrounded by water, university colleges, punters and rowers: it is truly a spectacle when playing and spectating.

Finest moment on the field A few years ago, three pupils made their first-class debuts in the same month for three different counties.

Recent progress A big area the school is proud of is that in the past 12 months, they have seen huge development from their B and C teams. They have had lots of extra coaching Duncan, whose work has led to real progress.

Future plans Hybrid wickets are set to be fitted onto the main square; there are plans to continue the existing partnership with Oxfordshire.

Tours Sri Lanka (2026)

Tom Kohler-Cadmore (Worcestershire, Yorkshire, Somerset) David Nash (England A, Middlesex), Ben Twohig (Worcestershire), Alex Milton (Worcestershire), Mark Hardinges (Gloucestershire, Essex), Roger Tolchard (England, Leicestershire) RE Tip Foster (Worcestershire), Ricardo Ellcock (Worcestershire, Middlesex), Josh Baker (Worcestershire), Oli Cox (Worcestershire), Rehaan Edavalath (Worcestershire), Tommy Boorman (Gloucestershire), Archie Bailey (Gloucestershire), JT Langridge (Somerset) Brief history The Senior Turf at Malvern is spectacular. 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 the 1903/04 tour to

Australia, his Test match debut.

Cultural cricketers Lord MacLaurin of Knebworth (ex-ECB chief executive) Finest moment on the field The 1st XI won the National T20 in 2019 and 2021, while the 1st XI were unbeaten against school opposition during the 2012 season, winning 12 games in succession. The school also won the Lord Taverners U15 in 2000.

Recent progress Malvern have employed a new cricket professional for girls’ cricket and have also started block fixtures for girls on Saturdays.

Their boys’ 1st XI also played a threeday game last season.

Future plans New ideas from the school’s new management team see cricket at the forefront of outreach programmes moving forward.

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

MARLBOROUGH COLLEGE

MARLBOROUGH COLLEGE Bath Rd, Marlborough SN8 1PA Established 1843 Number of pupils 1,014 Master in charge Mike Bush Head of girls’ cricket Rob Horn Head coach Uzi Quereshi Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U16ABC, U15ABCD, U14ABCDE | Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14 Fixtures In 2025 a total of 196 fixtures were scheduled across all teams. This included 22 matches for the boys’ 1st XI and 17 for the girls’ 1st XI. The twoday Marlborough/Rugby match was played in the final week of term Facilities The school has 11 grounds, 19 artificial nets, three cages and four bowling machines, as well as the Martin-Jenkins covered training hub and a sports hall with five indoor nets Club/county affiliation Links with Marlborough CC, Burbage CC and Avebury CC; the school hosts matches for Gloucestershire 2nd XI, Wiltshire Men and Women, as well as England Over-50s Best prospects 15-year-old

fast bowler Will Jordan is on Gloucestershire’s academy, 16-yearold Gloucestershire-Wiltshire EPP keeper-batter Charlie Horton scored over 900 runs for the boys’ 1st XI in 2025. Both Jemima Carroll, 16, and Lily Weeden, 15, are part of the Glamorgan-Wiltshire EPP Cricketers of note RH Spooner

(England), Mike Griffith (Sussex), Billy Mead (Kent), Robbie Williams (Middlesex, Leicestershire) Brief history Founded in 1843, the ground was levelled out by boys in the early 1850s. The Marlborough/Rugby match was a regular fixture at Lord’s between 1855 and 1972. AG Steel, who played in the first Test played in

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England in 1880 and has his name on the Ashes urn, went to the school Cultural cricketers Siegfried Sassoon (poet), Jack Whitehall (comedian) Christopher MartinJenkins (cricket journalist) Finest moment The boys’ 1st XI won the John Harvey Cup and the twoday Rugby fixture in successive years in 2023 and 2024 Recent progress The boys’ 1st XI won 13 consecutive matches during the 2025 season in an overall record of W16, D2, L1, the girls’ 1st XI beat Rugby for the second successive year, the school won the U15 Clark Williams Festival for the fourth time in five years. Off the field, the MartinJenkins training hub opened, while the Pavilion East Room has been converted into a function suite that includes girls’ honours boards Future plans The College hosted Afghan refugees on the Home Office ARAP scheme in 2025, as well as Rwanda Women national players through the charity Cricket Without Boundaries. There are plans for further outreach initiatives with local primary schools Tours Sri Lanka, 2026 or 2027

MERCHANT TAYLORS’ SCHOOL, NORTHWOOD

MERCHANT TAYLORS’ SCHOOL, NORTHWOOD Sandy Lodge, Moor Park, Northwood, Hertfordshire HA6 2HT

Established 1561 Number of pupils 960 Director of cricket Philip Davies Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABCD, U14ABCDE, U13ABC, U12ABC Fixtures The school has traditional Saturday block fixtures, fielding teams from Year 7 to Year 13 each weekend of the summer term, as well as local midweek fixtures. They enter the County Cup competitions at U14, U15, U17, U18 and U19 level Facilities The school has 12 cricket squares. In the last few seasons, they have hosted Australia, England, India, Ireland and Sri Lanka, boasting a new, purpose-built five-lane indoor cricket school Club/county affiliation The school is the home of Middlesex youth cricket, while the senior squad also

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trains there. They also host the IAPS U11 Festival of Cricket, as well as the annual U10 Lamb Trophy Best prospect Adam Khan is a batting allrounder who bowls excellent legspin and is on the Middlesex pathway Cricketers of note Ravi Patel, Aaryan Sawant (both Middlesex) Brief history The first reference to cricket at the school occurred in 1819, and in the 1840s they played matches at The Oval against rivals and neighbours St Paul’s and Charterhouse. By 1858, cricket had become permanently established

as a school game. In 1933, the school moved to its present location at Sandy Lodge, where the 300-acre site provides ample room for cricket to thrive Cultural cricketers Conn Iggulden (author), Riz Ahmed (actor) Finest moment The school won the U17 National Cup in 2017 and the U15 ESCA National Cup in 2025.

They have also been national T20 finalists twice in the last decade Recent progress The school has an ambitious community outreach programme, hosting over 25 primary

and cement the school’s position towards the top of the cricketing hierarchy,” Phil Davies lives by the motto says Davies, recently of “first-class education, promoted to director of first-class people, first-class cricket after seven years at cricketers” at Merchant the school.

Taylors’ School.

“I’d happily put my neck on It is a claim he makes with the line and say our facilities plenty of evidence to back are the best in the country, and it up. that little bit of extra access As well as a state-of-thePhil Davies Director of cricket is always good for aspiring art indoor centre used by county cricketers and makes Middlesex’s senior and junior a huge difference for our lower end cricketers. players, the school boasts 12 grass squares and “We have a great coaching staff and two county standard first team pitches, among cricket-loving teachers that push all boys from other top-notch facilities, when springtime A teams through to E teams to improve and comes around. be their best. They’re all accessing that level This programme has translated into plenty of coaching and facilities, as well as playing of success on the field, most recently with Merchant Taylors’ Under-15s claiming the ESCA upwards of 10 fixtures a season.

“Performance and participation aren’t national 40-over title in the summer. mutually exclusive here and our lower end “It was no mean feat out of the thousand cricketers can aspire to be higher end cricketers, schools that entered, and I’m hoping to try

and prep schools in the Lamb Trophy Festival and U11 IAPS Festival of Cricket. They hope that the new cricket centre allows them to offer similar indoor opportunities through winter. Consultant coaches Toby Radford, Jack Parham and Stuart Barnes have also been enlisted to help pupils Future plans The school now engages over 350 pupils and 40 staff in cricket Tours Tours in the last three years to Abu Dhabi and Dubai; there was an under-18 tour to Sri Lanka in 2025

which in turn really does generate competition for places.”

That competition has paid dividends, with 50 boys in county pathways at the likes of Middlesex, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire.

As well as historic games on their fixture list like St Paul’s, contested since 1840, Merchant Taylors’ cricketers are also exposed to toplevel opposition in a pre-season quadrangular tournament involving Tonbridge, Repton and King’s College Taunton.

Touring sides from India and Sri Lanka also add to the variety.

“I know the programme like the back of my hand and I’m determined to keep the good ship running,” adds Davies.

“At the same time, I am always trying to take the programme to new heights and provide the best cricketing opportunities for all our boys, be they aspiring professional cricketers, or ones who just play to be with their friends on Saturday.”

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MILLFIELD SCHOOL // NEW HALL SCHOOL

MILLFIELD SCHOOL Butleigh Road, Street BA16 0YD Established 1935 Number of pupils 1,280 Director of cricket Mark Garaway Lead girls’ coach Henry Hunt Junior performance coach Tim Simmonite Cricket coach Sam Braid Pace bowling coach Steffan Jones Mindset coach Lewis Hatchett Teams 13 hardball, two softball Fixtures The school plays 138 fixtures per year, with notable fixtures against the academies of Gloucestershire, Hampshire and Glamorgan; they also face MCC, XL Club and the universities of Exeter and Bristol.

Facilities The school has an indoor school with five net lanes, a fielding area with 4G grass, throwing and bowling walls with speed radars, five grass nets and a four-bay outdoor artificial net bay. Three of six grounds have Frogbox match analysis systems, which livestream matches, and a newly established backyard cricket facility with a Flicx Pitch playing surface Club/county affiliation They host the Lord’s Taverners Super 1s programme on a weekly basis with staff and pupils running the sessions, while also hosting and coaching Somerset’s D40 and S9 squads Best prospects Caleb Falconer is on Middlesex’s books and was named in England Under-19s’

squad for the winter. Louie Lawrence is a keeper-batter for Sussex’s academy). Lilly Hawkins and Laila Moledina are both part of Somerset’s pathway Cricketers of note Ian Ward (Surrey, Sussex, England), Paul Terry (Hampshire, England), Kieron Powell (West Indies), Tom Maynard (Glamorgan and Surrey), Simon Jones (England), Craig Kieswetter (Somerset, England), Ben Hollioake (Surrey, England), Daniel BellDrummond (Kent, England Lions) Brief history In 2016, Millfield became the first school to hold three national titles at the same time (U15 T20, U17, U18 T20), repeating the feat in 2018 with wins in the U15 Girls, U17 Boys and U18 Boys National Cup Finals.

Cultural cricketers JPR Williams (Wales, British Lions – rugby), Pete Wilson (2012 Olympic Gold Medallist, Shooting Double Trap) Recent progress They have hosted an ECB Foundation course and an ECB Core Coach course as part of the yearly programme within the cricket centre. This has enabled 10 pupils and four teachers to enhance their coaching confidence and skills.

The pupils all coach within the squad programme and support disability coaching Future plans Backyard Cricket is a new initiative for 2025. The state-of-theart facility, based out at Kingweston House has been a popular addition to the cricket programme, enabling boys and girls to play a fastpaced, constrained game to either be their preferred format of cricket or to support their conventional practice

NEW HALL SCHOOL The Avenue, Boreham, Chelmsford CM3 3HS Established 1642 Number of pupils 1350 Head of cricket Eddie Ballard Professional Ravi Bopara Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB | Girls: U18, U17, U15, U14, U13AB, U12 Fixtures The school has more than 180 fixtures, with the most notable match against MCC. There is also a two-day game against Bancroft’s, as well as fixtures against touring Australian schools. They also play in the Castle Festival and Ampleforth Festival each year Facilities New Hall has some of the most beautiful cricket facilities in the area, with the main ground ‘Six Acres’ a fantastic place to play cricket, also hosting four artificial nets. They have three further cricket pitches, while the sports centre holds four lanes of indoor nets to be able to offer maximum cricket through the winter Club/county affiliation They have a close charitable relationship with local primary school Messing, delivering coaching for them. On site, they host County Cup Finals Days and MCC Foundation sessions.

In 2026, they are planning to host

a Community Cup for local state schools Best prospects Archie Tebbutt is a seam-bowling allrounder, who is currently representing Essex CCC and playing multiple years above his age group at school, as well as being selected for this year’s Bunbury Festival. Gia Wilkins, another allrounder, is also representing Essex Cricketers of note Ben Allison (Worcestershire) Brief history Cricket at New Hall is increasing every year, with girls’ cricket growing too; the school took 25 girls to Dubai and Abu Dhabi at Easter, as well as a boys’ 1st XI touring team to Sri Lanka in February Finest moment In 2024, New Hall enjoyed some fantastic results, their U13 girls as runners-up at the ISA, while the U13 boys and U15 girls were ISA champions. The U14 boys were also County Cup champions after beating close rivals Brentwood in the final. In 2025, the 1st XI reached the last 32 of the U18 National Cup Recent progress In 12 months, the school has run a U13 girls’ tour to Norfolk and a U15 tour to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, highlighting the growth of the game for girls at New Hall Tours 2025: U15 girls to Dubai and Abu Dhabi; boys’ 1st XI to Sri Lanka.

2026: U13 boys and girls to Norfolk; U15 boys to Dubai and Abu Dhabi thecricketer.com | 73

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

NEWCASTLE-UNDER-LYME-SCHOOL // NORWICH SCHOOL

NORWICH SCHOOL 71a The Close, Norwich, Norfolk NR1 4DD

NEWCASTLEUNDER-LYME SCHOOL

Club/county affiliation They have launched a new District Cricket Tournament, hosted at the school. Four local state schools – Madeley Mount Pleasant, School, Clayton Hall Newcastle-under-Lyme, Jason Brown Academy, St John Fisher Staffordshire ST5 1DB Head of cricket Catholic College, and The Orme Academy – Established 1874 competed alongside them in U13 Number of pupils 870 and U15 tournaments Head of cricket Jason Brown Best prospects Joe Harrison Professional Charles Harrison represents Cheshire at under-15 Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U16, level as a fast bowler, while Arjun U15A, U14A, U13AB, U12AB | Girls: Anammalai is a middle-order batter U15A, U14A, U13AB, U12AB in Northamptonshire’s U18s Fixtures Boys play 110 fixtures, while Cricketers of note John Ward the girls’ teams play 45. Headline (Derbyshire), Grace Potts fixtures include those against Old (Lancashire) Castilians and MCC. Other highlights Brief history Newcastle High School include matches with Shrewsbury was formed in 1874 and the first School, King Edward’s Birmingham, recorded fixtures within The Fire-Fly Cheadle Hulme and King’s (official school magazine) were Macclesfield. The school enters the against Silverdale CC & Whitmore HMC U19 T20 and U17 National CC in 1880. However, cricket fixtures Cricket Cup. There is also an end-ofmust have taken place before this season festival against King’s Chester, Stockport Grammar and AKS Lytham date as the first Old Castilians match took place on 29th July 1880 and for the 1st XI RJ Twyford was recorded as 1st XI Facilities The school has four new captain for the 1877-88 season. The net lanes in the sports hall with Orme Girls’ School formed in 1876 an additional lane added in 2025, played a significant amount of cricket complete with 10-metre matting and between 1908 and 1925 three bowling machines, including Cultural cricketers Nigel a specialised Junior Bola machine.

Johnson, Roger Johnson (both BBC They also have access to two other broadcasters), Dan Robson (rugby) sports halls for cricket, two of which Finest moment The 1st XI reached are used for softball and fielding the regional final of the HMC practice. Outside, there are five National U19 T20 Competition artificial nets in an encaged netin 2017, only to be defeated by specific training area. There is also an Shrewsbury School enclosed practice net area consisting Recent progress The school have of five lanes on astro, which is floodlit. seen a number of girls play up and There are three cricket squares hold their own in boys’ teams across two grounds, with two hybrid Tours Dubai, 2026 cricket pitches 74 | thecricketer.com

Established 1547 Number of pupils 950 Head of cricket Andrew Wylie Coaches Richard Sims, Alfie Cooper Teams Boys 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABCD, U11ABC, U10AB, U9AB | Girls: 1st XI, U15AB,U14, U13ABCD, U12, U11, 10AB, 9AB Fixtures The school plays roughly 180 fixtures per year, the most notable being the men’s and women’s MCC fixtures. They also take part in the Woodard festival in July, including Hurstpierpoint, Worksop College and Bloxham Facilities Norwich have a two-lane purpose-built cricket gallery, a sports hall with cricket facilities, 12 grass nets, nine astro nets – including a new Redmayne net facility established in 2023 – and six grass squares Club/county affiliation The school has close links with Norfolk Cricket Board and are also an MCC Foundation hub Best prospects 1st XI captain Lewis Reeder is currently in Northants’ academy. India-Rose Fox and Bella Borges are both on Essex’s pathway Cricketers of note George Walker (Leicestershire, Derbyshire), Clive Radley (Middlesex, England)

Brief history Norwich School has a long and fascinating history. Its roots and the buildings it occupies date back to the foundation of the cathedral in 1096. The 1st XI play in the Cathedral Close in Norwich with the cathedral providing a stunning and historic backdrop. Cricket was first played at the Lower Close in around 1862 when the school was able to lease a meadow from the Dean and Chapter. It took 80 cartloads of soil to level the ground that is still played on today Cultural cricketers Sir Edward Coke (judge), Humphrey Repton (designer), Lt Col Derek Seagrim VC (Army), Major Hugh Seagrim GC (Army), Lord Ashcroft (politician) Finest moment Matthew Plater hit an unbeaten double hundred in the final of the 2012 U14 Norfolk Bunbury Cup T20 competition. More recently, the school reached the last eight in the U15 ESCA competition in 2024 was a fine moment; the U15 side reached the regional final this year Recent progress The development of the girls’ winter programme – and the growth in numbers of girls attending winter sessions – has encouraged the school. They have reached the last 16 of the girls’ U18 Sports Magazine competition Future plans The school are keen to increase access for pupils into cricket officiating around umpiring and scoring. They also plan to expand the current on-site astro net facility

OAKHAM SCHOOL // OUNDLE SCHOOL

OAKHAM SCHOOL Chapel Close, Market Pl, Oakham LE15 6DT Established 1584 Number of pupils 950 Director of cricket Patrick Latham Professional Tom Fell Teams Boys 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB | Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U13 Fixtures The school plays between 160 and 180 fixtures per year, with marquee games against the MCC, XL Club, Leicestershire Gents as well as the British Army Development XI. The girls play major fixtures against the RAF and MCC Facilities Oakham have four indoor nets, six home grounds (all grass), two pavilions, access to full time S&C with a new upgrade gym facility coming, 14 lane astro nets and three Dream Netting facilities on a grass practice square devoted to cricket Club/county affiliation The school has close links with Leicestershire, with a newly developed partnership with LCCC women and girls. Links to ECB have seen an U19 girls’ festival

OUNDLE SCHOOL Church Street, Oundle, Northamptonshire PE8 4EE Established 1556 Number of pupils 1,130 Head of cricket David Foster Boys’ 1st XI coach Adil Arif Girls’ 1st XI coach Cherie Hallet and Robert Pack Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, 6th XI, U17 (cup only), U16A, U15ABC, U14ABCD,

on-site in the summer holiday. The Root Academy hold cricket camps on site. A newly formed partnership with The Rutland Learning Trust sees school coaches offer year-round coaching and matches for the U12 Local Primary School combined cricketers Best prospect Rose Starsmore-Young has represented Leicestershire U18s on a number of occasions and has contributed very well to Oakham’s 1st XI, including 58 against Oundle in 2025 Cricketers of note Stuart Broad (England, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire), Lyndon James (England Lions, Nottinghamshire), Josh Cobb (Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, Worcestershire, Welsh Fire), Tom Fell (Worcestershire), Lucy Pearson (England) Brief history The first recorded cricket match was against local rivals

Uppingham School in 1815. Robert King was the school’s first county player, playing for Leicestershire from 1846 to 1849. In 1926, Percy Chapman became the first Oakhamian to captain England. Later Stuart Broad captained the England T20I side.

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, Jack van Poortvliet, Alex Goode (all England rugby), Crista Cullen (GB hockey), Miles Jupp (actor), Alex Stadler (Germany hockey) Finest moment In 2025, Oakham’s finest moment was the introduction of a new U11 mixed cricket festival Future plans The school are looking to establish a junior and senior academy for boys and a senior academy for girls, playing an exciting new fixture list

U13ADCD | Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABCD Fixtures In 2025, the school played over 275 fixtures, most notably against MCC men and women Facilities Oundle have nine grass squares, a bay of 10 grass nets, 10 outdoor astro nets and two sports centres, one with four indoor nets and the other with space to play two indoor matches side by side. The school uses two hockey

astros for training and matches, since the girls cricket numbers have increased. They also have three bowling machines, one of which is a Merlyn spin machine. Two of the pitches have dedicated cricket pavilions, one of which has recently undergone a full refurbishment Club/county affiliation Oundle are official education partners with Northamptonshire, to whom the school offers their facilities. They also work closely with Oundle Town Best prospect Bertie Case, on Northants’ academy, is a 17-year-old left-arm 6ft 7in seamer; he made his county second-team debut this year Cricketers of note Will Jefferson (Nottinghamshire, Essex, England A), Greg Smith (Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire), Simon Fernandes (Essex), Amartya Kaul (Singapore, Bangala Tigers)

Brief history Cricket has been a major part of Oundle School since 1830 when the first match is thought to have been played, although the first match on record was against Uppingham in 1855. The school’s 1st XI squads are proudly displayed on the walls of the JM Mills Pavilion dating back to 1877. WG Grace Jnr was master in charge at Oundle, son of the great WG Grace Cultural cricketers Tom Harrison (ex-ECB CEO), Shahayryar Khan (ex-PCB chairman), Dave Walder, Tom Curry, Ben Curry (all England rugby) Finest moment Ralph Hayward broke the school’s record, which had stood since 1923, by recording the highest score in school boys’ cricket in the 2024 season, by blasting his way to 269 not out in a total of 418 Recent progress In 2025, the school enjoyed a 75 per cent win ratio across all teams; the girls’ U14A side registered an unbeaten season Future plans There are plans to refurbish the indoor nets to make a specific cricket space with new flooring and five-lane net system Tours Sri Lanka, 2025 thecricketer.com | 75

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S

captains Yorkshire at under-U18 level, while Enzo Campagna also represents Yorkshire at youth level.

Leona Robinson is in Yorkshire’s girls’ pathway Cricketers of note Finlay Bean (Yorkshire), Dom Leech (Yorkshire, Northamptonshire), Harry Crawshaw (Durham) Brief history Queen Ethelburga’s School was formed in 1912, and the first documented 1st XI fixture was on July 8, 1916. It was between the 1st XI and the officers of the 2nd and 4th Battalion of Royal Norfolk – records suggest that QE won by 135 runs What sets the school apart?

The ability to host floodlit matches allows the cricket season to be extended with fixtures scheduled for early April and until the end of September each season Finest moment The 1st XI won the inaugural U18 Regional T20 Plate Final (Yorkshire and North-East Region) and the Emeriti Schools Cup in the space of three days at the end of the 2023 season Recent progress Pupils of Nigerian, Ukrainian, French, American, Russian, Fijian and Nepalese heritage have all represented the school in cricket fixtures

QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate, Thorpe Underwood, Estate, York YO26 9SS

Established 1912 Number of pupils 1,310 Coach in charge of cricket Shrikant Wagh Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U16, U15, U14, U13, U12AB, U11AB, U10AB | Girls: U16, U15, U14, U13, U12, U11AB, U10AB Fixtures In 2025, the school played 90 fixtures Facilities The school has two indoor nets, four outdoor astro nets, two outdoor grass nets, two squares – one of which is floodlit – and a Flicx wicket. Cricketers also have access to a strength-and-conditioning gym, as well as a pool, sauna, steam room, jacuzzi and ice bath Club/county affiliation Kwik

MEET THE COACH IN CHARGE

Cricket and summer fun day events welcomed pupils from Roecliffe Primary School, Killinghall CE Primary School, Outwood Primary Academy Alne, and Great Ouseburn Community Primary School, all led by student volunteers Best prospects Joseph Hall plays for Derbyshire at under-18 level and recently captained the county’s second team. Louie Wilson

senior teams for both boys and girls.

“We do have one-toFew schools have a former one masterclasses, giving Indian Premier League additional coaching player to lead their cricket opportunities tailored to programme, but that is the the development of the luxury Queen Ethelburga’s individual athletes and the Collegiate possess. particular skills they want Coach in charge of cricket to develop.

Shrikant Wagh featured in “The experience and two editions, for Rajasthan Royals in 2009/10, and 2020 Shrikant Wagh Coach in charge of cricket expertise being brought to senior teams is something and Pune Warriors in 2011. we are making sure we replicate with the junior Wagh also played several India A games during teams. They look up to the older cricketers and his professional playing career. are then want to join our Performance Sport Naturally, he is keen to share his experience Pathway. That’s why we’re encouraging cricket with the pupils who fill the 22 boys’ and girls’ across all our different year groups, especially teams which he oversees.

“My focus is to use my experience and expertise from Year 6 to Year 13.

“In my experience, the focus is to give them a to provide our students with exposure in terms of bit more knowledge.” high-performance coaching,” he said.

Giving pupils knowledge about their games, “We work with biomechanics experts at allowing them to pinpoint areas of improvement Loughborough, so that helps achieve a higher is a high-performance characteristic of the set of skills and accuracy, especially for the

cricket programme at Queen Ethelburga’s.

“Someone like me who has experience of playing for 18 years at the highest level, I believe it’s our responsibility to give the next generation of cricketers the best opportunities and experiences available.

“Once they start their cricketing journey, and you see their love of the game develop, you also see their consistency grow in terms of putting in the hours and attending all the coaching sessions throughout the season, so I think it’s essential for them to learn from experience.”

So how does Wagh see the programme developing?

“How can you engage cricketers in the offseason throughout the winter? That’s my focus especially this year.

“We’re trying to increase our partnerships with other clubs and local counties, to engage younger players and try to establish some joint-traning sessions, exploring the possibility of indoor fixtures and expand on the expertise we can share when we all work together for the good of the sport.”

www.qe.org • Admissions@qe.org • 01423 333330 76 | thecricketer.com

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS Club/county affiliation Queen’s College are shirt and ground sponsors of Trull Cricket Club, which has strengthened the link between school and club. Foster leads the junior coaching programme, and school facilities are regularly used for club training and matches.

Queen’s host an U11 festival each year, engaging local primary schools. They also ran an U15 festival, with six Trull Rd, Taunton TA1 4QS hardball matches played at the same time, open to state Established 1843 and independent schools Number of pupils 371 Caroline Foster Best prospects Munesu Head of cricket Head of cricket Nhete hit a maiden half Caroline Foster century at 1st XI whilst still in Year Professionals Arul Suppiah, 9 and also bounced batters out at Karla Rose senior level in a strong all-round Teams Boys: 1st XI, U15, U14, U13AB, season. Megan Clark has been called U12AB | Girls (hardball): 1st XI, U15, up for regional representation, while U13, U12 | Girls (softball): U15B, Leo Carpenter bagged 4 for 30 against U13BC, U12BC MCC with his left arm spin Fixtures The school plays more than 100 fixtures, with the highlight coming Cricketers of note JT Langridge (Somerset), Ffion Hand (Ireland), against MCC Jacob Lintott (Southern Brave, Facilities The school has a four-lane Warwickshire) net facility in the sports hall, five astro Finest moment The school were outdoor nets, two roll-on cages for national champions of the Lord’s grass wicket practice on one of nine Taverners Colts Trophy in 1983, squares

QUEEN’S COLLEGE, TAUNTON // RADLEY COLLEGE

QUEEN’S COLLEGE, TAUNTON

RADLEY COLLEGE Kennington Road, Radley, Abingdon OX14 2HR Established 1847 Number of pupils 750 Master in charge Simon Dalrymple Professional Billy Godleman Teams 19 Fixtures The school has 151 fixtures planned for the 2025 season, with the 1st XI involved in the John Harvey and Cowdrey Cup competitions; they also 78 | thecricketer.com

enter the National T20 knockout Facilities Radley have five indoor nets, 26 artificial nets outdoors, 10 grass nets and 11 grass pitches. They use box nets on three squares to offer grass practice to as many teams as possible Club/county affiliation The school works with Oxfordshire cricket to support their work in promoting cricket in local primary schools.

Oxfordshire use the indoor facilities as part of their winter programme Best prospect Manny Lumsden is an

played at Edgbaston Recent progress Queen’s has become a Pacelab Summer 2025 Hub, which has brought a lot of talent to the school for training and has proven a great addition to thriving cricket CPD opportunities. More and more staff are using Play-Cricket scoring apps with reciprocal engagement Future plans There are plans to further develop the Pacelab partnership for betterment of Queen’s College pace bowlers. They

are also in the process of revamping the main pavilion in keeping with tradition. The school is looking to disseminate coaching resources beyond Queen’s to facilitate player development in feeder schools and clubs, and to attract forward-thinking coaches who want to collaborate in helping young people enjoy the game

exciting allrounder and has already made a splash in professional cricket, debuting in the One Day Cup and impressing with his pace despite only being in Year 11 Cricketers of note Ted Dexter (England), Andrew Strauss (Middlesex, England), Ben Hutton (Middlesex), Robin MartinJenkins (Sussex), Jamie Dalrymple (Middlesex, England), Nick Gubbins (Middlesex, Hampshire) 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 1866-67, 1929-32, the 1990s and then 2006-08 deserving special mention.

The 1st XI won the Cowdrey Cup/ John Harvey double in 2017 and won the John Harvey most recently in 2021 Cultural cricketers Peter Cook

(satirist) Finest moment The 1999 side won nine out of 10 matches completed in timed cricket, taking 98 of a possible hundred wickets. Back-to-back Cowdrey Cup triumphs in 2007 and 2008 are the highlights of recent years. The 2017 side won the Cowdrey Cup and the John Harvey Cup and enjoyed a remarkable moment in that season where they took six wickets in six balls as the score went from 220 for 4 to 221 all out Recent progress Forty members of staff play an active role in keeping boys engaged with the game, offering them opportunities to play competitive fixtures Future plans There are plans to develop a second indoor facility with cricket at its heart. That would open up the winter programme to more pupils both in school and in the local area

admissions@queenscollege.org.uk queenscollege.org.uk

REED’S SCHOOL // REIGATE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

REIGATE GRAMMAR SCHOOL

REED’S SCHOOL Sandy Lane, Cobham, Surrey KT11 2ES Established 1813 Number of pupils 850 Head of cricket Chris Boyle Professional Keith Medlycott Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U17, U15ABC, U14ABCD, 13ABCDE, U12ABCDE | Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI Fixtures There are 230 matches for boys and girls, including most notable fixtures against MCC Facilities The school has two senior and two junior squares on-site, with one hybrid pitch part of the main cricket field, known as Bigside. That ground also has a video scoreboard.

The indoor school has five artificial net lanes, with PitchVision analysis in all of them, as well as Merlyn and Trueman BOLA bowling machines and four BOLA professional bowling machines. Outdoors, there are six artificial nets, eight grass lanes and two roll-on cages. The school also has two Flicx wickets Club/county affiliation Whiteley Village CC Brief history Cricket has been played at Cobham since the school arrived from Totnes just after the war. The game grew in the 1960s under two

great headmasters, Bob Drayson and Rodney Exton. The latter’s experience as a county cricketer at Hampshire when still a schoolboy developed the game beyond measure. Now retired headmaster David Jarrett, a Blue at Oxford and Cambridge, encouraged the sport to reach its highest standard in the history of the school. Cricket has produced many excellent players over the years and, presently, they have a number of pupils playing for county and national academies, plus leavers who were in the ECCU programme, a number of whom now play first-class cricket Cultural cricketers Tim Henman (tennis), Tom Hardy (actor), Simon Keenlyside (opera), Alex Corbisiero (rugby), Chris Hollins (TV), Jeremy Ovenden (opera), Jeremy Sharples (opera), Michael Ball (singer) Recent progress More pupils than ever are participating at the senior end of the school, meaning a comprehensive fixture list for their 4th XI. A one-to-one coaching programme during academic time (akin to music lessons) has been added Future plans Grass nets have been improved, while the main square has been extended to create middlepractice facilities. The main pavilion has been redeveloped Tours Dubai (2025), Sri Lanka (2026)

offering a large number of bursary places. Sport is a key element in the lives of Reigatians and cricket is the major summer term Reigate Rd, Reigate, Surrey sport RH2 0QS Cultural cricketers Bill Frindall (scorer, statistician), Established 1675 David Walliams (comedian), Number of pupils 1,150 Laurie Reed (Olympian), Director of cricket Sir Keir Starmer (prime Darryl Rebbetts Darryl Rebbetts Professional Ollie Rayner Director of cricket minister) Finest moment In Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd September 2021, the U15A girls XI, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABCD, U12ABCD | Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14ABC, having reached finals day of the National Cup, finishing third, having U13ABCD, U12ABCD won their County Cup final earlier in Fixtures The school plays 170 fixtures, the summer against a very talented most notably against MCC for the Cranleigh side boys’ 1st XI. The majority of teams Recent progress Using Full Track AI reached the quarter or semi-finals in analysis tool to enhance Individual their respective cup competitions undertanding of our own games.

Facilities Reigate have six outdoor Girls’ cricket continues to develop astro nets, as well as four cricket with a new local tour to Cheltenham squares (three grass and one astro). established for U14s, running They have indoor nets and are in the alongside the boys’ U14 tour to process of building a new sports hall Channel Islands to prepare them for for 2027, which will include six nets, their senior cricket tour. All girls’ age mats and bowling machines groups teams to play indoor cricket Club/county affiliation Pupils at Lord’s this winter. State of the playing county cricket with Surrey, art sports hall ready for September Sussex and Kent 2027 with cricket at the heart of the Best prospects Rosie Foster development. MCC to play against represents Surrey at under-18 level boys and girls in 2026 as a wicketkeeper-batter, while Benji Future plans A new sports hall is Hillsdon and Tommy Rivers are both being built, giving pupils a better in Surrey’s pathway as promising facility to be able to train in allrounders Cricketers of note Will Beer (Sussex), Andy Babington (Sussex, Gloucestershire) Brief history Reigate Grammar School was established in 1675 with a philanthropic focus, the school still continues its strong heritage today thecricketer.com | 79

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

REPTON SCHOOL

REPTON SCHOOL Willington Rd, Repton, Derbyshire DE65 6FH Established 1557 Number of pupils 630 Master in charge Cameron Wake Technical director of cricket Martin Speight Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U15ABC, U14ABC | Girls: 1st XI, U15 Fixtures There are more than 100 matches for boys and girls across the season, with notable fixtures against Shrewsbury, Malvern, Rugby, King’s Taunton, Uppingham and MCC. Facilities The school has four cricket grounds, five grass nets, 10 astro nets and two indoor sports halls, both of which are equipped for cricket.

Club/county affiliation The school has close links with Derbyshire and use their indoor facilities once a week

MEET THE TECHNICAL DIRECTOR OF CRICKET

in the winter to run high-performance programme training sessions Best prospect Harry Moore (right), who has represented England Lions and Derbyshire, is a highly regarded teenage seamer Cricketers of note CB Fry, FSG Calthorpe, DB Carr (all England), Chris Adams (Derbyshire, Sussex, England), Richard Hutton (Yorkshire, England), Jon Batty (Surrey, Gloucestershire), Tom Poynton (Derbyshire), Ross Whiteley (Derbyshire, Hampshire, Worcestershire), Yousaf Bin Naeem (Derbyshire) Cultural cricketers Jeremy Clarkson

(TV), Roald Dahl (author) What sets the school apart?

The introduction of girls’ cricket in 2019 has made a significant difference in giving Repton girls the opportunity to play competitive cricket against other schools, be that in National Cup competitions, or regular Saturday block fixtures. Several are contracted academy

more physical than us. I taught at a rugby school before, and it wasn’t a problem there. People Former Sussex and Durham hit the ball harder than us this star Martin Speight has a sevenseason, they ran quicker, and year plan for all his players at were just a bit more physical Repton School on what he calls than us. “a carousel of cricket”.

That is the way the game is The wicketkeeper/batsman going – counties expect players has been at the Derbyshire to belt it out of the park now. So school for two years, and he now we are going to develop a said: “It’s great to have a full strong culture for conditioning cycle with our cricketers, when Martin Speight Technical director of cricket and strength work, and we you can influence them from a have two coaches looking at young age. I want to get to the that. We will also be working hard on the mental point where if someone comes in at sixth form, skills of cricket.” great, but you are not reliant on that.”

Clearly Repton are doing something right, Results from last summer appear good, but though, as five of the boys played county 2nd XI Speight is not resting on his laurels as he works cricket. “And our junior teams did very well, the alongside Chris Simons and Adam Holt. under-12s, 13s and 14s.

“The 1st XI won 14 and lost nine, eight of “Also, our girls won the under-17 national cup, which we lost in the last over, which we will and our 15s girls lost in both national semis. need to look at,” said Speight. “Our catching They get exactly the same coaching as the boys. was our biggest weakness even though we Chris oversees the girls’ section. He is a full-time practise it every Wednesday and it’s normally a coach/administrator and development officer super-strength. and does incredibly well. He’s been here five “Also, sometimes we found sides that were

players for The Blaze and Middlesex, signifying a clear pathway for pupils into the professional game Finest moment on the field The school has seen plenty of recent success in its girls’ teams, winning the U18 hundred-ball competition and U15 T20 in 2023, before winning the U15 hundred-ball tournament and U18 national T20 in 2024 Recent progress Repton provide a comprehensive winter coaching programme that includes six early morning sessions per week, focusing on specific skillsets. They allow players to train in free periods. On average, cricketers can access at least 10 hours of one-to-one or small-group coaching throughout the winter from September to April Future plans They are developing links with neighbouring counties, sharing coaches and facilities, while also hoping to add four hybrid pitches in time for next summer, as well as a new block of astro nets Tours South Africa (2026, 2027)

years now, and he also works for Derbyshire CCC in his spare time.”

Work has already started ahead of next summer, with 50 hours a week of coaching offered, a mixture of individual and group sections. Speight starts at 6.30am. He goes to the prep school three mornings a week, and spends all day Friday there with Holt. Academy courses are also run in the holidays Speight is also a celebrated painter, of course, and was pleased to see his fellow keeper/batartist Jack Russell painting the school this year in the One Day Cup. “I finished painting the school last year, and it’s now outside the headmaster’s study. I have done a couple of Harry Brook, who I coached at Sedbergh. I gave him one for his birthday present, holding his bat up and looking at the sky when he scored 317 in the Test at Multan in October 2024. He then gave me the scorecard, which he signed, so I need to add that to the picture.”

Speight still follows the fortunes of Sussex and Durham, and Yorkshire; as well as Brook, he has coached Matt Revis, George Hill and Dom Bess.

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Across its history, Repton School has produced more than 150 first-class cricketers

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

ROSSALL SCHOOL Broadway, Fleetwood, Lancashire FY7 8JW Established 1844 Number of pupils 826 Head of cricket Josh Boyne Professional Richard Gleeson Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U16, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB, U11AB, U10AB | Girls: 1st XI, U16, U15, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB, U11, U10 Fixtures The school plays more than 130 fixtures per year, with notable fixtures against MCC, XL Club, British Army development team and Free Foresters. They also face touring sides from Australia. The annual fixture list

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includes Sedbergh School, Lancaster Royal Grammar School, Merchant Taylors’ Crosby, Birkenhead School and Cheadle Hulme School Facilities Rossall have two grass squares adjacent to each other, overlooked by the Dick Richards Cricket Pavillion, equipped with electronic scoreboard and the school’s iconic chapel. A junior square is located by the school’s observatory. There is also a four-lane indoor cricket hall, with Bola Bowling machines, spin mats and full run-up lengths for bowlers Club/county affiliation They have links with local clubs Blackpool CC, Fleetwood CC, Fylde CC, Great Eccleston CC and Thornton Cleveleys CC. Many of those use the school’s facilities. Rossall also run a local state primary softball competition each summer Best prospect Following the BBC documentary Freddie Flintoff’s Field of Dreams, Adnan Miakhel joined the school in Year 11. He has risen to be selected for Lancashire at under-18

ROSSALL SCHOOL

level, and more recently he made his second-team debut for the county against Yorkshire Cricketers of note Toby Lester (Lancashire), Liam Botham (Hampshire), Harry Goodwin (Gloucestershire), Thomas Higson (Derbyshire, Lancashire), Nigel Howard (England), Ham Lambert (Ireland), Geoffrey Marsland (Gloucestershire), Vernon Royle (Lancashire, England), Michael Melluish (Middlesex) Brief history There have been two books written by Gerry Wolstenholme on the first-class cricketers at Rossall. Liam Botham was retrospectively awarded his Wisden Schools Cricketer of the Year for his performances in 1994 (774 runs

Boyne, 28, is a former National Counties batter and offspinner for Cumberland.

The story of Adnan Miakhel He has brought in exhas put Rossall School cricket Blackpool CC team-mate firmly on the map.

Richard Gleeson, one of the The Afghan refugee – a leftquickest bowlers in England, arm pace-bowling allrounder as a high-profile cricket – was a Year 13 pupil at the professional. school when he made his “To have Richard into debut for Lancashire 2nd XI school over the winter to in April.

Josh Boyne Head of cricket lead sessions with our young “He’s honestly one of seamers on their white or the best kids I’ve ever pink-ball skills is so valuable and just one of worked with,” said head of cricket Josh Boyne. the amazing opportunities “We made him captain this year and he was so we provide for our aspiring committed. cricketers.

“The number of times he was up at 6.30 in the “Richard uses our facilities to morning hitting balls in the indoor school. prep for his own cricket, too.

“If I was coaching the boys he’d pitch in to take “When the kids see him in The an under-13 girls coaching session.”

Hundred clocked at 94.1mph Miakhel, 19, left Rossall in the summer and it’s pretty incredible for them to is now on a gap year in Australia, playing for say, ‘I did a pace-bowling session Collegians CC in the Sale-Maffra Cricket with him a few weeks ago!’”

Association in Victoria.

Boyne calls Rossall’s 2025 Boyne said: “We really hope he can make season “one of transition”. The the most of his experience in Australia. When 1st XI had a last-ball defeat to you think about Adnan’s journey, it’s pretty Kirkham Grammar in the area incredible to see what he has achieved and that final of the National T20. is testament to the hard work and dedication he But the side went unbeaten in has shown, alongside all the support provided to their set of declaration games him by those at school.”

@ 70.4; 54 wickets @ 10) Cultural cricketers Sir Thomas Beecham (Founder of London Philharmonic Orchestra and Royal Philharmonic Orchestra), Peter Winterbottom (Rugby) Finest moment The school hosted the Lashings World XI in 2010, a team that consisted of Inzamam-Ul-Haq, Russel Arnold and Hamish Marshall.

In more recent years, the boys’ 1st XI secured emphatic wins against MCC, XL Club and UK Armed Forces in the same 2022 season Recent progress The school have made cricket the focus sport for all in the summer Future plans Plans are afoot to develop a brand new four-lane outdoor net facility

against prestigious adult clubs. And in a visit by an Australian school side, several Year 10 boys stepped up with big performances.

Boyne added: “We are absolutely delighted that Rossall School has once again been recognised in this guide. This accolade is a testament to the dedication, talent, and passion of our players, coaches, parents and wider school community who continually strive to elevate cricket at Rossall.

“We have worked hard to build a highperformance culture while maintaining an inclusive and enjoyable environment for all who play. Our programme is designed to nurture not only skilled cricketers but also create respectful, resilient individuals who embody the spirit of the game.

“This recognition is also a reflection of the exciting progress we’ve made both on and off the field – from improved facilities and coaching pathways to our team performances and individual achievements.

“Cricket is thriving at Rossall, and we look forward to continuing to grow the game and the opportunities and experiences it can provide for our young people.”

www.rossall.org.uk • admissions@rossall.org.uk • 01253 774201 82 | thecricketer.com

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We set high expectations because we believe in every child’s capacity to thrive, and we know that real success happens when challenge is matched with care.”

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

ROYAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL, GUILDFORD

High Street, Guildford, Surrey GU1 3BB Established 1509 Number of pupils 1,310 Head of cricket Richard Black Professional Matt Cussans Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13 ABCDEF. U12 ABCDEF Fixtures The school plays block

fixtures against Trinity, Reed’s, KCS Wimbledon, Hurstpierpoint College, Abingdon, Cranleigh, St Paul’s, Hampton and St George’s Weybridge Facilities The school has 12 artificial outdoor nets, five indoor nets and two wheel-on cages for grass practice sessions Club/county affiliations The school has links with Surrey and affiliations with Guildford CC and Wonersh CC. They also host the MCC Foundation

ROYAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL, GUILDFORD

Best prospect Oliver Pickup, a talented right-handed batsman and right-arm leg-spin bowler who has been part of the Surrey development pathway since the Under-11 Cricketers of note Bob Willis (Surrey, Warwickshire, England) Brief history The annual Royal Grammar School Festival is held on a rotational basis at all the Royal Grammar Schools in the country.

Guildford have won this eight times in the last 17 years. In 2017 and 2019, the 1st XI toured Sri Lanka and in 2023 visited Dubai for the first time Cultural cricketers Jack Clifford (England rugby), Martin Tyler (sports commentator), Simon Bird (actor) What sets the school apart?

According to historical records, it was documented in approximately 1552 that pupils were engaging in the game of cricket. This report is considered to be the earliest specific mention of the

sport. David Frith, a renowned cricket historian, writer and former editor of The Cricketer, supports this claim Finest moment on the field In recent times, the school won the RGS Cricket Festival in 2021 Recent progress The team participation has reached unprecedented levels and they are fielding more teams than ever.

As part of expanded activities, the school engage in matches against girls’ schools, specifically Guildford High School and Sutton High School. Additionally, they have also participated in mixed matches alongside these schools Future plans The school plans to broaden offerings by establishing connections with additional local girls’ schools. The aim is to foster increased participation and engagement in sports by providing pupils with more opportunities to play and compete.

They plan to maintain the MCC Hub, which is a prestigious affiliation and is a testament to their ability to provide a top-notch facility for training and matches Tours Sri Lanka (2017 & 2019), Dubai (2023)

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RUGBY SCHOOL

RUGBY SCHOOL Lawrence Sheriff Street, Rugby, Warwickshire CV22 5EH Established 1567 Number of pupils 865 Director of cricket Michael Powell (Warwickshire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U17 Cup. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U15 Girls’ cricket The school has three senior girls’ teams as well as cup sides at the Under-17 and Under-15s Fixtures Rugby School play every Saturday and some midweek fixtures. They have played the MCC for over 175 years, but, notably, take on Marlborough in a two-day match.

The girls now also play Marlborough and a two-day game against Northamptonshire CCC Facilities The are eight indoor lanes, in two sport centres, eight to 12 grass nets, eight cricket pitches, with

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stitched pitches available, including a practice square of stitched pitches on the 1st XI Boys’ and Girls’ Ground.

The indoor hall has several bowling machines Club/county affiliation A “360” programme, where pupils obtain coaching qualifications with schools across the local community Best prospect Amu Surenkumar plays professionally for Warwickshire Bears, while Levi Gekis plays for Warwickshire men’s 2nd XI Cricketers of note ER Wilson, Pelham Warner, Jacob Bethell and Maia Bouchier (all England), RA Boddington (Lancashire), JL.Bryan (Kent), MD Lyon and MM Walford (both Somerset), BH Lyon and MA Eagar (both Gloucestershire),

going to the state school next door, getting to Edgbaston was difficult.

After overseeing a day on “Now, local people can which his Girls’ and Boys’ 1st come and watch matches XIs claimed national titles at here every year and we Lord’s on the same day, you’d can only grow in our aim of expect Michael Powell to providing more opportunities wax lyrical about that historic for young boys and girls,” he double. says.

While he is rightly proud of “My overriding philosophy that achievement, the former here is to create opportunities Warwickshire captain is keen Michael Powell Director of cricket for children to access cricket.” to point out Rugby School’s That philosophy has brought success on success comes from a culture of inclusivity the pitch too, with the impressive national he and his teams have created over the past double coming in a summer in which Rugby’s nine years.

Powell is motivated by his own experience and girls also recorded innings victory against Northamptonshire Under-18s in their first ever wants to make Rugby a hub for cricket in the two-day game. local community, with the triumphant return There is also a focus on senior players of Warwickshire games to the school being a “paying it forward” by mentoring their younger prime example. teammates. Girls hailed as “magnificent” “Looking back at my time in the late 1980s

by Powell in this field include captain Elena Newbould, Amu Surenkumar, Georgie Flack and Niamh Robertson-Jack, who is a dual youth international for Scotland in both cricket and rugby union.

Boys including Jordan Strydom, Charlie Taylor and Gabe Downes are mentioned in the same breath.

On the eve of the Lord’s final, recent alumnus Jacob Bethell presented the teams with their shirts for the final, while they also received a heartfelt video message from Maia Bouchier, another Old Rugbeian who has gone on to international success with England.

“It was a very successful year that culminated in what happened at Lord’s and they took a lead role in mentoring during the season,” adds Powell.

“The younger ones are mentored by the older ones.

“The thing I’m most proud of is the culture that we’ve created here.”

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Richard Montgomerie (Northamptonshire and Sussex) Brief history Cricket has been played on the Close from the early 19th Century and scorebooks date back to 1831. The highlight from the 1830s to the 1850s was ‘The Tall vs the Short’. 5ft 6 was the dividing point and records show they were competitive Cultural cricketers Herbert Hayton Castens (the first South African rugby and cricket captain), Giles Clarke (former ECB chairman), William Yardley (dramatist), Rupert Brooke (poet) What sets the school apart? The Rugby School XI wear ‘duck egg’ coloured shirts on the field of play Finest moment on the field The report from the 1979 Marlborough match read: “Rugby were left with 177 to make in 80 minutes; the captain, David Cutter, reached this target with a mighty six off the penultimate ball.”

Recent progress Boys’ and girls’ Under-18 sides both winning their national finals at Lord’s on the same day Future plans Rugby host Warwickshire One Day Cup matches in August, inviting local schoolchildren to see county cricket on the ‘Close’. Girls will have a stronger fixture list as schools and counties develop their programmes

SCARBOROUGH COLLEGE

SCARBOROUGH COLLEGE Filey Road, Scarborough, Yorkshire YO11 3BA Established 1896 Number of pupils 575 Head of cricket Piet Rinke Professional Stephen Parry (Lancashire), Ryan Sidebottom (England) Teams Boys: Nine: year 9-13. Six junior: year 1-8. Girls: Four: year 9-13, five junior: year 1-8. One mixed team Girls’ cricket There is a strong girls programme with nine teams in total across the senior and junior schools Fixtures There are 107 senior games and 87 in the junior section of the school. The boys and girls both play the MCC during their seasons Facilities There are two grass cricket squares, four all-weather cricket nets, four indoor cricket nets and four softball fields. They also use five different local club grounds (Scarborough CC, Flixton CC, Wykeham CC, Malton and Old Malton CC, Brompton CC)

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Club/county affiliation The school hosts the Scarborough MCC Foundation Hub and has partnerships with Yorkshire and Lancashire CCCs, which includes hosting many youth age grade county fixtures and an annual county Girls’ festival. The school also partnered with Her Game Too, an initiative that promotes gender equality in sport Best prospects Mathew Firbank (Yorkshire and England Under-19s), Joe Thompson (Yorkshire 2nd XI), Joshua Branch and Shaquan Belle (both Barbados Under-19) Cricketers of note Moeez Raza (Denmark Under-19s), Chris Gilbert, David Byas, Simon Dennis (all Yorkshire), Richard Doughty (Gloucestershire) Brief history Cricket has always played an integral part at Scarborough College, with the pavilion erected in 1911. In the 1950s, cricket started to feature more heavily before regular matches against local school were established in the 1960s. In 2020, the school established a Cricket Centre of Excellence, which started with six players but has now risen to 100 pupils Cultural cricketers Phillip Mann (author), Mark Precious (hockey), Wilf Proudfoot MP What sets the school apart?

The point of difference is that they create individuals who continue playing cricket after they leave their

education journey, from recreational cricket to the professional setup but most importantly try to keep the game fun Finest moment on the field Winning the Under-15 National One Day Cup in 2025

explained: “I think a lot of the love, growing the love of the game for us starts in It paints a picture about the reception and those are kids culture of cricket and just how aged three and four. successful their 2025 season “A lot of the skill-based was at Scarborough College stuff is cricket-orientated as that when the hockey season well and I’m trying to grow restarted this year, pupils the passion of it. Every time across the school were using that we can incorporate their sticks to shadow-bat. a cricket ethos into their They thrived on the field Piet Rinke Head of cricket game sessions and their ball as the Under-15s won the skills activities, that’s what National One Day Cup and happens. I mean, just silly little games that are off it too as they fielded three senior boys teams played, for example, we put a cricket bat and a and two senior girls teams for the first time in tennis ball in their hand. So it really starts at a their history. They even had a fixture for a girls very early age and trying to grow the love and Under-8 side last season. the passion of the game.”

It encapsulates a cricket programme at the The programme can then develop into the school which fostered a “love and passion” for production of professional players, helped by the game from a very young age. the opening of a school of excellence in 2020 The school’s head of cricket Piet Rinke

Recent progress The introduction of new outdoor all-weather purposebuilt cricket nets Future plans There are plans to build a new all- weather multi use games area for further training facilities and a cricket pavilion

and a tiered system, split into gold, silver and bronze, for individualised training for pupils.

When it was first started, they had six on individualised programmes, which has now risen to 58 this year.

“We give them as near enough a professional set-up and getting them ready to be on a professional pathway as much as what we possibly can in amongst the school environment,” Rinke added. “Obviously, first and foremost, education is still the first priority here. And then cricket, if the players or students choose to try and follow cricket, we provide as close an opportunity to them as getting into it.

“There are time constraints and commitments that the players and the students need to do in terms to fulfil their academic lessons. So, we run sessions from 7am, and then when it gets really busy come January, February, March time, some days we’ll go as far as working or running sessions until 10.30pm.”

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SEAFORD COLLEGE

SEAFORD COLLEGE The Drive, Petworth, West Sussex GU28 0NB Established 1884 Number of pupils 960 Head of cricket Chris Adams (Derbyshire, Sussex, England) Teams Boys: Seaford College have over 50 competitive teams with A-D teams from Year 5 through to Year 13.

Girls: There are girls’ teams in all age groups Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket is a core part of the summer programme and with the continuing growth of girls’ cricket, the school expect to increase their fixtures Fixtures The school play Saturday block fixtures throughout the summer and Prep School games every Wednesday. The boys’ 1st XI, U15A, U14A, 13A and 12A are in the National and County Cup competitions. The senior girls are in the Sussex Independent Schools Cup and the U17A, U15A, 14A, U13A and U12A girls’ teams play national competitions Facilities There are nine cricket

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grounds, two outdoor net facilities, two portable cages for practice and six indoor nets. In 2024, a state-ofthe-art five-lane net facility was opened as a performance centre for girls’ cricket. There is a marquee which sits over three artificial wickets for the Winter Performance Programme

Club/county affiliation Hampshire, Sussex and Surrey as well as Chichester CC, Middleton CC, Guildford CC, Petworth CC and West Chiltington CC Best prospect Nantes Oosthuizen was awarded a rookie contract by Sussex. Allrounder Lottie Curling and wicketkeeper-batter Mollie Adams

experience”, including spells in which his coach saw him “terrify some schoolboy According to head of cricket, cricketers”. When he left the Chris Adams, Seaford club and the Surrey pathway, College’s cricket programme Adams recommended is “inclusive, it’s supportive, him to Sussex director of it’s fun, it’s vibrant and if you cricket, Paul Farbarce, and are good enough to go on and he impressed enough at a be a professional, then it’s trail to sign a rookie deal, also an environment that can which was extended for the deliver that for you”.

Chris Adams Head of cricket 2026 season.

An example of the latter Adams brings international was when Sussex signed fast experience both as a player and coach to his bowler Nantes Oosthuizen before the 2025 role at Seaford. He has noticed a shift in talent season, the influence of Seaford College and identification for players with a “point of Adams, was mentioned. Adams was impressed difference” but he still instils that “it’s not always by his potential and physical attributes that important how, it’s how many” in terms of and encouraged him to join the school for runs and wickets.

Sixth Form.

When he joined, Adams was keen to Inspired by the school’s ethos – “we try and incorporate “all the elements of the professional do our best for every student in and outside of world” into his programme. But there was also the classroom” – he joined, had an “amazing

are in the Hampshire Academy Cricketers of note Jeremy Groome, Adrian Jones, Charlie Tear, Nantes Oosthuizen (all Sussex) and Luc Benkenstein (Essex) Brief history Seaford moved to Lavington Park in 1946 and have played on the 450 acres of parkland since Cultural cricketers Rob Andrew, Rob Henderson (both British and Irish Lions), Gareth Neame (producer), Tom Odell, Matthew Rose (singers), Toby Stephens (actor) and Anthony Buckerbridge (author) What sets the school apart? The beautiful surroundings of Lavington Park and the inclusivity of their sporting ethos. They foster a love for learning cricket and encourage everyone to participate Finest moment on the field In 2022, Boys’ 1st XI performances progressed to the South East Regional National T20 Final, the U17 Girls’ team had a run to the national plate final Recent progress Former Southern Vipers cricketer, Charlotte Taylor, has been appointed as a girls’ cricket coach Future plans There are 60 state school local children coming in to experience a range of sports and sports coaching, with cricket at the heart of the programme

a realisation that it should incorporate all levels of ability.

“It didn’t take me very long to realise that I had to adapt and be very flexible with my approach because 90 per cent of the students that participate in cricket actually don’t want to be professional cricketers,” he explained. “It’s only a small 10 per cent or so at the top in each year group where you might ask the question, does anybody want to go on and be a professional cricketer? There are only a few hands go up.

“There are layers in terms of how we deliver cricket at the school. There’s the complete recreational element to it. The boys and the girls that just want to play cricket because they enjoy it and they want to experience it and develop their game.”

The school have also recently brought in former Southern Vipers spinner Charlotte Taylor to lead the girls’ section of the winter programme and, according to Adams, her impact has been “nothing short of fabulous”.

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SEDBERGH SCHOOL // SHERBORNE SCHOOL

SEDBERGH SCHOOL Station Rd, Sedbergh LA10 5HG Established 1525 Number of pupils 570 Head of cricket Jimmy Anyon (Sussex, Warwickshire) Teams Boys: Eight teams. Girls: Five teams Girls’ cricket They look to mirror the boys’ programme with cup competitions, winter coaching and an end-of-season festival Fixtures There are over 160 games across the school, the MCC game and

SHERBORNE SCHOOL Abbey Rd, Sherborne DT9 3AP Established 1550 Number of pupils 600 Master in charge Hugh Tatham Professional Ryan Buckley (Durham) Teams Boys: 13 teams, 1st XI-6th XI senior, U17 XI, U15 ABC, U14ABCD. Girls: N/A Girls’ cricket There is increased cooperation with their sister school Sherborne Girls to offer coaching and match opportunities to their best

the BOWS festival being the most notable fixtures. The school also play games against county academy sides during the season Facilities There are four cricket grounds, six artificial outdoor nets and six indoor nets across two sports halls Club/county affiliation Cumbria Cricket use the Sedbergh indoor nets for their winter training programme Best prospect George Cameron had an impressive debut for the 1st XI in 2025 whilst in year 10. He is a strong fast bowler and top order batter currently in the Yorkshire pathway Cricketers of note Arthur Lupton,

Harry Brook, Matthew Revis, George Hill (all Yorkshire), Charles Peat (Middlesex), Mandy MitchellInnes (Somerset & England), NAP Meadows (Wellington), SAB Daniels (Glamorgan), Jamie Harrison (Durham), Jordan Clark (Lancashire & Surrey), Tom Aspinwall (Lancashire), Becky Glen (Scotland), Ella Telford (Lancashire Thunder & Northern Diamonds), Mahika Gaur (Lancashire Thunder & England) Brief history Cricket has been played at the school since the 1840s with the picturesque Knowles Pavilion added in 1914. The biggest period of success

was since the turn of the century with multiple under-18s and UNDER15s National T20 finals wins and appearances Cultural cricketers Will Greenwood, and Will Carling (both rugby) What sets the school apart? The first XI ground is one of the most beautiful in the country with the pavilion on a grass bank square of the ticket with Winder Hill in the background. The surface offers pace and bounce with Lancashire using it for a fixture every year Finest moment on the field The school won National T20 Titles at the Under-18 level in 2017 as did the Under-15s in 2007 and 2019 Recent progress The cricket numbers have continued to grow and the girls have made good progress in the national indoor competitions and were the U17 T20 plate runners up Future plans The school have their winter program on their agenda and are looking to add more coaching slots for the promising cricketers and increase the indoor cricket played in house competitions Tours Boys to Sri Lanka (2025), Girls to Sri Lanka (2026)

cricketers. As of last year, girls had played in the 2nd XI and there have been competitive games Fixtures Most teams play 10 block fixtures each against schools, including Marlborough, Millfield, Canford and King’s Taunton. There are also two declaration games against MCC and Free Foresters. The final week of term is given over to the annual Ruth Strauss Foundation Cricket Week Facilities There are six grass wickets and one artificial surface, 11 grass nets, 14 astroturf nets and eight indoor nets

across two sports halls Club/county affiliation The school is a performance centre for Dorset Cricket and the facilities and coaching is utilised by Sherborne CC and Compton House CC Best prospects Barbadian batter Jordan Graham has made a big impression, Fergus O’Connell (Sussex) passed 1000 runs for the 1st XI, and JP Tatham (Somerset) became – aged 14 – the youngest bowler to take a fivewicket haul for the 1st XI since records began in 1864 Cricketers of note Arthur Carr (Nottinghamshire) and David Sheppard (Sussex) - both former England captains, Jimmy Adams (Hampshire) and Ollie Sale (Somerset) Brief history The first Sherborne side dates to 1846 while cricket was first played on ‘The Upper’ in 1856 Cultural cricketers Alec Waugh and John Le Carre (both authors), John Le Mesurier (actor), Gen David Leakey (‘Black Rod’ House

of Commons), Chris Martin and Phil Harvey (Coldplay) What sets the school apart? The infamous match between Dorset and Cheshire when encouraged by his captain - Revd Andrew WingfieldDigby - Dorset’s Graeme Calway bowled an over that cost 60 runs to encourage the Cheshire chase Finest moment on the field The school had their third Ruth Strauss Foundation Cricket Week, with eight Sherborne teams in action. There were 35 matches in five days from T10 to all day declaration games Recent progress Becoming a Performance Centre for Dorset Cricket, alongside the school’s increased cricketing profile through our Ruth Strauss Foundation cricket weeks Future plans A good number of senior boys are now directly involved in coaching younger pupils, with several achieving formal qualifications thecricketer.com | 91

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

SHREWSBURY SCHOOL

SHREWSBURY SCHOOL Ashton Rd, Shrewsbury SY3 7BA Established 1552 Number of pupils 828 Director of cricket Will Hughes Professional Adam Shantry (Northamptonshire, Warwickshire, Glamorgan) Head of girls’ cricket Lara Jones Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U16A, U15AB, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U15, U14. The girls’ 1st XI won the National 100 competition in 2021 and England seamer Issy Wong was at the school for five years Fixtures There are over 300 fixtures in a full season, with festivals for boys and girls of all ages. School opposition includes Repton, Sedbergh, Millfield, Eton and Malvern, while players are tested against Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Glamorgan

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Facilities There are four cricket squares with an LED scoreboard capable of replays and two HD cameras for streaming. A state-ofthe-art four-lane indoor cricket centre, which was refurbished last year, has seven bowling machines Club/county affiliation The school are an MCC Hub, meaning they had local state school pupils to join winter sessions, and have hosted fixtures against local boys and girls MCC Foundation sides Best prospects The current U15A boys side is highly promising, with every one of them representing a county side. Aamna Khan, Cerys

Tippings and Millie Parry – all on the Warwickshire pathway, lead the way for the girls Cricketers of note Issy Wong (England), James Taylor (England, Notts, Leics), Joe Leach and Ed Pollock (both Worcs), David Lloyd (Derbyshire, Glamorgan), Ed Barnard (Warks, Worcs), George Garrett (Kent, Warks). Jack Home and Theo Wylie, who left in July 2024, faced each other in the One Day Cup Brief history Shrewsbury has always been a haven for young cricketers, but the creation of the indoor centre in 2005 has been the catalyst for enormous progress

the rewards of a dual tour to Dubai.

“Some tours are very much Shrewsbury School have in a developmental vein,” some of the best facilities says Hughes. “It’s about and track record of producing making mistakes, but in a less cricketers on the schools judgemental environment, so circuit. But their success in the kids can learn from them. the 2025 season was built “And there’s a lovely story, overseas. where one boy – who was “Our season almost began very much an Under-15B on in February,” says director Will Hughes Director of cricket that tour – ended up playing of cricket Will Hughes. “We for our U15As in September in toured South Africa with our the ESCA final at Arundel. under-18 boys and girls. The boys lost all five “We’re very proud to have reached that stage, games. We were rebuilding after the departure in a competition entered by 950 schools across of eight sixth-formers. the country. Especially with quite a lot of local “But we went on to be quite successful in our lads from our catchment area in Shropshire, summer, exceeding our own expectations.

Staffordshire and Cheshire.”

“Our under-17s reached the national And Shrewsbury boasted three of the six semi-finals. The under-18s reached the last leading girls’ run-scorers in the country in 16 of the National T20 and then won the Silk Aamna Khan (719), Cerys Tippings (536) and Trophy – against Eton, Stowe and Grey College Millie Parry (522).

Bloemfontein.”

“We build character development into The under-15 boys, meanwhile, reaped

Cultural cricketers Charles Darwin (naturalist), Sir Philip Syndey (poet), Martin Rees (astronomer), Nick Hancock and Michael Palin (both broadcasters) What sets the school apart? They host satellite academies, coached by the staff for Glamorgan and Worcestershire and they have links with Warwickshire, Lancashire, Worcestershire, Glamorgan, Shropshire, Staffordshire and Cheshire Finest moment on the field The U17 side retained the 2023 Cricket Paper Cup for the first time in the competition’s history Recent progress In 2024, three pupils represented their country.

Wylie and Home (both England U19), and Freddie Ogilby (Ireland U19) all earned international recognition whilst playing at Shrewsbury Future plans The school plan to add more hybrid pitches to their squares and nets Tours South Africa (2025), UAE (2025), Shrewsbury International School opens in India soon

what we do. Our professional Adam Shantry runs team bonding exercises in the Welsh mountains. There’s a lot of evidence to show that those kind of experiences make you stronger out on the field.”

Shrewsbury have ambitious plans to forge links with India – which, given the axis of power in world cricket and the importance of playing spin, could prove a masterstroke.

“We have a sister international school near Bhopal [Madhya Pradesh],” explains Hughes.

“That will hopefully lead to coach exchanges, so coaches can come over here and ours can attend spin camps. We’re very excited about that.”

But Shrewsbury, an MCC Foundation Hub, have not forgotten their local obligations.

“We’re doing our best to work with local state schools. The take-up hasn’t always been what we’d like.

“But there’s definitely scope for us to host local schools to play on our pitches. That’s something we’re keen to arrange – and hopefully the KnightStokes Cup acts as a catalyst for state schools.”

www.shrewsbury.org.uk • admissions@shrewsbury.org.uk • +44(0) 1743 280 552 92 | thecricketer.com

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

SOLIHULL SCHOOL // ST ALBANS SCHOOL

SOLIHULL SCHOOL

Hampton and Solihull CC are used to help accommodate the fixtures Club/county affiliation They are in partnership with Complete Cricket Academy and have strong links with the Warwickshire Cricket Board and local Birmingham Premier League clubs from around the county Best prospect Isaac Maddy is a righthanded top order batter, medium pace bowler and an outstanding fielder. He is currently representing

Warwickshire U18 Cricketers of note Frank Foster (Warwickshire & England), Stuart Bevins (Worcestershire), Jamie Spiers, Richard Johnson, James Ord, Ethan Brookes, Ashish Chakrapani, Benjamin Blakemore (all Warwickshire) Brief history The school upholds a strong cricket tradition. In recent years they have employed former professional cricketers in David

Hemp and more recently Darren Maddy as director of cricket. In 2023, they appointed a first full time female coach to lead the girls cricket programme Cultural cricketers Michael Buerk (journalist), Simon Mayo (radio presenter), Richard Hammond (television) What sets the school apart?

They have a former Test match groundsman who curates the cricket squares Finest moment on the field The school was boys U13 National Champions in 2016 and runners up at U15 level in 2016 and 2017 as well as at U17 in 2024. The girls U17 won the National Plate in 2023 and were finalists in 2024 Recent progress Girls Cricket is growing from strength to strength, more academic teachers are getting involved with fixtures and practices and all fixtures are being scored on Play Cricket Future plans The school are moving toward the use of cameras to live stream all matches that are played on the 1st XI pitch Tours South Africa (2026)

Scotland) Teams Boys: 16 teams: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABCD, U14ABCD, U13AB, U12AB. Girls: N/A Fixtures About 180 fixtures across all age groups, more if a good cup run.

They play the MCC in April, Merchant Taylors’ School and Forest School Facilities The 1st XI cricket square

has six grass nets plus a portable net on the main square.

There is a hybrid pitch allowing them to play on ‘grass’ when the grass is too wet and St Albans was the first school to have this installed as the ECB pitch inspector was based at the playing fields at the time. There are four other grass squares and three astro pitches, eight grass lanes on the main pitches and eight astro lanes Club/county affiliation There are 10 local schools invited to play in an U10 and an U12 Festival and put on a Primary School Sports Day where all the local primary schools come and have a festival of sport where they engage in a varying number of sporting activities where the emphasis is on participation

Best prospect Sam Calladine currently trains with the Northamptonshire academy. Lower down the school, there are several 4th and 3rd form players in either the Herts or the Middlesex pathway Cricketers of note Josh de Caries (Middlesex) and George Scott (Middlesex & Gloucestershire) Cultural cricketers Tim Rice (lyricist and author) What sets the school apart? The facilities at St Albans are outstanding and they host all the County Cup finals and Regional Club finals for U15s. They have also hosted touring West Indies U19 squads in the past Recent progress Coaches on CPD courses so they know what to coach and that the latest skills and techniques are being implemented.

A full Scheme of Work is available for all the coaches as well as a document showing loads of handy games that encourage participation as well as development Future plans There are plans for a ‘bubble’ or indoor centre, subject to planning Tours India (2025), Guernsey (annually)

793 Warwick Rd, Solihull B91 3DJ Established 1560 Number of pupils 1530 Head of boys’ cricket Darren Maddy (Leicestershire, Warwickshire, England) Head of girls’ cricket Sarah Ginn Teams Boys: In 2025, there were 28 boys teams. Girls: There are 28 teams Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket has grown exponentially and the school play local schools and entered into national competitions at U15, U17 and U18 age groups across various formats Fixtures In 2025, the school played over 330 cricket matches in the senior school involving over 600 pupils. Notable fixtures included the MCC and schools from around the region, Bromsgrove, Repton, Rugby School, Magdalen College, Seaford, Monmouth, Stowe and Wellington School Facilities They have four cricket squares, including four hybrid wickets on the 1st XI square, six ECB approved outdoor nets and four sports hall nets, with four bowling machines.

ST ALBANS SCHOOL Abbey Mill Ln, St Albans AL3 4HB Established 948 AD Number of pupils 886 Master in charge Mark Ilott Professional Ilott (Essex, England), Scott Galloway (Hertfordshire and 94 | thecricketer.com

ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL

ST BENEDICT’S SCHOOL 54 Eaton Rise, London W5 2ES Established 1897 Number of pupils 1,110 Head of cricket Juan Henri Professional Huw Jones (Warwickshire) Teams Boys: 25 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15ABCD, U14ABCD, 13ABCD, U12ABCD. Girls: 6: U14, U13, U12, U11, U10 Girls’ cricket There are six girls teams with the U13, U15 and U18s entered in the national competitions Fixtures There are 140 fixtures, MCC (declaration game), National U13, U15 and U18 competitions for boys, weekly block fixtures, two-day matches against Gosfield School, Ampleforth College Festival Facilities They have an indoor sports hall with two cricket nets with two bowling machines. The school also utilise three state of the art cricket nets at Ealing Trailfinders Cricket Club. There are three cricket pitches on site and two external local club pitches for the cricket programme

Club/county affiliation Partnerships with Ealing Trailfinders Cricket Club and Brentham Cricket Club, and occasional support from Ealing CC and Acton CC Best prospects There are 10 boys who are part of the Middlesex, Surrey and Northamptonshire pathways Cricketers of note David Holt (England U19, France), Ned

Eckersley (Leicestershire, Durham) Brief history Cricket is one of the major sports at St Benedict’s School, Ealing, with a proud and growing tradition. The sport developed significantly over the years, supported by excellent facilities and dedicated coaching What sets the school apart?

The 1st XI has established itself

as a strong and competitive side, with several players earning representative honours Finest moment on the field The 1st XI beat Merchant Taylors’ in the U19 County Cup in 2025. The team also won the Emeriti Schools festival beating New Hall in the final in 2025. The U13A beat Queen Elizabeth Barnet in the County Cup in 2025. Ned Watts finished as the third-highest wicket-taker in Wisden Schools cricket in 2024 Recent progress Cricket in the school is expanding and now run an all year-round cricket programme for all cricketers and have introduced an academy session that aims to push the most talented cricketers in the school. The growth of girls cricket in the school has tripled in the last 2 years Future plans St Benedict’s has developed strong links with the Middlesex pathway, hosting capping ceremonies for the Ealing Borough in the cricket pavilion every year (presented by Angus Fraser). They are hoping to play more fixtures against London Schools and other neighbouring counties

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

ST EDWARD’S SCHOOL, OXFORD Woodstock Rd, Oxford OX2 7NN Established 1863 Number of pupils 810 Head of cricket Ed Ellis Professional Dave Simpkins (Gloucestershire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U16 ABC U15 AB, U14 AB. Girls’: 1st XI, 2nd XI and Junior A, B and C Girls’ cricket The school runs five teams, two of which are at the senior level Fixtures The school plays over 130 fixtures across all year groups, which includes notable fixtures against Stowe, Rugby, Bradfield and MCC for boys and girls Facilities There are six grounds, four indoor net lanes in the Douglas Bader Sports Centre with multiple bowling machines, twelve outdoor astro and grass nets, 18 strips on 1st XI square Club/county affiliation The school host the winter training programme for the Oxfordshire Bulls and Falcons (state school teams) and are the hub for Oxfordshire Women all year Best prospects Aimee Diab, currently a regular in Oxfordshire Women’s 1st XI at 17. Alex Corbett, wicket-keeper batter on Northants Academy. Suri Shah, opened the batting for the 1st XI Girls’ at the age of 14. Evan Cowley, in Year 10, stepped up to open the batting for the 1st XI Cricketers of note H Bencraft (Hampshire), EG Wynyard (Hampshire and England), FW Terry (Somerset and Canada), P Hutchinson (South 96 | thecricketer.com

Africa), AM de Labat (New Zealand), Paul Gibb (Yorkshire, Essex and England), Peter Cranmer (Warwickshire), Eric Dixon (Northamptonshire), Alan Waldron (Hampshire), CM Dickinson (Hampshire), Harrison Ward (Sussex) Ben Charlesworth, Luke Charlesworth, Miles Hammond, Richard Brooke, Tim Hancock (all Gloucestershire), Alex Horton (Glamorgan) Brief history The earliest records of cricket results for the school’s 1st XI date from 1873 and have thrived more recently in the John Harvey Cup Cultural cricketers Kenneth Grahame (author), Douglas Bader (RAF pilot), John Woodcock (journalist) What sets the school apart? St. Edward’s 1st XI ground is less than a mile from the centre of Oxford and includes the ‘Martyrs Pavilion’, designed by award-winning architect John Pawson and completed in 2009 Finest moment on the field The school won the John Harvey Cup four consecutive years (2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016) and Aimee Diab scored the first 100 on Upper 1 this season Recent progress The development of the winter programme, the increase of the number of pupils playing during the summer and the girls cricket programme Future plans Continued progression of the ‘club’ training provision, accessing more boys and girls throughout the winter to allow improvement of performance

ST EDWARD’S SCHOOL, OXFORD // ST GEORGE’S COLLEGE, WEYBRIDGE

ST GEORGE’S COLLEGE, WEYBRIDGE Weybridge Rd, Addlestone, Surrey KT15 2QS Established 1869 Number of pupils 1,000 Head of cricket David Keightley Professionals Jacobi Robinson (Bermuda), Jack Laraman, Henry Thorpe Teams Boys: : 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3XI,U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABC and U12ABCD. Girls’: 1XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC and U12ABC Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket has continued to grow at St George’s College with more hardball cricket than ever before with the U12s and U13 B teams playing hardball this year.

Over the years they have won many Surrey Cricket titles Fixtures The school played over 220 fixtures across boys and girls this season. Their block fixtures are against RGS Guildford, Epsom College, Reed’s, Trinity, KCS Wimbledon and St John’s. The boys and girls play against MCC each year Facilities Six indoor nets with access to video analysis in state-of-the-art activity centre. A gym and two large dance studios which is often used for technical drills. The school use eight retractable outdoor nets, four cages for middle practice and four grass wicket cricket squares. There are also three astroturf wickets Club/county affiliation Weybridge CC, who use the facilities for youth and adult teams every Sunday

Best prospect Will Wright represents Middlesex, including training with their 1st XI in pre-season Cricketers of note Adam and Ben Hollioake (England and Surrey), Tim O’Gorman (Derbyshire), Matt Church (Worcestershire), Will Jacks (England and Surrey) Brief history St George’s College’s cricket records existed in the earliest years of the school. O’Gorman made 11 centuries in his time and had full career with Derbyshire. In the late 1980’s Adam and Ben Hollioake were pupils at the same time as Worcestershire’s MJ Church Cultural cricketers Major General Tony Pigott, David Crane (writer), Michael Gooley (Trailfinders), Philip Jansen (chief executive BT), Richard Moore (Head of MI5), James Tindall (Olympic Hockey player) What sets the school apart? St George’s has hosted an international match between Iceland and Switzerland in 2018 Finest moment on the field Emma Gillespie made her debut for the Girls’ 1XI and got a hat-trick, as an Under-15 Recent progress In pre-season they ran specialised clinics for spinners, pace bowlers and keepers on top of their age group sessions. The school increased their participation Future plans The introduction of league cricket, giving pupils something to play for on weekend blocks. Hoping to provide more B teams the chance of playing competitive cricket through local cup or leagues Tours Dubai (2026)

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

ST LAWRENCE COLLEGE College Road, Ramsgate, Kent CT11 7AE Established 1879 Number of pupils 568 Head of cricket Geraint Jones (Kent, Gloucestershire, England, Papua New Guinea) Teams Boys: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB, Kirby 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, Sports Excellence XI. Girls’: 1st XI, U15A, U14A, U13AB, U12A. Mixed: U11ABCDEF Girls’ cricket St Lawrence play girls’ cricket in both the senior and junior school Fixtures There are over 80 matches, including MCC, Tonbridge School, The King’s School Canterbury, Sevenoaks School, Sutton Valence School, The Canterbury Academy, Band of Brothers Facilities There are four cricket

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

pitches on school site, including one off site (Broadstairs CC), six artificial cricket nets and two indoor cricket nets. The hockey pitch is used for softball cricket training and matches in the summer term and two roll on cricket cages for use on practice wickets Club/county affiliation There is a strong link with Kent as well as Sandwich Town CC, Canterbury CC, Broadstairs CC, Whitstable CC, Chestfield CC Best prospect Lilia Humphries – current Kent EPP player, Kent U18’s Cricketers of note AL Hosie (Hampshire), K Moore (Kent) Brief history The earliest surviving cricket photograph is from 1882 and in 1886 the 1st XI cricket team had their most successful season with 15 wins, one draw and four losses. The most successful year to date was 1927 when the team scored 11 centuries, including the only double-century Cultural cricketers Alfred Bellerby (Olympic long jumper), John Ruddock (actor), Clifford Dyce Sharp (journalist), Alexander Siddig (actor), John Stevens (former commissioner of the Metropolitan Police) What sets the school apart? They have hosted girls’ county and regional youth cricket matches and an annual Cricket Week for both the boys’ 1st XI

professional cricketer.”

Jones joined the school in September 2018 and says St Lawrence College in he has two aims with the Ramsgate, Kent, has received youngsters he coaches. a Barbados boost this year.

“I want them to enjoy their A handful of talented Bajun cricket and leave as better cricketers joined the Kent players. We are quite a school’s ranks last summer. small co-ed school, with These included the daughters around 300 youngsters. I of Corey Collymore, the quick aim to run one boys’ team bowler who won 30 caps for Geraint Jones Head of cricket at each age group, and then West Indies. an A and B team at senior Former Kent and England levels. We also have a thriving girls’ scene at wicketkeeper/bat Geraint Jones is head the school, although they seem slightly keener of cricket at the school. on the training than actual matches, so that is “We have a strong connection with Barbados something that we are working on. cricketer,” the 49-year-old told The Cricketer.

“Our fixtures include The King’s School “Corey Collymore’s daughters have joined us, Canterbury, St Edmund’s School Canterbury along with several other exciting prospects. and Kent College. And we also go slightly further We also have a number of players who are in afield to Ashford School and Benenden School. the Kent regional set-ups, including Umaiza Our A team has a great fixture every year against Malik, who has played for Kent Under-15s and Tonbridge Under-16s.

Under‑18s. She really wants to make it as a

ST LAWRENCE COLLEGE

and the girls’ 1st XI Finest moment on the field R Perfect scored the first and only double century in the school’s history in 1927 against Hythe CC, who were led by England captain Percy Chapman Recent progress They have gained softball pairs cricket fixtures for both boys and girls who are new to cricket Future plans The school have a fundraising project aimed at financing a new pavilion which will provide the school with the ability to host festivals and county age group matches

“The senior boys had a couple of notable wins last summer, including against Kent College.

They had a really positive season. The other years found it a bit harder against strong sides. The younger ages play more T20 and occasionally The Hundred format, while the seniors play T20, 40-over and a few declaration matches. Overall, the picture at St Lawrence is really positive in terms of engagement and numbers.”

The school’s facilities sound good.

“We have three cricket squares, and a junior one. We have also recently had a six-berth artificial net put in, plus a couple of indoor nets in our sports hall.”

Jones was a member of the England men’s team who famously won the Ashes 20 years ago, and they have just had a reunion at Lord’s.

“We met at the Tavern, then MCC invited us into the Writing Room, and we watched the Village Cup final. We haven’t all be in the room like that together since 2005. It hasn’t felt like 20 years, but the pictures say otherwise!”

www.slcuk.com • admissions@slcuk.com • 01843 572931 98 | thecricketer.com

ST PAUL’S SCHOOL

ST PAUL’S SCHOOL Lonsdale Road, London SW13 9JT Established 1509 Number of pupils 1,500 Head of cricket Dr Alexander Langley Professional Nigel Briers (Leicestershire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABCDEF, U11ABCD, U10ABCDEF Fixtures There are 10 Saturday fixtures a season with a variety of Surrey cup matches and midweek friendly matches. The fixture against Merchant Taylors’ is one of the oldest school cricketing matches with the first

MEET THE CRICKET PROFESSIONAL

game dating back to the early 1800s.

The season ends with a four-day round robin festival with The Leys, Fettes College and Monkton Combe School Facilities The school has three full grass squares, three AstroTurf wickets, four ‘flic strip’ wickets for juniors and three multisport pavilions.

For training, there are three portable cages for grass wickets, a total of seven outdoor net lanes, five indoor nets and three bowling machines Club/county affiliation Both Barnes CC and the Old Pauline Club regularly use the indoor facilities during the winter months for pre-season training Best prospect Fergus de Mestre, a left-arm spinner, has been in Surrey’s age-group programme since Under-8s Cricketers of note Percy Fender (Sussex, Surrey and England), Reggie Schwarz (Middlesex and South Africa), Edgar Thomas Killick (Middlesex and England), Krish Patel (Northants) Brief history St Paul’s believe they are amongst the first schools to take up

cricket, originating with the first Duke of Marlborough, John Churchill, in the 1660s Cultural cricketers Patrick Neate (writer), Rory Kinnear (actor), Charlie Fink (songwriter) What sets the school apart? The facilities and tour programme has led directly to success on the field, picking up silverware in Desert Springs this year Finest moment on the field Ned Bowman took 5 for 24 against MCC in 2023 as St Paul’s won by nine wickets and Rory Walter scored 146 not out against Whitgift in 2024 as the team chased down 305

Briers has been at the school in Barnes for a decade, working with Dr Alexander The boys of St Paul’s School Langley, who is head of in south-west London had cricket. the advice of an Australia “We are a highly academic great in their head as they school,” said Briers, “but we batted this summer. had a pretty good season – we The former Leicestershire won 12, lost 4. We’d lost a few captain Nigel Briers learned a good players, so we had four lot from Bobby Simpson, who different year groups playing has recently passed away, in the 1st XI. The boys are when he coached the Foxes. Nigel Briers Professional committed. In the second “Bobby was a fantastic half of the season it really came together. If I influence and empowered me,” said Briers. have county age-group players I look to push “When I got out at Chelmsford once on 102, he them on and play them up. said: ‘Don’t you like getting big scores?” I said: ‘I “I try to keep with the 50-over games as much got 200 once.’ He said: ‘Aww, mate, I got 300!’ as possible. We also had a training camp at (311 versus England at Old Trafford in 1964). He Desert Springs in Spain which exposed them to said ‘next time you get 100, the next 15 runs will a little bit of the Hundred format, and we had be hard, so you get through that, and you will declaration games against Old Paulines and be OK’. I got four more centuries that year and I always thought of what he said. I give that advice MCC. Then at the end of the season we have a festival with Fettes (Edinburgh), the Leys to my young players now.”

Recent progress They have bolstered the overseas tours programme, incorporated St Paul’s Girls’ School into the coaching environment, won The Cricketer School’s 100 Competition at Desert Springs in Spain in 2025. Off the field, the school raised money for the Ruth Strauss Foundation in collaboration with Dulwich College Future plans The school have ongoing plans for a two-tier pavilion and developing cricketing links with St Paul’s Girls’ School to play girls and boys games in some block fixtures Tours Cape Town (2026), Desert Springs (2026)

(Cambridge) and Monkton Combe (Bath), so they get a bit of T20.

“When they play 50-over county age-group cricket they are told to get on with it; but at school level I say, “You need to take the game deep and use all 50 overs.” I try to bring some professionalism – I want to create a performance environment. The boys probably think I am quite demanding but that is in my nature. Darren Maddy called me ‘Sergeant Major’ at Grace Road.

“We are lucky to have our own playing fields on site near Hammersmith Bridge. The grounds have improved enormously, and we still hope to have a new two-tier pavilion at some stage.”

Briers, who played for Leicestershire from 1971 to 1995, captaining them in the last six of those years, is also celebrating the Foxes’ promotion.

“It’s been a long time coming but I’m delighted.

The team seem to have maintained a consistent level of performance and hopefully they can rise to the new challenges ahead to keep them in the top tier.”

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ST PETER’S SCHOOL, YORK

ST PETER’S SCHOOL, YORK

St Peter’s School, Clifton, York, YO30 6AB Established 627 AD Number of pupils 1,200 Head of cricket Gareth Sharp Professionals Sam Grant (Leicestershire), Chris Wood, Rachel Hildreth Teams Boys and Girls: 1st XI – U9 Girls’ cricket It is growing in popularity, especially in the Prep school. The school now have a female lead for the Girls’ programme Fixtures The school play upto-and including 20 fixtures per week from U9 to U18. They have developed rivalries against Ampleforth and Pocklington, which go back over 130 years. Sedbergh, Scarborough College, MCC, Yorkshire, Warwickshire, Durham, and Lincolnshire EPP sides provide a challenge Facilities Two four-lane indoor sports halls; four bowling machines, eight-lane astro nets, two grass pad net areas, three turf grounds and one

astro pitch Club/county affiliation York Cricket Club & Yorkshire County Cricket Club. St Peter’s Cricket staff delivered several coaching sessions to both fee-paying and state schools in the York area last winter. St Peter’s facilities are used by MCC Hub and several local ECB Premier League clubs for winter training Best prospect Will Bennison (Yorkshire) earned a rookie contract in 2024. He played in the One Day Cup and scored a 2nd XI double hundred against Warwickshire Cricketers of note Norman Yardley, Frank Mitchell, Stephen Coverdale, Jonny Bairstow (all Yorkshire), David Kirby (Leicestershire)

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Brief history The first recorded game of cricket played at St Peter’s was in 1853 when the School played Pocklington twice, each side winning a game Cultural cricketers Harry Gration (journalist), Toby Latham (author), John Barry (composer) What sets the school apart? The Yorkshire Diamonds used the school in 2017, 2018 and 2019 as their base during the KIA Super League Finest moment on the field They were crowned Boys U18 National T20 Champions in 2024, beating Millfield at Lord’s. Bennison and Alex Jenkins put on a 260-run partnership in a T20 game against a Yorkshire Schools XI that also set the record

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for the highest schoolboy score (279 for 1) in a T20 game Recent progress The continuing growth of the girls cricket programme with new female coach.

The girls are now also part of two festivals at U15 and U18 that mirror the same schools as the boys Future plans There are plans for a new indoor cricket centre in 2027 and continued progress with all partnerships and working projects, including Apex Cricket Festivals, UA92 Performance Psychologists collaboration, Lee Waters EyeTracking training and research, Dineticq Biomechanics programmes for bowlers Tours UAE (2026)

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

STAMFORD SCHOOL

STAMFORD SCHOOL Southfields House, St Paul’s St, Stamford PE9 2BQ Established 1532 Number of pupils 1,120 Head of cricket Josh Weller Professional Matthew Hoggard (Yorkshire and England) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U17A, U15A-C, U14A-C, U13A-D, U12-A-C, U11 A-C, U10 A-E, U9 A-E, U8 A-E. Girls’: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15 A-B, U14 A-B, U13 A-C, U12 A-C, U11 A-D, U10 A-C Girls’ cricket There is an extensive girls’ cricket programme Fixtures There are over 250 fixtures a year across both boys and girls and the most notable fixture is when the 1st XI boys take on the MCC Facilities The school has six outside artificial lanes, two grass squares, four astroturf wickets, and two sports halls with four net lanes in each. The use of three bowling machines and

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

and one Merlyn bolwing machine Club/county affiliation They host local junior school cricket festivals, in which eight to 10 schools will come and play a softball tournament on the grounds. Plans are in place for new partnerships with other clubs Best prospect Faith Teekasingh, an opening batter who bowls off-spin for Leicestershire U18 and The Blaze Academy. Averages over 40 for the girls 1st XI and has played at this level since Year 9 Cricketers of note Shan Masood (Pakistan), Joey Evison (Kent), Zak Chappell (Derbyshire), Josh Hull (Leicestershire and England), Alex

Green (Leicestershire) Brief history There is a proud tradition of cricket at Stamford School, dating back over a century.

The school has produced several first-class and international players, including the current Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood and county professionals like Joey Evison and Josh Hull, who has played for England. There are excellent facilities, strong coaching, and regular fixtures against top schools. The introduction of former England bowler Matthew Hoggard, as a coach, has helped sustain its reputation as a leading cricketing school in the East Midlands

summer,” says Weller.

“Our aim now is to make sure that we get our first girl Stamford School is gaining alumnus turning professional. something of a reputation for “That will be a really big producing exactly the kind of moment for us as a school.” tall, fast bowlers England like.

That milestone may not be Recent alumnus Josh Hull far away, with Faith Teekasingh has already been capped by on the books of The Blaze. his country at Test level, while Already a county Leicestershire teammate cricketer in her own right Alex Green is eyed as one for Josh Weller Head of cricket with Leicestershire and the future after collecting Huntingdonshire, Teekasingh a dozen England Under-19 appearances and finishing as joint second highest hit a record-breaking 172 for The Blaze’s academy side over the summer and has also wicket-taker in this summer’s One Day Cup. played regional representative cricket for ECB Now, the challenge for Stamford head of North and Cricket East. cricket, Josh Weller, is to get the school’s Ellie Rowley, the latest offering from girls’ cricket programme to replicate that Stamford’s ever-growing production line of professional success. successful quick bowlers, is another who is “We’ve always been ahead of the curve with progressing through the Trent Bridge-based our girls’ programme and that time and effort Blaze’s ranks, while a number of other girls are we put in has really shown when it comes to

Finest moment on the field The finest moment has been the girls’ U17s reaching the national final in the T20 after beating Rugby School in the semi-final before narrowly losing to Epsom College Recent progress The school have made significant progress this year in being able to offer 1-2-1 coaching to sixth form students with the cricket professional. Students can progress further through the winter programme Future plans To work closely with local prep schools and state junior schools to deliver cricket masterclasses Tours India (2024), Sri Lanka (2026)

also part of Northamptonshire youth sides.

This volume of talent has propelled Stamford’s U17 and U13 sides to national finals in recent years, with hopes the girls will now go one better in 2026.

With 12 of the boys’ 1st XI – including Green – leaving in 2025, Weller is preparing the new squad for a year of transition.

Their esteemed recent alumni will provide inspiration, as well as a coaching staff that includes former England seamer Matthew Hoggard.

But Weller is keen to ensure those striving to emulate the likes of Hull and Green don’t break their bodies in doing so.

“We have a big thing about mentoring kids and teaching them about their bodies,” he adds.

“We tell them if something doesn’t feel right, they need to take care about it rather than carry on and be in pain.

“We just want everyone to keep enjoying their cricket, whatever level they’re playing at.”

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS STOWE SCHOOL

STOWE SCHOOL // TAUNTON SCHOOL

Stratford CC and Dinton CC Best prospects The school currently have five players Stowe, Buckinghamshire on EPP programmes who MK18 5EH are all hopeful of academy contracts at the end of Established 1923 this season Number of pupils 920 James Knott Cricketers of note Director of cricket Director of cricket Ben Duckett (England, James Knott (Surrey Northamptonshire, and Bedfordshire) and Nottinghamshire), Graeme Professional Andrew O’Connor Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th White (Northamptonshire and XI, 5th XI, U17A, U15ABC, U14ABCD. Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14 Girls’ cricket There are three girls’ teams who train three times and play one match per week Fixtures Over 150 fixtures, including the Silk Trophy (Eton, Shrewsbury, Stowe and a touring team), which rounds off the season and is of a very high standard Facilities Four lanes of indoor nets, an array of bowling machines, one Bola fielding machine, 11 lanes of turf nets, 10 lanes of astroturf nets, seven turf squares Club/county affiliation Strong links with Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire plus Buckingham Town CC, Great Brickhill, Stony

Nottinghamshire), Mark Nelson, Ben Howgego, Rob White (all Northamptonshire), Sean Morris (Hampshire) Brief history Stowe opened with its first 99 pupils in 1923, with the school becoming co-educational in 2003. A partnership with the National Trust has helped maintain the grounds while the 1st and 2nd XI squares sit either side of what was once the palace of the Dukes of Buckingham

Cultural cricketers Eric Clapton (musician) What sets the school apart?

Former England selector Ed Smith described it as his favourite school ground. The school has a comprehensive training programme, which focuses on individual player development and covers technique, fitness, and the tactical and mental aspects of cricket Finest moment on the field Winning the Silk Trophy in 2021 – going into the final day, three teams could have won the title before Stowe clinched the trophy Recent progress The girls cricket programme now mirrors the boys with scholarships, year round training, one to one coaching, comprehensive fixture list, three-day pre-season, festivals and tours Future plans The school have secured funding for four new lanes of astro turf nets. They have hosted state schools for coaching days and match days with prep schools and have hosted local clubs for match days as well Tours There will be tours for the senior teams in 2026

TAUNTON SCHOOL

Somerset EPP and played for the academy Cricketers of note Tom Abell (Somerset), Jodie Dibble (England Women), Aftab Habib (England, Essex, Leicestershire, Middlesex), John Jameson (England, Warwickshire), Jack White (England, Somerset), Thomas Jameson (Warwickshire), Piran Holloway (Somerset and Warwickshire), Adam Dibble, Ricky Bartlett, Alan Marshall and Nick Pringle (all Somerset) Cultural cricketers Geoffrey Cox (Tory MP), Alan Gibson (Cricket writer) and Jeremy Wright (attorney

general) What sets the school apart?

Current England batting coach Marcus Trescothick regularly coaches at the school Finest moment on the field Beating MCC, for the 2nd year running by chasing 290 was a fine moment, Kian Roberts scored a hundred, which means he goes to Lord’s for a hospitality day Recent progress The introduction of a girls lead coach has assisted the progression of the girls programme and the number of fixtures has increased with more girls playing

Staplegrove Rd, Taunton TA2 6AD Established 1847 Number of pupils 1,202 Director of cricket Peter Sanderson Professional Marcus Trescothick (Somerset) and Dave Roberts (Northamptonshire) Teams Boys: 1st XI - 4th XI, 14s/15s A, B and C. Girls’: 1st XI and two Junior U15s teams Girls’ cricket The girls’ programme is the fastest-increasing participation sport in the school. Girls have been able to take cricket as a games option, which has been a game changer and the standard of cricket being played is amazingly high in comparison with two years ago Fixtures Each team, including the girls’ teams, play eight block fixtures with the most notable fixture v MCC Facilities The school have the equivalent of 12 grass and nine outdoor artificials nets, this has 104 | thecricketer.com

been increased in quality with the new multi-use games area. Six grounds for cricket but also five extra pitches that are not on proper squares.

These facilities are used by Somerset Academy and youth teams as well as local clubs that are sponsored by Taunton School. Indoor there are seven net lanes in two different halls, three bowling machines and an ability to play indoor matches Club/county affiliation Taunton has strong links with local clubs and helps with their coaching as well as facilities. There are competitions for local schools and support for the South West Counties by hosting matches and running coaching sessions, particularly Cornwall Best prospects Kian Roberts, an allrounder, in the Somerset set up and Elle Golsworthy, an exciting batting/ spinner in Year 13, who is part of the

THE KING’S SCHOOL, CHESTER // THE KING’S SCHOOL IN MACCLESFIELD

THE KING’S SCHOOL, CHESTER

Wrexham Rd, Chester CH4 7QL Established 1541 Number of pupils 1,150 Director of cricket Mark Baker Professional Luke McCoy (Cheshire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB. Girls’: U14, U13, U12AB Girls’ cricket There are some fixtures for four girls’ teams at the school with a mixture of soft and

THE KING’S SCHOOL IN MACCLESFIELD Alderley Rd, Prestbury, Macclesfield SK10 4SP

Established 1502 Number of pupils 1,331 Head of cricket Stephen Moores Professional AJ Harris (Derbyshire

well for girls’ softball cricket fixtures as an additional playing venue to host six home games at any one time Club/county affiliation MCC Foundation North Wales Hub programme, Cheshire Cricket and collaboration with local cricket clubs, such as Chester Boughton Hall CC, Alvanley CC, Christleton CC and Barrow CC Best prospect Romano Franco has been captain of King’s 1st XI for the past two years. He has been a regular in Glamorgan 2nd XI in 2025 and played in the One Day Cup Cricketers of note Phil Salt

(Lancashire & England), Kate Coppack (Middlesex & Sunrisers) and Romano Franco (Glamorgan and Wales) Brief history Cricket has been a regular feature at King’s for several decades, since the school moved from Chester Cathedral to the current site in South Chester, onto a plot owned by the Duke of Westminster Cultural cricketers Martin Lewis (TV economist), Ronald Pickup and Nicholas Grace (both actors), Jonathan Samuels (journalist) Finest moment on the field Introducing girls’ cricket as the main summer sport for girls (in 2023) Recent progress They have developed the school’s first ever girls’ hardball cricket team (Under 13) in 2025, entering the Cheshire Cup (reaching quarter-final) and have excellent weekly attendances at girls only hardball cricket sessions Future plans Continue to develop the tour programme, looking to the next major overseas tour in 2027 and developing U12/U13 cricket tour opportunities Tours Sri Lanka (2025)

fixtures, and most year groups have 11 or 12 fixtures. The notable fixtures include Bolton School, Lancaster, Manchester Grammar School and MCC Facilities The newly formed Wilson Field is the 1st XI cricket pitch (12 wickets), there are three grass squares at the school’s Derby Fields and two on the Brocklehurst Field. There is a three-lane indoor dedicated cricket centre as well as two indoor lanes in the sports hall. There is a five-lane all weather outdoor cricket net area and the school use three cages for netting on the grass in the summer Club/county affiliation The school runs a primary school outreach programme in November and December when local primary school children come into King’s for a cricket session with the coaches.

Other local secondary schools have used the King’s pitches for some of their fixtures and they host the primary schools girls tournament Best prospect Joe Moores, Stephen Moores who was selected for Head of cricket England U19s as a 15-year-

old last season. And is a hard hitting wicketkeeper/batter Cricketers of note Peter Moores (Sussex), Alex Thomson (Derbyshire) Brief history The school have one of the oldest school cricket team photographs dated 1865. The recent move to a new site has enabled girls’ cricket to thrive at the school with an increased number of pitches and facilities What sets the school apart? The school have a large number pupils in the county system and playing district cricket. They have 15 players playing full county age group cricket or better Finest moment on the field The King’s U13 XI won the national Cup final against Dulwich College, at Oakham School in 2022 by a single run Recent progress An enhanced partnership with Cheshire with support from coaches. The girls have reached their second county final in two years Future plans The school are planning a new cricket pavilion which will add a lot to the Wilson Cricket Field Tours UAE (2024)

hard ball for U12 and U13 including Saturday fixtures and festivals Fixtures There are 150 fixtures per year plus festivals and tours.

There is an exciting growth of the fixture list for girls’ cricket and B teams. The most notable fixtures are 1st XI vs MCC, Forty Club and Free Foresters Facilities There are six artificial outdoor net lanes, a wheel-on batting cage for open wicket practice out in the middle on the square, four indoor nets, three grass cricket squares, an artificial cricket pitch and a hockey astroturf, which is working

& Nottinghamshire) Teams There are 19 teams – 10 senior boys teams and five in juniors and four girls teams in the seniors Girls’ cricket There are block Saturday fixtures for Girls U12, U13, U14 and U15 and in the Junior school Fixtures The 1st XI have 16

thecricketer.com | 105

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

THE KING’S SCHOOL, WORCESTER // THE MANCHESTER GRAMMAR SCHOOL

THE KING’S SCHOOL, WORCESTER 5 College Green, Worcester WR1 2LL Established 1541 Number of pupils 846 Director of cricket Simon Greenall Professional Anthony Gillgrass (Derbyshire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17A, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U15A, U14A, U13AB, U12AB Girls’ cricket There is a girls’ cricket programme Fixtures The school played 139 fixtures, which could rise to 145 depending on National Cup seasons. The boys fixtures include Cheltenham College, Malvern College, MCC, KES Birmingham, Solihull and two touring teams from Australia each year. The girls play Marlborough College, Repton School, Rugby School, Shrewsbury and MCC Facilities They have nine indoor nets across two sports halls and at the fields have eight astro turf nets and six grass nets available for practice.

There are two grass squares and two other astroturf wickets and they can also use the grass square at King’s Hawford prep school. In the last two years, the school purchased cricket facilities called the Cinderella ground and the Battenhall fields so there is an ability to host seven matches at home at the same time Club/county affiliation Throughout July and August the Worcester Super league use the Cinderella ground to play matches. This is a BAME cricket league organised by local businesses in the Worcester area. The Old Vigornians Cricket club, Worcester Nomads and Rushwick also use the Cinderella ground and King’s

Hawford to play their league matches Best prospects Seth Essenhigh represented the England U19, Phoebe Brett (16), spinner for Warwickshire and England U19s, Bryony Gillgrass (16), Worcestershire and Warwickshire and Henry Hawes (16) Worcestershire 2nd XI Cricketers of note Josh Tongue (Nottinghamshire and England), Sophie Le Marchand (England), Brian Brain (Worcestershire and Gloucestershire) Brief history Cricket has a long tradition of success at King’s Worcester. Many boys, past and present, have represented Worcestershire at all age groups. The

Girls 1st XI was formed in 2023 Cultural cricketers Chris Tarrant (broadcaster) Finest moment on the field George Tomlinson breaking the school record with 176 against Queen Ethelburga in the U17 National plate semi-final.

The Girls 1st XI playing their inaugural match against MCC this year Recent progress Investment in the cricket programme, such as the purchase of the Cinderella Ground and the Battenhall fields Future plans Introduce a primary school Summer Cricket festival as part of the outreach programme with the aim of getting more juniors playing cricket

U11ABCD, U10ABCD, U9ABCD, U8ABCD, plus development teams Fixtures Each A team plays around 30 fixtures a year – most notable fixtures Old Hall Ln, Manchester are against Shrewsbury, M13 0XT Mike Watkinson Sedbergh, Trent College Director of sport and an annual fixture Established 1515 against MCC Number of pupils 1,394 Facilities A state-of-the-art, Director of sport Mike Watkinson purpose-built sports hall was (Lancashire, England) opened in 2015 by former pupil Mike Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U16, Atherton. The hall has four nets.

U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12AB,

There are three grass spaces (1st XI, intermediate and Junior), six grass practice pictures and four outdoor artificial practice nets, two astro pitches. Extensive covering for all outdoor pitches Club/county affiliation The school has strong links with Lancashire and Cheshire, with several pupils part of the academy schemes at both counties Cricketers of note Mike Atherton (Lancashire, England), John Crawley (Lancashire, Hampshire, England), David Green (Lancashire, Gloucestershire), Mark Crawley (Lancashire, Nottinghamshire), Gary Yates, Mark Chilton, George Bell (all Lancashire), Scott Richardson (Yorkshire and Leicestershire), Corey Flintoff (Kent) Brief history Academic staff and specialist coaches have helped develop the skills of sportsmen since the school moved out from the cramped city centre to a new site in Fallowfield,

surrounded by pitches, during the 1930s. The school is immensely proud of its cricketing heritage and the pedigree of players they have produced Cultural cricketers Herbert Toft (rugby union), Robert Crawshaw (Olympic water polo), Douglas Lowe (Olympic athlete) What sets the school apart?

Manchester Grammar does have an excellent record of producing cricketers who go on to play county and international cricket, and there is a great history and tradition of cricket at the school. The school does not offer any scholarships for sport, they don’t recruit or chase youngsters.

Diversity of sport and opportunities for all remain are the focus of the school’s sporting programme Finest moment on the field The school were U15 national champions in 2015 and national finalists at U13 and U18 level in 2023 Recent progress The increased participation along with achievements of teams and individuals Future plans A new £10m cricket pavilion and sixth form centre

THE MANCHESTER GRAMMAR SCHOOL

106 | thecricketer.com

THE PERSE SCHOOL // TONBRIDGE SCHOOL

THE PERSE SCHOOL Hills Road, Cambridge CB2 8QF Established 1615 Number of pupils 1450 Head of cricket Sean Park Professional Jason Coleman Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U16A, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABC. Girls: 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC, U13 Indoor, U15 Indoor Girls’ cricket The Girls’ 1st XI play 14 fixtures with notable fixtures against the MCC, The Ley’s, Berkhamsted

and Forest School. The Girls 1st XI took part in their first festival this year at Pocklington School with Blundells and Hymers Fixtures There are around 200 fixtures, the boy’s 1st XI play 18 fixtures each season, including an end of season festival with Durham School, Newcastle Boys School or MTS Crosby. The U15’s attend the annual MCS, Oxford 100 ball festival.

The school also run an annual U12 and U13 cricket festival.

Facilities The school has six artificial nets, a roll-on cage, 11 indoor nets

across two sports halls and three grounds with a total of seven pitches.

All three of the grounds are equipped with sightscreens and covers. Both sports halls are equipped with two bowling machines Club/county affiliation Foxton Granta CC, Saffron Walden CC, Sawston CC and Thriplow CC. And, over the past two years they have hosted the City College, Norwich Best prospect Jonny Rumsby – wicketkeeper-batter who has played for Essex since he was 12. Last year as a year 10, he scored over 500 runs for

TONBRIDGE SCHOOL High St, Tonbridge TN9 1JP Established 1553 Number of pupils 800 Master in charge Rob Stephen Professional Ian Baldock (Kent 2nd XI) and Richie Oliver (Worcestershire) Teams Boys: U14A-E, U15A-E, U16A-C, and five senior teams. Girls: N/A Fixtures There are matches for most teams every weekend and midweek fixtures for a range of teams.

Bedford two-day game; Cowdrey Cup involving Radley, Eton, Charterhouse, Wellington and Harrow; annual cricket festival which features touring sides often from Australia, New Zealand and South Africa Facilities There are seven grass squares, three astroturf wickets, 10 grass nets, 10 artificial nets, and five indoor nets Club/county affiliation The school host a variety of local school matches and run tournaments for a variety of schools and clubs Best prospect Surrey’s Ollie Sykes is

the school’s most recent gradate into professional cricket Cricketers of note Colin and Graham Cowdrey, Roger Prideaux, Richard Ellison, Ed Smith, Zak Crawley and Marcus O’Riordan (all Kent), Toby Pettman

(Nottinghamshire) and Ollie Sykes (Surrey) 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

the school Cricketers of note Michael Pepper (Essex), Chris Pepper (Essex CC), Zaman Akhter (Gloucestershire), Nikhil Gorantla (Surrey), Bella Howarth (The Blaze), May Busher (Cambridgeshire) Brief history The earliest recorded cricket match at The Perse is in 1856.

The MCC match was introduced in the 60’s and in 1983 the school held its first overseas tour to Jamaica. In 2013, The Perse school was one of the first schools in the country to introduce girls’ cricket throughout all year groups Cultural cricketers Ronald G.W. Norrish (Nobel Prize winner 1967), Mark Saggers (presenter) Finest moment on the field In 2006, the 1st XI won a record 14 games in a row. One of the finest victories that year was chasing down 220 set by Bedford school in 30 overs with Ed Pearson scoring 100 from 73 balls Recent progress This year, the school took over 50 pupils to Sri Lanka on a cricket tour Tours Sri Lanka (2028)

many fine cricketers, including a number of recent internationals. The season is shaped by the Cowdrey Cup blocks which run throughout the summer, the Bedford two-day match, and a cricket festival against international teams to bring the curtain down on the school year.

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 Cultural cricketers Tim Rice-Oxley, Dominic Scott, Richard Hughes, Tom Chaplin (all musicians – Keane), Andy Zaltzman (Test Match Special statistician) 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 – a fine demonstration of the strength of cricket at the school Finest moment on the field The school has enjoyed recent successes in the Cowdrey Cup and Junior County and National Cups Tours U15 pre-season tours to Abu Dhabi and Dubai thecricketer.com | 107

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

TRENT COLLEGE

TRENT COLLEGE Derby Road, Long Eaton, Nottingham NG10 4AD Established 1871 Number of pupils 800 Head of cricket Scott Boswell (Northamptonshire, Leicestershire) Professionals Connor Marshall (Derbyshire) and Paul Johnson (Nottinghamshire) Teams The school runs 28 teams Girls’ cricket Girls play cricket from the junior school all the way through to year 13. There are girlsonly midweek fixtures then mixed on a Saturday with Josh Glover as a specific head of cricket Fixtures There are over 250 fixtures throughout the season with the most notable fixtures when they face Repton and touring sides

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Facilities The school have six squares and a hockey pitch which they use for matches and also use West Park adjacent to the school for senior fixtures. For training, there are 12 grass nets and two astro nets at Long Eaton Cricket Club Club/county affiliation Trent College host a primary school’s soft ball competition which involved 16 local schools. Nottinghamshire and The Blaze pathway use the facility for practice and matches Best prospect Byron Hatton-Lowe, who has played for England U19s and

Notts 2nd XI Cricketers of note Sarah Glenn (England), Fateh Landa and Freddie McCann (both Nottinghamshire), Mitch Wagstaff (Derbyshire) Brief history Trent boasts 22 teams across the age groups and live by the ‘3 Ps’ philosophy: participation, progression and performance. In the past, Derbyshire held several John Player League matches at the college and it remains a popular venue for Derbyshire and Notts 2nd XIs Cultural cricketers Ben Radcliffe (footballer)

in the National Under-17s to eventual winners Gosfield.

Overall the school enjoyed Trent College fell just short the dry English summer, of the domestic glory that where there was more long-serving head of cricket certainty about fixtures Scott Boswell was hoping for, (Trent play on Tuesdays, but it was still a successful, Thursdays and Saturdays). jam-packed season.

The college’s record And there was silverware of pointing potential brought home from Abu first-class cricketers Dhabi in the spring, with Scott Boswell Head of cricket towards Nottinghamshire Trent winning the Arch is an enviable one, and Trophy for the first time, Boswell, the former Northamptonshire and against schools from all over the world.

Leicestershire seamer, tries to take a holistic Trent lost in the Under-15 National Finals to approach when fixtures start to clash.

Merchant Taylors’ School, Northwood, with “We let our best kids play Premier League the highlight possibly the win over a strong cricket on Saturdays if they want to,” he says.

Manchester Grammar side in the last 16.

“Saturdays are friendlies for us, with our In the National Under-18s, there was no competitive games in midweek. disgrace in missing out to eventual champions “But we found that Freddie McCann and Rugby School in the quarter-finals, which is the furthest Trent have reached in that competition. Byron Hatton-Lowe still wanted to come back and play with us anyway, to play with their And there was an agonising last-ball defeat

What sets the school apart? The cricket programme over the winter and summer caters not only for the performance players but also the participation through club links, scoring, coaching and umpiring courses. There is also an indoor cricket competition run by sixth formers Finest moment on the field Playing in two Nationals finals and winning the Arch trophy in Dubai this year with the U15s Recent progress Established scoring and umpiring courses, set up tours for the U12s to the York Super 8s annually, a cricket festival for the U15’s yearly with 3 other schools for boys and girls and organised a strength and conditioning programme Tours Dubai (2027), Spain (2026), York (2025)

mates, on Saturdays. So we leave the decision up to them and their parents, because to play adult cricket can be to their benefit.

“Freddie even missed a national game for us to play for Notts 2s against Yorkshire 2s at Headingley [in April 2023]. But when you consider he caught Jonny Bairstow and scored 70, it pushed his career a fair way.”

Boswell now singles out Max Hunt, who played in the ECB Super Fours this year, as a lefthander to watch.

Boswell says that in his 14 years in the role he has “gone quite far to make sure we play as many state schools as possible” in their fixture list through the college.

He added: “We host a state primary school initiative every year where several schools come to us and play a festival. Our sixth form cricketers get involved with coaching. This year we had 16 teams.

“In Derbyshire the state-school scene is quite proactive, and we do all we can to pick our most appropriate sides.”

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

UPPINGHAM SCHOOL

High Street West, Uppingham, Oakham LE15 9QE Established 1584 Number of pupils 850 Director of cricket Rob Taylor (Leicestershire & Scotland) Professional Trevor Ward (Kent &

MEET THE DIRECTOR OF CRICKET

Leicestershire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, 5th XI, U15 ABC, U14 ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15, U14 Girls’ cricket There are four competitive girls’ summer teams Fixtures There are 91 fixtures across the entire season, with a two-day game against Shrewsbury School being one of the highlights Facilities Five indoor lanes, 16 grass practice pitches, an eight-lane artificial net facility, five bowling machines, and seven cricket squares.

UPPINGHAM SCHOOL

The Upper is the school’s standalone 1st XI ground Club/county affiliation The school have good links with Leicestershire CCC’s pathway and they use the school’s indoor and outdoor facilities for matches and training.

Uppingham Community College play fixtures in game sessions. The school also work closely with state schools in Leicester to run outreach days Best prospect Will Macdonald Leicestershire Boys Pathway - top order batter and boys 1st XI captain.

Eloise Gretton - Leicestershire Girls Pathway - top order batter and opening bowler Cricketers of note Jonathan Agnew, James Whitaker (both England and Leicestershire), Arush Buchake (Northamptonshire) Brief history Cricket has been a bedrock of sport at Uppingham

says Taylor.

“The lads enjoy having male role models, so giving the girls There’s certainly no the same opportunity has shortage of first-class and helped them massively. international experience “We’ve seen more girls when it comes to providing from Uppingham involved Uppingham School pupils in county pathways, who with great mentors. have had three years on our Alongside director of cricket programme, so it’s great to Rob Taylor (Leicestershire see their development being and Scotland), and Rob Taylor Director of cricket recognised at a higher level. cricket professional “Having girls playing on that Trevor Ward (Kent and kind of stage shows the growth and strength Leicestershire), members of the school’s of our programme.” coaching staff have included Neil Johnson Uppingham have a regular intake of cricket (Hampshire, Leicestershire and Zimbabwe) scholars each year into Years 9 and 12 from and Ian Butcher (Gloucestershire and counties including Northamptonshire, as well Leicestershire) recently. as Taylor’s former county.

But Taylor’s long-term vision of strengthening The alignment of the women’s professional an emerging girls’ programme has also produced domestic structure with that of men’s counties a fresh generation of role models including has also helped his young charges to envision Beth Harmer (The Blaze) and Gemma Marriott the same kind of professional aspirations as (Northamptonshire) in the last two years. their male classmates more easily.

“For the girls, that’s been a big one,”

ever since the school acquired a 1st XI ground, The Upper, in 1828.

Uppingham Rovers, the school’s old boys cricket club, was established in 1863, making it one of the oldest wandering clubs in the world Cultural cricketers Stephen Fry (actor, comedian and former MCC president) What sets the school apart? The origin of the term ‘Hat Trick’ has connections to Uppingham as H Stephenson, the cricket professional from 1872 to 1897, took three wickets in three deliveries for the AllEngland XI in 1858 Finest moment on the field In 2024, the Boys U17s made the National Plate Final which was hosted at Uppingham. Having lost in the 2nd round of the cup, the team went on a run of four wins Recent progress The development of girls’ cricket has been really positive in the last 12 months. The girls have entered national and county competitions for the first time, begun playing on The Upper and worn coloured clothing Future plans Continue to work closely with counties and local clubs to attract and support the best young players in the area and further afield Tours Dubai, Sri Lanka (2024)

“We’ve put a lot of time into building that relationship with Leicestershire, which includes hosting fixtures as well as being aligned on player development,” says Taylor.

“Now, I can tell all players in our programme that they’ll have the chance to sign a county contract like Arush Buchake did in 2024, when he signed for Northamptonshire.”

There’s no shortage of opportunities for Uppingham cricketers to showcase their talents either, with 14 teams set for an increased fixture list of more than 100 in 2026.

It comes after a boys’ 1st XI in transition (they lost six players after 2024) recorded an impressive seven wins out of 12 this summer, something Taylor plans to build on.

“We want to be getting to the latter stages of tournaments, which is something we had a taste of with the U17 boys making the National Plate final in 2024,” he adds.

“For girls, we are making cricket a genuine option for those who have aspirations to play at a higher level and providing an opportunity for those who are newer to the game.”

www.uppingham.co.uk • Director of Admissions: Flynn Le Brocq – admissions@uppingham.co.uk 110 | thecricketer.com

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

WELLINGTON COLLEGE

WELLINGTON COLLEGE Duke’s Ride, Crowthorne, Berkshire, RG45 7PU Established 1859 Number of pupils 1,172 Head of cricket Thea Brookes Professionals Howard Grice, Olly Tapp, Ed Young Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, Development XI, U15ABC, U14ABC. Girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14AB Girls’ cricket They entered three competitions this year, U15s softball for beginners, U15s 100 Ball National Comp and finished third in the U18s 100 Ball national competition. Girls’ fixtures have increased Fixtures Over 100, including matches against MCC (boys and girls), the BOWS festival with Brighton, Oakham and Sedbergh, a two-day fixture against Malvern College, and the Cowdrey Cup with Eton, Harrow, Tonbridge, Radley, and Charterhouse

MEET THE HEAD OF CRICKET

Facilities Nine grounds, 14 grass nets, 14 astroturf nets, and a four-lane indoor cricket centre.

They stream all games played on the 1XI pitch through Frogbox so any age group that plays here will be streamed Club/county affiliation Strong links with Middlesex, Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire. South Asian Cricket Academy and Cricket for Character Education use the school’s facilities Best prospects Zaara Norat - Surrey pathway - batter and offspinner.

Georgia Toosey - Southern Vipers EPP and Hampshire pathways seam bowler and excellent ball striker. Ralf Beer - Berkshire pathway – wicketkeeper/batter. Freddie Corbett - Berkshire pathway –

wicketkeeper/batter Cricketers of note Tom Hodgson (Essex), Tom Curran, Sam Curran (both England and Surrey), Ben Curran (Zimbabwe), Ajeet Singh Dale (Hampshire and Gloucestershire), Lissy MacLeod (Essex) Brief history Cricket has always been the main summer boys’ sport at Wellington, although a lack of appropriate pitches held the college back until the early 1900s.

It is now a major sport for girls and the programme took another step forward with the opening of an indoor facility Cultural cricketers Rory Bremner (impressionist), Christopher Lee (actor), Will Young (singer) What sets the school apart? Five

because they’re good at it.

They might be good hockey players or athletes.

Wellington College is where “But some of our under-14s the three Curran brothers are really, really into the game. took such an important step They’re watching it avidly towards the top. and they have a real tactical Now Wellington’s Thea awareness that comes from Brookes, a former allrounder doing so, and The Hundred for Central Sparks, Southern has definitely been part Vipers, Warwickshire and of that.

Surrey, is helping establish the Thea Brookes Head of cricket “Historically, in girls’ cricket, Berkshire school as a force one or two players tend to in the girls’ game. Fifty years dominate. We are seeing some really strong after females were first admitted to the sixth all‑round sides now through the XI.” form, it’s decent timing.

Wellington is ideally positioned in a powerful “I like to go around all our girls and ask who National County, with Berkshire closely aligned their favourite cricketer is,” says Brookes. to Hampshire, and Middlesex and Surrey nearby.

“Secretly I’m hoping they say a woman, and “The players sort themselves out to a degree. quite often now they are saying, ‘Nat SciverMany of them are already part of a county Brunt or Lauren Bell’. pathway, and as long as the comms are good “There’s been a bit of a step-change in then it’s very promising for them.” attitude. A lot of our under-16s play the game

pupils moved into professional cricket between 2014 and 2019, highlighting Wellington’s talent pathway Finest moment on the field Winning the 2014, 2023, 2025 Cowdrey Cup, and reaching the National T20s finals day in 2015.

Old Wellingtonians CC won The Cricketer Cup in 2017 and 1995. Girls U15As achieved third in the country in their 100 Ball National Cup Recent progress The school is proud of the number of pupils, both boys and girls they have playing cricket Future plans Regular festivals held for Prep Schools, master in charge to go into schools and do further outreach work and hybrid pitches Tours South Africa (2026)

Brookes is trying to set up a girls’ cricket festival for schools in the region, which she would like to name after a current England women’s great.

Director of sport, Dan Pratt, added: “We are so lucky to have some great role models, including Thea.

“We have Alice Macleod playing for Essex and now Cesca Sweet for Leicestershire.

“We can’t underestimate things like the co-ed honours board, with centuries for the girls’ 1st XI listed alongside the boys’ 1st XI. It helps drive a ‘club’ feel.”

Pratt has witnessed an attitude shift in the 17 years he has been working at the college.

“We used to hear that the game was too long, or that parents wanted to get their kids home by 6.30pm, but now everyone seems open to T20 or 100-ball; if it’s in coloured kit with a white ball, so be it.

“We’re trying to engender a lifelong love of the game.”

www.wellingtoncollege.org.uk • 01344 444 013 • admissions@wellingtoncollege.org.uk 112 | thecricketer.com

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TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

WHITGIFT SCHOOL // WINCHESTER COLLEGE

WHITGIFT SCHOOL

traditionally been played at the Oval for over 50 years Cricketers of note Raman Subba Row (England), Jason Roy, Rory Burns, Dom Sibley, Jamie Smith (all England and Surrey), Laurie Evans (Surrey, Warwickshire and Sussex), Michael Burgess (Warwickshire,

Sussex and Leicestershire), Ryan Patel (Surrey), Nick Welch (Leicestershire, Zimbabwe) Brief history Cricket has been played at Whitgift for over 160 years, with the first inter-school match against Epsom College in 1871. It wasn’t until the early 2000s that the

school began to compete nationally but has since enjoyed regular success. Over the past 20 years, 12 pupils have signed professional contracts Cultural cricketers JB Gill (pop star), Elliott Daly (British & Irish Lion and England rugby union), Danny Cipriani (England rugby union), Pip Burley (The Darling Buds of May writer), General Sir Peter Wall (former head of British Armed Forces) What sets the school apart? The school have hosted 22 professional matches on North Field from 20002011 and in the past few years, three Old Whitgiftians have opened the batting for England Finest moment on the field Seeing the hundreds of smiling faces every Saturday morning as teams of all levels take to the field Recent progress The school have worked hard to increase the number of fixtures at all levels and cricketing opportunities are available to pupils Future plans A purpose-built, cricket-specific centre is currently in the works Tours Spain (2026), Barbados (2027)

Girls: 1st XI Girls’ cricket With the number of girls looking to increase in the sixth form, they are looking for more young female cricketers to come to Winchester Fixtures There are approximately 120 games across the school with a historic fixture against Eton, played since 1826, continuing to draw the eye of parents and players, while the 1st XI take great pride in their game with

MCC Facilities Three grass squares (each boasting hybrid wickets), four artificial pitches, two artificial net facilities, four indoor nets (which will become eight upon completion of the new sports centre) Club/county affiliation They host games with local state schools, the Hampshire State Jets and Essex Boys and Girls’ Club. The Arundel Castle Cricket Foundation hosted the match against Eton, aiming to increase awareness of the work that the Foundation does in their local community Best prospect Sebastian Morgan, this year’s Lord’s XI captain, signed his first contract with Middlesex this year and featured for England U19s this summer Cricketers of note Douglas Jardine (England and Surrey), Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi (India) Brief history Winchester has played the game for almost 200 years and helped produce 10 former Test

cricketers. There are two picturesque grounds, including Meads, which sits in the old part of the school and provides a wonderful setting for junior cricketers Cultural cricketers Rishi Sunak (former prime minister) What sets the school apart? The focus of the cricket programme is helping pupils towards their individual goals and nurturing a love of the game which will hopefully last a lifetime.

Winchester’s links with Hampshire also offer an excellent stepping stone for pupils to excel Finest moment on the field Chasing 250 to win in U17 National Cricket Paper quarter-final in recent times Recent progress More individual coaching across the winter and summer, allowing pupils to sustain their progress. This is thanks to a growing number of coaches, full and part time, who work at the college Future plans Sustained investment in facilities and resources is being planned for the years to come, that should see the school be able to provide even better opportunities to its boys and girls playing cricket here Tours Sri Lanka (2025)

Haling Park Road, South Croydon, Surrey CR2 6YT Established 1596 Number of pupils 1,550 Head of cricket David Ward (Surrey) Professionals Neil Kendrick (Surrey, Glamorgan), Simon Jackson (Jamaica – head of cricket academy) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U16, U15ABC, U14ABCDE, U13ABCDE, U12ABCDE, U11ABC. Fixtures There are between 250 and 260 fixtures every year Facilities Four cricket squares on site (with access to two more at the Old Boys’ sports ground), 10 grass nets, nine astroturf nets, and a purpose-built indoor centre with six lanes, full run-ups and a variety of bowling machines Club/county affiliation The school’s grounds serve as the venue for the Surrey Schools’ U14 and U12 Finals, held towards the end of the summer term. Most recently, they hosted the Hobbs Trophy, an U15 state school match which has

WINCHESTER COLLEGE College St, Winchester, Hampshire SO23 9NA Established 1382 Number of pupils 720 Master in charge James Burridge Professional Paul Gover (Hampshire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U16AB, U15ABC, U14ABCD.

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WORKSOP COLLEGE // WORTH SCHOOL

WORKSOP COLLEGE Cuthbert’s Avenue, Worksop, Nottinghamshire S80 3AP Established 1890 Number of pupils 500 Head of cricket Adam Tilcock (Nottinghamshire) Professional Karanjit Bansal (Notts 2nd XI, Lincolnshire) Team Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15, U14, U13, U12AB. Girls: U15, U14, U13AB, U12ABC Girls’ cricket There are eight girls’ teams with six softball cricket and two hardball Fixtures They play more than 130 cricket fixtures. The 1st XI alone played 26 matches last season, facing a diverse range of opponents both domestically and internationally.

The fixture list featured Shrewsbury School, Worcestershire CCC Academy, Nottinghamshire CCC Academy, MCC, and Derbyshire CCC U18s Facilities Four hardball pitches, four softball pitches, 12 outdoor grass nets, four indoor nets, and a specialist strength and conditioning suite Club/county affiliation Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire, supporting training and age-group and 2nd XI fixtures, and Root Academy. The school is also the Blaze North Region EPP hub for their winter training.

Best prospects Will Alsopp – talented left-handed wicketkeeperbatter and slow arm orthodox bowler in the Nottinghamshire CCC system.

Alexa Hill – Yorkshire CCC rising star Cricketers of note Joe Root (England and

Yorkshire), Samit Patel (England and Nottinghamshire), Phil Sharpe (England and Yorkshire), Ken Farnes (England and Essex), Richard Kettleborough (Yorkshire and Middlesex), Brett Hutton and Tom Giles (Notts CCC), Billy Root (Glamorgan CCC), Eliot Callis (Yorkshire CCC), Liam Patterson-White (England Lions and Notts CCC) Brief history Worksop is a small school but its cricketing prowess is up there with the big boys. Unity and team spirit are cornerstones of the college’s philosophy and teams always aim to take the positive option during fixtures, with the opportunity to learn from the success or failure this might bring Cultural cricketers Craig Woodhouse (journalist) What sets the school apart?

Cricket has been a central part of life at Worksop College since its foundation in 1895. The college boasts a proud tradition of producing talented players, including several who have gone on to represent county and international sides.

Finest moment on the field A girls’ team were entered into two U15 Cup competitions and in 2024, they played the very first hardball match, marking an important milestone Recent progress Over the past year, they’ve enhanced the cricket programme by upskilling staff through ECB coaching courses, expanding year-round opportunities for both boys and girls Future plans The cricket programme is aiming to introduce a junior tour in 2026 Tours The season began with a tour of Sri Lanka, competing against strong sides, including Foundation of Goodness team

WORTH SCHOOL

standard, from ECB Premier League clubs to county pathways, 2nd XIs and Paddockhurst Road, women’s regional sides Turners Hill, Crawley, What sets the school West Sussex RH10 4SD apart? Worth have regularly competed at a Established 1933 Raj Chaudhuri decent level and despite Number of pupils 650 Head of cricket not being a very big school Head of cricket compete with most schools Raj Chaudhuri (Tripura) in the area. In 2025 the U18s and Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U15s were in cup finals against U14AB, U13AB. Girls: 1st XI, U15, Ardingly and Lancing. Players are U14, U13 not rushed but allowed to develop Girls’ cricket Worth School at their own time and the approach runs four girls’ teams with more to cricket training is definitely very competent players encouraged to subcontinent skill-based and not train and play with the boys power-based Fixtures Around 25 per season for the Finest moment on the field Worth 1st XI, with notable matches against School won the International School MCC, Sussex Martlets and touring Bangalore (TISB) tournament sides. There are 10 for age group A in India teams and five to six for B teams Recent progress The biggest Facilities Four grounds, five grass progress has been cricketers nets, an indoor centre with five lanes regularly playing good quality club and three astroturfs cricket both during term time and Club/county affiliation First Class also during the summer which Cricket Academy, one of the largest has enhanced their learning and cricket academies in Sussex, use development. This has been a the facilities which indirectly helps massive culture change seen over a lot of young cricketers from state the years for the better players schools who attend the academy.

Future plans In planning stages for The main Oval is used by local a new cricket facility with a set of cricket clubs after end of term artificial nets and a tour to India Best prospect George McLoughlin opens the bowling for Reigate Priory in their 1st XI in the Surrey Premier League and was included in the Surrey academy this season Cricketers of note James Heywood (Cambridge MCCU), Nikki Chaudhuri (Surrey and Worcestershire, now a presenter and commentator), Claudie Cooper (South East Stars), Alice Grant (South East Stars and Kent) Brief history Cricket is an integral part of life at Worth School. Many pupils go on to play cricket to a high thecricketer.com | 115

TOP 100 SENIOR SCHOOLS

WREKIN COLLEGE

WREKIN COLLEGE Sutherland Road, Wellington, Telford, Shropshire TF1 3BH Established 1880 Number of pupils 558 Director of sport James Shaw Director of cricket Richard Ferley Professional Henry Morris Team - Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB. Girls: 1st XI, U15, U14, U13AB, U12AB Girls’ cricket Girls’ cricket has grown at Wrekin as they offer a range of fixtures and the National Cups for the U18s, U15s and U14s Fixtures There are 145 scheduled fixtures, including Shrewsbury School, Denstone College, The King’s School Chester, MCC and two touring sides from Australia and South Africa Facilities Four cricket pitches, six astroturf nets, four indoor cricket nets with mats, and three mobile net cages Club/county affiliation Wellington CC, Shifnal CC, Shrewsbury CC, Bridgnorth CC, Wolverhampton CC, Worfield CC and Shropshire County

Cricket Board are located on the school site Best prospect William Jones has been an integral member of the 1st XI since year nine and has trained with the Worcester and Shropshire Academies Cricketers of note Dillon Pennington (Nottinghamshire), Richard Oliver (Worcestershire),

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Charlie Home (Shropshire and Loughborough MCCU), Matt Lamb and Luke Thornton (both Shropshire CCC). JP Duminy, Andrew Puttick, Rory Kleinveldt (South Africa – exchange pupils) Brief history Wrekin College has constantly produced National County players on a playing surface fit for the next step. With

the backdrop of the Wrekin and Shropshire hills behind, the ground has now become the ‘Home of Shropshire Cricket’ What sets the school apart? They have a committed group of staff and coaches that help develop a love of the game. The fixture list has vastly altered over the past five years but continue to punch above their weight at senior and junior levels Finest moment on the field Last season beating Rugby in the National quarter-final in the Midlands round of the HMC T20 competition Recent progress They have worked to further develop the profile of girls cricket in the school, an increase of around 80 per cent in years 7-10 have played cricket for the school this year. Linked with NEXX cricket to source more comfortable and suitable batting equipment, and are exploring opportunities with Maiden Cricket to get the girls more involved in the design of their playing kit Future plans The new surface in the sports hall has led to better training for all involved and planning to run even more in this academic year Tours Dubai 2026

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TOP 25 STATE SCHOOLS

David Sharman hopes we might be heading for a new golden era of state school cricket

It feels like we might be witnessing something of a renaissance for cricket in state schools.

Highlighted in this section of the guide are some excellent, innovative programmes run by dedicated teachers who are constantly finding new ways to ensure our wonderful sport thrives in the state sector.

That dedication is also paying dividends for the wider game too, with a number of those programmes producing county cricketers who have made their professional debuts in recent years.

The launch of the Knight-Stokes Cup, which will give state schools the chance to play in a dream final at Lord’s, now provides a further boon for the sector and will hopefully drive this renaissance forward. MCC deserve huge credit for getting it off the ground and it’s a tournament we at The Cricketer can’t wait to cover once it begins.

Unlike many state-educated children, I was fortunate enough to represent my school on the cricket field, if only during two summers.

At Ridgeway Primary School, in Market Harborough, our caretaker and coach, Graham Moss, worked tirelessly to set up a cricket team because he knew how much the sport meant to many in our Year 6 class.

We even had some success under his inspiring leadership, winning the South-East group of a Leicestershire schools six-a-side competition, played with a hard ball.

Likewise, our Year 10 team at the nearby Robert Smyth School came about largely thanks to having a PE teacher, Mike Scully, who had previously played Minor Counties cricket for Wiltshire and noticed the enthusiasm for the sport in our year group.

In both cases, as with most state schools these days, a lack of adequate facilities meant home games were played at our local club ground.

The passion of volunteers like Mr Moss, who sadly passed away in October, and Mr Scully are what came to mind for me when reading through some of the fantastic entries on the following pages.

Those who give their time and energy so that all children, whatever their background, can enjoy cricket at school deserve a huge “thank you” from all of us.

Let’s hope this renaissance leads to a new golden era.

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BRIGHTON ALDRIDGE COMMUNITY ACADEMY // CHISLEHURST & SIDCUP GRAMMAR SCHOOL

BRIGHTON ALDRIDGE COMMUNITY ACADEMY Lewes Road, Brighton BN1 9PW Established 2010 Number of pupils 802 Director of cricket Mark Robinson Professional Georgia Adams (Sussex), John Spencer (Sussex) Teams Mixed: 1st XI, 2nd XI,U15, U14, U13. Girls: U13 Fixtures Up to 16 senior fixtures per year including the National T20 Knockout, Sussex Martlets, MCC and ACE Facilities A three-lane hall with full run-ups, two BOLA machines and a BOLA Merlyn. 12 grass wickets, including one hybrid wicket Club/county affiliation Sussex CCC Best prospect Fifteen-year-old Oliver Mason is captain of the Year 10 team and is on Sussex EPP. He plays U16s and bats in the top 4 for the 1st XI Cricketers of note Keith Greenfield and Will Sheffield (both Sussex), Tara Norris (Sussex, Lancashire, USA, Delhi Capitals women), Liam O’Brien (England Disability) Brief history The Aldridge Cricket

CHISLEHURST & SIDCUP GRAMMAR SCHOOL Hurst Rd, Sidcup, Kent DA15 9AG Established 1931 Number of pupils 1450 Director of Cricket Richard Wallbridge Professional Matthew Stiddard (Bexley CC) Teams Boys: 1st XI, U15, U14AB, U13AB, U12AB. Girls: U15, U14, U13, U12 Fixtures 90, including MCC and Saturday friendlies for the boys. The school also competes in the Kent Cup and North Kent Cup Facilities Two grass squares (one with an artificial strip). Three outdoor artificial nets and two indoor nets.

One bowling machine Club/county affiliation Bexley CC, Sidcup CC, Dartfordians CC, Bexleyheath CC Best prospect Siena Brown is a Kent U15 allrounder and excellent fielder Cricketers of note Grahame Clinton (Kent, Surrey), Matthew Brimson (Leicestershire), Ollie Robinson (England Lions, Kent, Durham),

Charlotte Edwards in 2015 Academy offers tailored Finest moment on the programmes for pupils from field The U14 side winning Year 7 to sixth form. Teams the county cup and getting have travelled abroad to into the nationals the South Africa, Sri Lanka, following year. The 1st XI UAE and Kenya. More topped the South Group of than 200 pupils have been Mark Robinson the National T20 Knockout through the programme Director of cricket in 2024 and the Sir Rod Aldridge Recent progress Junior Cricket Cricket Centre was opened by

Pathway has grown massively, with more than 40 students between Years 7 and 11 in the cricket programme Future plans The Aldridge Cricket Academy will be the central hub of other state school cricket programmes being established across Sussex.

This will help provide even more opportunities for state school pupils to experience and develop at cricket Phoebe Franklin (Kent, South East Stars), Sydney Gorham (Kent, South East Stars) Brief history Cricket has always been the main summer sport at the school. The 2023 season was the best ever for the boys’ cricket with the 1st XI winning the group stage of the Kent League and finishing runners up in the Kent Cup. The boys won the North Kent Cup U12, U13, U14 and U15 level too. Girls’ cricket was at its strongest during the 1980s but the school is making great strides, with boys’ and girls’ district and county representation a regular occurrence Cultural cricketers Leslie Clark (actor) Finest moment on the field 1973 1st XI Kent Lemon Cup winners Recent progress The continued development of girls’ cricket Future plans A Flicx pitch to allow for more games Tours South Africa (2026) thecricketer.com | 119

TOP 25 STATE SCHOOLS

DR CHALLONER’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL // GEORGE ABBOT SCHOOL

DR CHALLONER’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL Chesham Rd, Amersham HP6 5HA Established 1624 Number of pupils 1370 Head of cricket Jonny Carpenter Teams Boys: 16 teams Fixtures 100 fixtures per year.

Notable fixtures include MCC, which is played annually, as well as Eton College and Berkhamsted School.

This year, Brighton Grammar School also visited from Melbourne Facilities A delightful tree-lined ground with a wooden pavilion serves as a charming home venue. Practice is facilitated in four indoor nets in the sports hall Best prospect Yash Kochhar is part of the Northamptonshire Academy.

He is a highly-rated pace bowler who also plays Premier League club cricket for Amersham Cricketers of note Dominic Goodman (Gloucestershire), Raphy Weatherall (Northamptonshire) Brief history The school has a programme for all those who are interested, including regular fixtures

GEORGE ABBOT SCHOOL Woodruff Ave, Guildford GU1 1XX Established 1957 Number of pupils 1932 Head of cricket Ben Isherwood

120 | thecricketer.com

for as many as four teams in junior year groups. Operating from a state school resource base this requires commitment, ingenuity and diligence from staff, including many who are not PE teachers. The 1st XI competes on a good local circuit. Since the sixth form went co-ed in 2016 a number of

girls have featured in senior teams What sets the school apart?

Dr Challoner’s have consistently delivered a programme on the scale and quality of a large independent school with state school grounds and financial resources Finest moment on the field

Reaching the quarter-finals and semi‑finals of various ESCA tournaments Recent progress Large numbers of boys participating and the high number of fixtures played, bearing in mind they have only a handful of staff Tours Sri Lanka (2026)

Teams Eight in total Fixtures Approximately 40 across all teams and age groups. This year’s most notable was the U18 T20 National Cup third round fixture against Cranleigh School, which was lost by 4 runs.

Facilities Astro wicket and one cut grass strip. Sports hall with six nets and indoor markings Club/county affiliation Surrey CCC, Guildford CC, Merrow CC, Horsley & Send CC Best prospects Ed Marsh

(Middlesex 2nd XI), Will Hamilton (Berkshire 2nd XI), Harry Bowen, Ned Brown (both Surrey U18) Cricketers of note Ashley Giles (England, Warwickshire) Brief history George Abbot has been competitive for a state school in recent history, competing in Surrey Schools’ Cricket Association competitions for boys and girls. 2024 was the first season to feature a 1st XI and a Girls’ 1st XI was added in 2025 Finest moment on the field This season featured a win over RGS Guildford in the T20 National Cup second round, the first-ever Girls’ 1st XI game against Gordon’s School and the U12 side winning the SSCA Plate Recent progress Continuing to develop and grow the Surrey Academic Cricket Scholarship programme with Surrey CCC, which has now grown from 34 to 40 scholars. There has also been training to improve non-cricket specialists’ knowledge so they can teach and coach cricket in PE lessons Future plans To improve the outdoor facilities and include a maintained square on the field

HUDDERSFIELD NEW COLLEGE // MYERSCOUGH COLLEGE

HUDDERSFIELD NEW COLLEGE New Hey Road, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire HD3 4GL Established 1839 Number of pupils 2,200 Head of cricket Jack Hendy Teams Boys: Two squads – Academy

MYERSCOUGH COLLEGE St Michael’s Road, Preston PR3 0RY Established 1894 Head of cricket Brett Pelser Teams Five mixed teams Fixtures More than 40 fixtures per year against some of the top schools in the North of England, as well as MCC, representative and touring sides Facilities The College is based in the indoor centre at Emirates Old Trafford, where students are able to access the facilities used by the professional sides at Lancashire Club/county affiliation Lancashire Cricket Foundation Best prospects Adam Anjum, Reece Gray and Luca Pemberton (all Lancashire), Liam Clorley (Cheshire), Hugo Croft (Durham U18), Tom Lane (Derbyshire) Cricketers of note Jack Morley (Lancashire, Derbyshire), Ben Gibbon (Worcestershire), Hannah Jones (Lancashire Thunder), Luke Hughes and Joel Harris (England Deaf), Jack Perry and Jordan Williams (England LD)

and Development Fixtures Ten fixtures for each programme. MCC in mid-June is the most notable game, along with others including Barnard Castle School and Manchester Grammar School Facilities Two indoor lanes built in 2013 and four further indoor lanes in the main sports block for general hire. The cricket programmes benefit

from accessing the college’s fitness suite for strength and conditioning sessions as well as the sports lab for more direct physiological testing where appropriate Best prospect Bradley Sylvester is with Yorkshire on the academy programme and has already been selected for their 2nd XI Cricketers of note Ben Cliff and Benjamin Birkhead (Yorkshire), Hollie Armitage (Yorkshire, Northern Superchargers) Brief history The cricket programme was established in 2005 and has expanded to incorporate a development programme that includes one-to-one coaching, qualification development and supplementary talks reflecting the holistic nature of player development

Cultural cricketers Max Morley (Love Island winner) What sets the school apart? As a further education sector college we are one of a very small number who delivers a programme of this nature that provides year-round training, high quality coaching and facilities with an extensive and highly competitive fixture programme Finest moment on the field Beating MCC in declaration games in both 2024 and 2025 Recent progress Players have had a series of lectures and presentations on mindset to compete at the top level, dealing with mental health and finally a new enrichment programme has allowed a greater number of students from across the college to access and experience cricket and the facilities at a recreational level Future plans The college is planning for an expansion of the fitness suite provision, with a £100,000 investment to expand the footprint and deliver sessions that have a greater sports science to it. This will benefit the programme based on biomechanics work and analysis Tours Sri Lanka (2026)

Brief history The centre based at Emirates Old Trafford was established 15 years ago. It attracts a variety of students, some with aspirations of professional cricket and most others wanting to play at a good standard while being able to achieve high grades What sets the school apart? Myerscough College is one of only a small number of educational establishments to offer such a standard of cricket at no cost to the student and be governmentfunded. Students are also able to study at a Test venue Finest moment on the field In 2022, the college reached the Schools National T20 final at Arundel for the first time in its history Recent progress The coaches have a vast amount of experience working with a number of different county

cricket teams with the cricket lead Brett Pelser having played first-class cricket in South Africa Future plans From this winter, staff and students will be able to access some of the latest technology in

cricket as they install a new balltracking system, providing real-time analysis to map the path the ball would have taken if it hadn’t hit the confines of the net Tours UAE (2026) thecricketer.com | 121

TOP 25 STATE SCHOOLS NORTHAMPTON SCHOOL FOR BOYS Billing Rd, Northampton NN1 5RT Established 1541 Number of pupils 1,700 Director of cricket Pete Bevan Teams Boys: U18, U15, U14, U13AB, U12ABC Fixtures Circa 40 including the annual MCC game Facilities The main cricket square takes pride of place in the centre of the school grounds. The iconic pavilion doubles up as a war memorial Best prospect Luke Phipps, part of the Northamptonshire Academy pathway, a quick bowler who also hits a long ball Cricketers of note David Willey (England, Northamptonshire and Yorkshire) Brief history The school has a long and proud history of cricket being played, dating back well over 100

NORTHAMPTON SCHOOL FOR BOYS // OLD SWINFORD HOSPITAL

years, and is proud of its standing as one of the most successful cricketing state schools in the region Cultural cricketers Sir Francis Crick (scientist), Matt Smith (Dr Who actor), Ollie Sleightholme, Courtney Lawes and James Grayson (England and Northampton Saints rugby union players), Fraser Hornby (Darmstadt footballer) Finest moment on the field Reaching the National Cup semi-final and Max Vesty scoring 100 not out to defeat MCC Recent progress There are now a number of external coaches who have offered their help in supporting the school, notably former Northamptonshire captain and head coach David Ripley Future plans The foundation of a new T20 league with the participation of local independent schools supportive of the idea. Installation of outdoor nets at the school for the first time

OLD SWINFORD HOSPITAL Worcestershire) Brief history Cricket has been Heath Ln, Oldswinford, Stourbridge DY8 1QX

Established 1667 Number of pupils 603 Director of cricket Daniel Bassett Teams 16 teams run from U12AB through to U18AB for boys and girls Fixtures Up to 150 including MCC and, in 2025, Newcastle Cricket Academy from New South Wales Facilities Six grass wickets, two outdoor grass nets, two outdoor astro nets and four indoor nets Club/county affiliation Pedmore CC, Old Swinford CC Best prospect James Plant in Year 10 is part of the Warwickshire EPP. A very talented quick bowler and top order batter Cricketers of note Dean Headley (England, Middlesex, Kent), Simon Green (Warwickshire), Adam Finch (Worcestershire), Jack Haynes (Worcestershire & Nottinghamshire), David Banks (Warwickshire, 122 | thecricketer.com

played at Old Swinford Hospital since the 17th century. It is the school’s summer sport and means that all students receive quality coaching and opportunities to play the best game in the world. The school places great emphasis on developing cricket further now that it is a co-educational school Cultural cricketers Ollie Lawrence (England rugby union player) Finest moment on the field Some excellent victories against the very strongest of school sides throughout the age groups Recent progress New staff upskilled to help coach on the cricket programme, which has helped more youngsters get to grips with the basics of the game Future plans Development of the school’s existing multi-use games area facility into an eight-lane retractable net facility Tours Northern Ireland (2026)

PARK VIEW ACADEMY OF SPORT // QUEEN MARY’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL, WALSALL

PARK VIEW ACADEMY OF SPORT

Luke Robinson, Laura Trotter (all Durham), Jack Brassell (Namibia) Brief history Park View started its cricket programme four years ago Church Chare, in partnership with Durham Chester-le-Street, County Ash Thorpe CCC, having huge success Durham DH3 3QA Head of cricket since with individuals and working well with clubs Established 2017 locally, as well as appearing Number of pupils 250 at tournaments including The Head of cricket Ash Thorpe Cricketer Schools 100 in Spain (Durham) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U18, U17, Year 8, Year 7 Girls: 1st XI Fixtures Around 20, including MCC and various national competitions Facilities The school uses Durham CCC facilities and hopes to build an indoor facility Club/county affiliation Durham Best prospects Left-arm quick bowler Brett Hutchinson and allrounder Owen Harwood (both Durham) Cricketers of note Ben McKinney, Mitchell Killeen

Finest moment on the field Making it to the Association of Colleges T20 national finals day in three of the last four years, losing this year in the final Recent progress A number of former students making their way as professionals,

and continuing to develop cricket in the community by putting players through coaching qualifications Future plans Creating new facilities and really growing the school’s female pathway in line with tier one cricket at Durham. The launch of a new educational programme on the theory of cricket, from history to captaincy and player profiles

10 for 17 against Tettenhall College in 1915. Three 1st XI batting records are held by Ian M Wilcox (1990) - most runs in a season (836), most centuries (three) and highest score (191) Recent progress The U13s won the Solihull Sixes competition for the first time as well as finishing runners-up in the Staffordshire Schools Cup, while the U12s and U14s both lost in the semi-final. More pupils have had the

chance to play competitive cricket with more C and D team fixtures at U12 and U13 level Future plans A £2.3m project looking at improving facilities including cricket pitch drainage, re-setting of the top square, extending the pavilion and building a 2G floodlit AstroTurf which will be used for C/D team softball fixtures and training Tours Sri Lanka (2026)

QUEEN MARY’S GRAMMAR SCHOOL, WALSALL

plays for Warwickshire U13 and Wolverhampton CC as a wicketkeeper/opening batter. Last summer, across all his cricket, Manan scored 1,625 runs at 49.24 Sutton Rd, Walsall including 14 fifties. Manan WS1 2PG Alex Hammond has just been awarded a Head of PE/Games sports scholarship to attend Established 1554 & Head of cricket Rugby School Number of pupils 1,400 Cricketers of note David Head of PE/Games & Brown (Warwickshire & England) Head of cricket Alex Hammond Brief history The first recorded Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, match was in 1874 between Queen U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABCD, Mary’s and Walsall CC in Old U12ABCD Chuckery. Queen Mary’s most Fixtures 110-120 per year including illustrious cricketer, David Brown, Wrekin College, Solihull School, The was at the forefront of the school’s King’s School, Worcester, Leicester success in the Walsall Knockout Grammar School, Ellesmere College, Competition in the late 1950s and King Edward’s School, Birmingham early 1960s and Newcastle-under-Lyme School Cultural cricketers Malvind Facilities Indoor sports hall with Benning (Port Vale footballer) four net lanes, three-lane enclosed Finest moment on the field U15 outdoor net facility, 5 BOLA bowling Staffordshire Cup winners (2015 machines (3x Pro and 2x Junior) and & 2019), U14 Staffordshire Cup two squares (Junior square includes winners (2023) and U13 Solihull Sixes an artificial strip). champions (2024) . The RR Taylor Club/county affiliation Bowling Award is presented to the Staffordshire Cricket Board, Walsall leading wicket taker in the 1st XI, CC Aldridge CC, Bronze CC named after a bowler who recorded Best prospect Manan Bhardwaj

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TOP 25 STATE SCHOOLS

READING SCHOOL

READING SCHOOL Erleigh Rd, Reading, Berkshire RG1 5LW Established 1154 Number of pupils 1,104 Director of cricket Ryan Blade Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC Fixtures More than 75, including MCC and touring schools from around the world Facilities New modern cricket nets (two lanes), a 13-pitch grass wicket (covered, with sightscreens and electronic scoreboard), astroturf wicket and a modern pavilion with catering facilities Club/county affiliation Berkshire CCC, West Reading CC Best prospect Opening batter Abdullah Abid. Involved with Berkshire and formerly at Hampshire.

Opens the batting in the Southern Premier Cricket League Premier Division Cricketers of note Tom Dollery (England, Warwickshire), Norman Harding (Kent), Tom Burrows (Hampshire)

Brief history Cricket has been played at the school for at least 200 years. In the school’s early games, the team was strengthened by staff as the student body only consisted of around a hundred. The Old Redingensian Cricket Club was formed in 1923, and played at a nearby ground in Sonning. The school still has links to the ground’s current

owners, Rams RFC Finest moment on the field 2024 – the first win against MCC since 2012 Recent progress Fielding more than 250 players across the season – a quarter of all students. None of this could be possible without the commitment of the staff managing the games, many of whom are not PE teachers or cricket specialists.

There has also been a commitment to scoring every game on Play-Cricket this year – something the boys love as they’re keen to preserve their precious stats Future plans A £28m masterplan developing facilities to commemorate the school’s 900th anniversary. Plans include a state-of-the-art sports hall with indoor nets

ROYAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL, HIGH WYCOMBE // SHENFIELD HIGH SCHOOL

ROYAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL, HIGH WYCOMBE

outstanding players representing the local clubs and local National Counties (Buckinghamshire in particular) with distinction. Since the late 1980s, the 1st XI have participated in the annual RGS Cricket festival, bringing together six RGS Schools playing in a week-long festival of cricket every year in July.

Cultural cricketers Matt Dawson (England rugby union player), Luke Donald (golfer) Finest moment on the field Teddie Casterton scoring a school record of 267 v John Hampden in 2017 - the second-highest score in a schools 50-over match, beating the previous school record of 230 held by Saif Zaib. Casterton went on to become the first pupil from a non-fee paying school to win the Wisden Schools Cricketer of the Year in 2018, having achieved 1,423 runs, including 6 hundreds and 3 fifties, in 21 innings Recent progress The introduction of a ‘Cricket Curriculum’ means that all pupils, from U12 up to U18s, are following a tailored programme to help develop the relevant skills and knowledge from a foundational to more advanced level.

Future plans From September 2025 the school has become coeducational for the Sixth Form, starting an exciting new chapter of girls’ cricket. There will be girls-only sessions throughout the winter ahead of the 2026 season where an U18s side will be entered for the National Cup

Oval Invincibles), Matt Salisbury (Leicestershire, Essex, Durham)

Brief history The Shenfield Cricket Academy programme started in 2013 and with the support of internationally recognised Level 3 coach Cath Dalton over the last 11 years, they have become one of the outstanding state schools for cricket in the country Cultural cricketers Philip Hammond (Ex-Chancellor of the Exchequer), Ross Kemp (actor), Richard Madeley (TV presenter), Chris Whelpdale, Frankie Kent and Lawrie Wilson (professional footballers) Finest moment on the field Winning two national Chance to Shine cricket titles (2015 & 2017 for U15 girls). Reaching the U17 National Schools Cup semi-final in 2017, beating Bedford School in the quarter-final before losing a nailbiting semi-final to Millfield Recent progress Pre-season tours to Cape Town and Bradfield College (U18 girls) provided excellent preparation Future plans Raising funds to upgrade the indoor nets Tours Cape Town, South Africa (2027)

Amersham Rd, High Wycombe HP13 6QT Established 1562 Number of pupils 1,400 Head of cricket Matthew Pardoe (Worcestershire) Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17AB, U15ABCC, U14ABCD, U13 ABCD, U12 ABCD Fixtures Over 100, including MCC, the RGS Festival and block fixtures v Berkhamsted Facilities Three indoor nets, four outdoor nets (astro), two cricket pitches with grass squares, a 4G astro used as a ‘Skill Zone’ in the summer term, and two pop-up soft ball nets Club/county affiliation High Wycombe CC, Beaconsfield CC, Holmer Green CC, Bledlow Ridge CC Best prospect Nipun Chopra is a talented allrounder who represented Berkshire U18 in 2025. He is a stylish batter who can be destructive and bowls leg spin with good variations Cricketers of note Phil Newport (England, Worcestershire), Saif Zaib

(Northamptonshire) Brief history Cricket has played a long-standing part in the tradition of RGS High Wycombe for many decades, providing a comprehensive programme of fixtures against a range of schools in both the private and public sector. It has been the breeding ground for many

SHENFIELD HIGH SCHOOL Alexander Ln, Shenfield, Brentwood CM15 8RY Established 1962 Number of pupils 1450 Director of sport Garry Sapsford Professional Ben Notley-Griffiths Teams Boys: U18, U17, U15, U14, U13, U12 Girls: U17, U15, U13, U12 Fixtures 65 fixtures including Wynberg and Paul Roos on a tour of Cape Town, as well as U17 boys and girls fixtures against Western Australia touring teams in July and the annual MCC fixture Facilities Two outdoor Astro nets, two indoor nets, and an Astro match wicket. The school also use Hutton CC and Shenfield CC for matches Club/county affiliation Shenfield CC, Hutton CC, Bentley CC Best prospect Robin Singh (U13) scored several centuries this season, some of them playing for Essex in age group games. He also broke all school records in an Essex Cup quarter-final fixture, scoring 183 not out from 60 balls in which there were just 4 dots and 13 sixes

Cricketers of note Mady Villiers (England women, Sunrisers,

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SIMON LANGTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR BOYS // SOUTH DARTMOOR COMMUNITY COLLEGE

SIMON LANGTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL FOR BOYS Langton Ln, Nackington Rd, Canterbury CT4 7AS Established 1881 Number of pupils 1250 Director of cricket Jack Gooding Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U15, U14, U13AB, U12AB Fixtures More than 80, including MCC Facilities Two cricket pitches - one grass and one astro wicket. A cage net and two astro nets which are situated on the field. In addition, there are four indoor nets in the sports hall Best prospect Ollie Curtiss, who made his first-class debut for Kent in the summer Cricketers of note Ollie Curtiss (Kent), Simon Cusden (Kent, Derbyshire), Steve Goldsmith (Kent, Derbyshire), Dicky Mayes (Kent) Brief history Cricket has been an integral part of the school’s sporting culture for decades, with a long tradition of competitive play and development since it was founded

in 1881. Over the years, the cricket programme has grown significantly, producing talented cricketers who have gone on to represent county and professional teams Finest moment on the field Beating Westminster School at home in the

last 8 of the National Plate Recent progress A growing number of boys playing cricket at our school, combined with a new partnership with Kent CCC focused on supporting the development of elite players. This has involved Kent

1st XI players including Robbie Joseph and Daniel Bell-Drummond holding training sessions Future plans Using new covers and a new electronic scoreboard, as well as adding more lanes to the net facilities Tours Dubai (2026)

dedication throughout autumn and spring terms which readies them for a summer of competition and success. The college has won

three national titles and has several students representing the county Cultural cricketers Ollie Watkins (England footballer), Josh Widdicombe (comedian), Sam Taylor (England hockey player) Finest moment on the field South Dartmoor have won the national Chance to Shine indoor and outdoor competitions on three occasions for both boys and girls, and are also the current Devon U15 Girls Chance to Shine champions Recent progress The U15 girls team were crowned Chance to Shine county champions – a remarkable achievement that highlights both their talent and dedication.

Impressively, all but one of the players only began playing cricket at the college less than two years ago Future plans Taking students to Taunton to watch Somerset games

SOUTH DARTMOOR COMMUNITY COLLEGE Balland Ln, Ashburton, Newton Abbot TQ13 7EW Established 1965 Number of pupils 899 Head of cricket Rob Pryke Teams Boys: 1st XI, U15, U13 Girls: U15, U13 Fixtures Fixtures against local private and state schools, as well as MCC at Bovey Tracey CC Facilities Four outdoor nets, four indoor nets and the use of Ashburton CC and Bovey Tracey CC Club/county affiliation Devon CCC, Ashburton CC, Bovey Tracey CC, Ipplepen CC Best prospects Albie Bradley represents Devon at U14. A right-arm fast bowler and opening batter, who scored 74 not out against Somerset U14. Gethin Williams represents Devon at U15 level. A right-arm fast bowler who took 3 for 32 against Somerset. Evie Williams represents Devon at U14 level. Allrounder. Owen Williams represents Devon at U12 level. A left-arm fast bowler and top 126 | thecricketer.com

order batter Brief history Cricket is one of the strongest sports at South Dartmoor, built on a culture of practice and

ST BARTHOLOMEW’S SCHOOL, NEWBURY // THE BISHOP’S STORTFORD HIGH SCHOOL

ST BARTHOLOMEW’S SCHOOL, NEWBURY Andover Road, Newbury RG14 6JP Established 1466 Number of pupils 1,900 1st XI convenor Richard Clayton Deputy head of PE David Bateman Teams Boys: 1st XI, U15, U14, U13, U12 Girls: U15, U14, U13, U12 Fixtures Eight games at senior level per season, while younger years will have four league games plus the knockout county cup Facilities Two artificial wickets and a sports hall with a bowling machine and four cricket lanes which, unusually for a state school, are of sufficient length to make them fully enclosed Club/county affiliation Berkshire CCC Best prospect Seb Chapman has played for the past two seasons in the Falkland men’s 1st XI with distinction and Poppy Camplin is Berkshire women’s wicketkeeper and involved with Southern Vipers, while Leo Clark

and Soorya Anbumurasoli (both in Year 11) have represented Middlesex schools Cricketers of note Lauren Bell (England, Southern Vipers), Toby Radford (Middlesex, Sussex) Brief history A non-selective, coeducational comprehensive since 1975, St Bart’s hosted six-day festival weeks until the early 1990s, but cricket gradually petered out at senior level after that. The post-Covid student-led revival has seen more than 25 matches for the 1st XI since, and the invention of the Toby Radford Trophy in 2023 has enabled eight state schools across Berkshire and Oxfordshire to play U18 fixtures that would not otherwise have existed Cultural cricketers Lord Simon Stevens (former chief executive of the NHS), Lucy Worsley (TV historian), Jack Thorne (dramatist), Robert Newton (actor), Ollie Hassell-Collins (England rugby union player) Finest moment on the field Scoring 316 for 6 in a T20 Toby Radford Trophy group game in 2024 was a deserved reward for this generation of first teamers’ talent and application, and a personal triumph for Jimmy Herdman (104 off 30 balls) and Seb Chapman (103 off 42) Recent progress The restoration of the fixture with MCC after about a decade’s absence, the emergence of Logan Wakefield as an opening batter and Alrayaan Hussain’s continued development as an allrounder Future plans Working on a pathway for hardball cricketers from the younger years into the 1st XI and attempting to dovetail senior games more with local clubs’ fixture schedules

THE BISHOP’S STORTFORD HIGH SCHOOL Beaumont Ave, Bishop’s Stortford, Herts CM23 4SH Established 1950 Number of pupils 1,200 Head of cricket Matthew Hale Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15AB, U14ABCD, U13AB, U12ABC Fixtures 72, including MCC Facilities Four lane indoor nets, while off site there is a separate sports facility at Jobber’s Wood which has a large modern pavilion, grass square and two artificial pitches Club/county affiliation Essex CCC Best prospect Harry Wren is a Year 9 top order batsman and right-arm medium pace bowler Brief history Sport became a focus in the early 1980s. A sports hall with four net lanes opened in 1985, along with a pavilion. In 2001 the school opened a purpose-built off-site sports facility at Jobber’s Wood, which has contributed to increased participation Cultural cricketers Greg James (BBC Radio 1 DJ and host of the

Tailenders cricket podcast) What sets the school apart? The vast majority of boys have never played the game before coming to the school. They have drawn heavily on former pupils who have been trained within the school and now work in a range of non-teaching roles whilst gaining additional qualifications in the sector Finest moment on the field Victory again the Prince of Wales College U19’s in Sri Lanka in 2023. alongside victories over the MCC. The latest came in 2025 when a mature batting performance followed an excellent fielding display by a very young side missing many of the star performers from the squad Recent progress Having their first senior female cricketer represent the 1st XI, combined with the continued growth of junior cricket at the school.

More than 150 Year 7, 8 and 9 boys attended sessions before school and four Year 9 teams toured Guernsey this season Future plans The school relocated in the summer of 2024 so are starting fundraising with the view of installing outdoor nets to complement the new indoor facility Tours Guernsey (annual)

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TOP 25 STATE SCHOOLS

THE CANTERBURY ACADEMY // THE CASTLE SCHOOL, TAUNTON

THE CANTERBURY ACADEMY Knight Ave, Canterbury CT2 8QA Director of sport Phil Relf Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, U13 Fixtures Six for the U13 team and 18 for the others. The opening fixture v Whitgift School is the most notable game Facilities Home fixtures are played at Polo Farm Sports Club and St Lawrence & Highland Court CC. The sixth form academy train at Polo Farm and Kent CCC Best prospect Harry Fulton, a top order batter and off-spinner, has captained the 1st XI for five consecutive years and has been involved with Kent Cricketers of note Ryan Davies (Kent, Somerset, Durham), Alexa Stonehouse (South East Stars), Darcey Carter (Scotland), Jaydn Denly (Kent) Brief history in 2014, the East Kent Cricket Academy was formed with Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys. Since then, cricket has flourished at senior level with the U17 side making

THE CASTLE SCHOOL, TAUNTON Wellington Road, Taunton, TA1 5AU Established 1966 Number of pupils 1204 Head of cricket Russell Jones Teams 8 Fixtures On average, between 40-50 including both indoor and outdoor cricket. Notable games include the Forty Club and King’s College Taunton Facilities A sports hall which has four lanes, including a bowling machine. Two outdoor artificial nets.

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a national final in 2022. Senior sides have also regularly won county cups Finest moment on the field Touring Sri Lanka, reaching a

national final and Jaydn Denly receiving a professional contract Recent progress A number of U12 players are now getting regular

hardball cricket Future plans Hopefully, the chance to play cricket in the park that is adjacent to the school

have been tours to Barbados and the school enters every competition possible to give state school children the chance to compete and develop their game. The school embraced girls’ cricket and were ahead of the time for giving opportunities in both the enrichment and curriculum.

There are honours boards for fifties, hundreds, five-wicket hauls, hat-

tricks, county honours and magic moments. These means a lot to the students who strive to get on those boards Finest moment on the field In 2019, the Year 8 girls won the Lady Taverners indoor final at Lord’s Recent progress 1200 students getting taught at least one year of cricket as part of the curriculum

One square with seven grass pitches and an artificial strip. Club grounds at Blagdon Hill and Taunton Deane are also used for some games Club/county affiliation Somerset CCC, Taunton Deane CC Cricketers of note Keith and Kevin Parsons, Matthew Bulbeck (all Somerset), Rob Woodman (Somerset and Gloucestershire) Brief history Castle School has always been renowned as a cricketing school where students have the opportunities to play plenty.

Cricket is on the programme 12 months a year to ensure students are prepared for the seasons. There

THE JUDD SCHOOL // THE SKINNERS’ SCHOOL

THE JUDD SCHOOL Brook St, Tonbridge TN9 2PN Established 1888 Number of pupils 1400 Director of sport Chris Dobson Teams Boys: 1st and 2nd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABC Fixtures Around 80, including MCC and block fixtures on Saturdays, as well as entry into the Kent Cup for U15AB, U14AB, U13AB & U12AB. Facilities Two grass squares and five nets at the school’s playing fields, as well as two artificial pitches. There is a newly established 10-net wide artificial surface built at the school, along with four indoor nets in the sports hall Best prospects Campbell South is enrolled in the Kent Emerging Players Programme. Raj Gupta and Rhys Marshall play for Kent U16, while Yahvin Singal plays for Kent U14 Cricketers of note David Fulton, Julian Thompson and Ekansh Singh (all Kent) Brief history Cricket has been played at the school since it was established in 1888

THE SKINNERS’ SCHOOL St John’s Rd, Tunbridge Wells TN4 9PG Established 1887 Number of pupils 1141

Cultural cricketers Lord Terence Lewin (Chief of Defence Staff), Cecil Powell (Nobel laureate) Finest moment on the field Making the semi-final of the U13 National ESCA David English Cup in 2010

Recent progress In the 2025 season, the school reached the Kent Cup finals for U12, U13, U15 and 1st XI sides. The U15s went on to play in the ESCA U15 T20 competition Future plans Continuation of the

Judd Premier League competition, which has enabled many pupils not involved in A-C fixtures to participate in competitive cricket during the summer Tours Barbados (2027)

Head of cricket Will Burrows Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABCD Fixtures 120 across the whole school.

The 1st XI play Tonbridge School and Sevenoaks School, as well as a senior cricket festival in the first week of July

involving MCC, the Forty Club, and Band of Brothers CC. The 1st and 2nd XI also host an Australian touring school each year Facilities A sports hall that allows five indoor nets, with access to two BOLA bowling machines. Alongside

the HD cameras on tripods, they have the use of iPads that allow students to carry out peer video analysis during sessions. The main cricket square consists of nine match pitches and a block of five practice pitches, plus two artificial wickets that are used by younger age groups. Five retractable nets also allow pupils to take part in school indoor games and fielding practice Club/county affiliation Tunbridge Wells CC, Southborough CC Best prospect Ben Dawkins, a wicketkeeper-batter who made his first-class debut for Kent in 2025 Cricketers of note Bob Woolmer (England, Kent) Brief history Cricket at Skinners’ has been played for well over 100 years Finest moment on the field Having the strength to enter a 2nd XI in a 1st XI T20 competition Recent progress The number of pupils who are keen to play competitive cricket has been incredibly healthy Future plans Looking to further develop links with local primary schools to host cricket events at the school’s playing fields thecricketer.com | 129

TOP 25 STATE SCHOOLS

WALLINGTON COUNTY GRAMMAR SCHOOL // WEYDON SCHOOL

match. The game went right to the wire and the total was chased down with just eight balls to spare Recent progress More than 50 Year 7 students attending training thanks to the Surrey Cricket Foundation, who have visited the school to deliver bespoke CPD sessions to upskill coaching staff Future plans Continuing to engage with alumni so they excel in cricket after leaving school Tours Sri Lanka (2026)

WALLINGTON COUNTY GRAMMAR SCHOOL Croydon Rd, Wallington SM6 7PH Established 1927 Number of pupils 1102 Master in charge Joe Henderson Teams Boys: 11 Fixtures More than 90, including an annual cricket week which includes senior fixtures against the Forty Club,

WEYDON SCHOOL Weydon Ln, Farnham GU9 8UG Head of cricket Nathan Edwards Professional Justin Felsch Teams 7 Fixtures Typically 5-7 per team, with some progressing further in the ESSA cup and some teams winning their county cups Facilities A cricket square, two grass nets, a grass wicket, and a sports hall which can host indoor games as well as a two-lane net system Club/county affiliation Rowledge CC Best prospect Edward Lill is a leg-break bowler in the year 7 team who is currently in the Surrey set-up and has showed excellent promise with both bat and ball.

Averaging just shy of 50 with the bat, Ed has proved a lethal opener who finds the boundaries with ease Cricketers of note Graham Thorpe (England and Surrey), Dani Gregory (Surrey, South East Stars) 130 | thecricketer.com

Wilson’s School, an Alumnus XI, and a T20 game against a Staff XI Facilities Three outdoor astroturf nets, along with four indoor astroturf nets in our sports hall. House cricket competitions take place at Beddington CC, with home fixtures at the school and Walcountians Sports Club Club/county affiliation We have worked with external coaches from First Ball Academy, and in July Brief history Weydon School has always had cricket success, but in the last five to 10 years has really kicked on and become known for its cricket prowess across the county and local area Finest moment on the field Being U12 county cup and district league winners in 2023 Recent progress The sheer amount of interest and participation in the girls’ teams has been the real game changer – and has even inspired one teacher to join up to a local cricket club Future plans Increasing the number of teams to two per year by involving more staff in coaching

hosted an exhibition fixture where a mixed team of WCGS XI and First Ball Academy took on the British Army Royal Electrical & Mechanical Engineers Best prospect Manveer Singh Saini is a destructive batter in Year 10. In 2025, he scored a total of 1500 runs including 4 centuries and a 98 Finest moment on the field The 1st XI securing a nail-biting victory over local rivals Wilson’s in a 40-over

WILSON’S SCHOOL // WYMONDHAM COLLEGE

WYMONDHAM COLLEGE WILSON’S SCHOOL Mollison Dr, Wallington SM6 9JW Established 1815 Number of pupils 1,320 Head of cricket John Fry Teams Boys: 17 - 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U17, U16, U15AB, U14ABC, U13ABCD, U12ABCD Fixtures 152. Notable fixtures 1st XI matches against MCC and the Forty Club Facilities Two indoor nets, five outdoor artificial nets, one grass square and one non-turf pitch Club/county affiliation Sutton CC, Banstead CC Best prospect Hard-hitting opener U18 Ansh Bansal, who also bowls legspin was selected for the Surrey CCC academy squad that toured Sri Lanka two years in a row Cricketers of note Neil Kendrick (Surrey, Glamorgan) Brief history Cricket has a longstanding tradition at Wilson’s School.

The walls of the foundation building showcase team photos from previous

decades and centuries when the school was originally located in Camberwell. They maintain a strong link with the Old Wilsonians and many former pupils also play a high standard in the Surrey Championship Cultural cricketers Sir Michael Caine (actor), John Galliano (fashion designer), Pascal Anson (artist and designer) Finest moment on the field Victory over MCC in 2015 and the school’s first ever victory over Whitgift School, by 16 runs, in the 2021 National Cup Recent progress The school has entered into the Surrey Cricket Foundation indoor tournaments with the U13s and U15s. The U13s have won this tournament for the past two years. PE staff are becoming Level 2 cricket coaches Future plans They have entered the school’s B teams into the state school league that is organised by the Surrey Schools Cricket Association. This is a new initiative for the school’s B teams to play against state school A team opposition Tours Barbados (2026)

Golf Links Rd, Wymondham, Norfolk NR18 9SZ Established 1951 Number of pupils 1,439 (560 boarders) Director of cricket Richard Grove Teams Boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U17, U15AB, U14AB, U13AB, U12A Girls: 1st XI, U17, U15, U14, U13, U12 Fixtures Around 85 – including MCC men and women and an Old Boys’ XI. The first game against an Old Girls’ XI was held in the summer Facilities Three grass cricket squares, four indoor nets and six outside astro nets Club/county affiliation Great Melton CC, Swardeston CC, Rocklands CC, Great Ellingham CC, Brooke CC Best prospect Samia Mohammed is a batter and off spinner in Year 10 who has played for Norfolk and was part of the Sunrisers EPP squad last year Brief history Wymondham College was founded in 1951 in the buildings of a Second World War US army hospital. In 2010, the 1st XI boys played MCC for the first time while the corresponding women’s fixture

was held for the first time in 2023 Cultural cricketers Rugby union players Will Evans (Harlequins) and George Worth (Leicester Tigers) What sets the school apart?

They are the only state school in Norfolk to run a full Saturday fixture programme for all age groups from Year 7 to sixth form against local independent schools. The 1st XI Boys’ and 1st XI Girls’ captains are siblings Corey and Niamh Rushton, while both senior teams designed their own T20 kits Finest moment on the field In 2022, the 1st XI girls in the last 16 of the National T20 competition, in their first season. They beat MCC the following season and made the Eclipse U17 National Plate semi-finals in 2024. In 2023, 1st XI boys made last 32 of the National U17 Cup and, in 2024, the T20 National Plate regional semi finals Recent progress More than 70 girls have played this year and three female staff have taken their first cricket matches, attending coaching and umpiring courses, while more than 100 boys have represented the school Future plans Hosting more softball tournaments for local state schools thecricketer.com | 131

TOP 20

ALL-GIRLS SCHOOLS New county structure is good news for women’s and girls’ cricket at all levels World Cup and Ashes winner Lydia Greenway, now an England selector, looks back on a year of transition in the women’s game… and shares her excitement for its future

T

he England women’s set-up is in a period of change in terms of how they play the game, particularly in 50-over cricket, which comes with excitement but also expectation.

Charlotte Edwards coming in and taking over has been a real positive move because she knows the game more than anyone, but fans will need to be patient while she works on getting the team where they need to be.

This coming year, we’ll be looking forward to a home T20 World Cup. We saw the impact of having a World Cup in England back in 2017 with a final at Lord’s against India, where you couldn’t have asked for a better game, venue or crowd to showcase the women’s game.

Something the ECB have been doing really well has been challenging themselves when it comes to ticket sales at those bigger grounds like Edgbaston, the Kia Oval and Lord’s.

One of the key things we know in women’s sport is that you have to invest – you can’t just expect something to happen – and that’s what they’ve been doing. Hopefully that will have a successful effect on crowds for next year.

We’ve also got the first ever women’s Test to be held at Lord’s in the coming summer, against India, which is really exciting.

The change to the domestic structure in England, which has

aligned women’s professional cricket with counties, has been really positive.

The first thing I noticed with this new change was that a lot of games are now being played on better pitches at bigger grounds with full-time groundstaff.

Early on in the season, we saw quite a few individual hundreds scored, which was pleasing and a tangible way of showing the difference the restructure has made.

There have been a few teething issues, which were bound to happen, but I’m sure each individual county will now know the things they want to get better at.

We’ve also got fans of men’s county cricket now getting curious, peering over the fence and asking what this is all about, so hopefully this will get more of them coming to watch women’s games too.

I’m a big fan of the county T20 women’s and men’s double-header games.

When it first happened at international level, in 2009, we saw a lot more people taking an interest in the women’s game and I think we’ll now start seeing that at county level too. Then, hopefully, the women’s

games can stand on their own two feet and become events in their own right too.

The domestic restructure has also had an effect in schools, where I spend a lot of time.

Often, you might have a female member of staff who’s new to cricket and doesn’t know where to start, along with a male member of staff who wasn’t in step with how girls’ pathways would work.

Now, because it’s the same as how it would work for the boys, they don’t have that issue.

I’m on the ECB’s state schools taskforce and one of the things I’m really excited about is the new Knight-Stokes Cup for state schools, which is going to give state-educated boys and girls the chance of playing in a dream final at Lord’s for their school team.

At grassroots level, I’m really pleased with the way many clubs have embraced women’s festivals.

They’ve been a real success, particularly helping older women who never had the chance to play at their school and women who just fell out of love with cricket.

It’s regenerated that love for a lot of women it’s a really good entry point for girls who don’t want to play hardball cricket too.

Clubs are doing the right thing by investing in facilities that will help that aspect of the game to grow. thecricketer.com | 133

TOP 20 GIRLS SCHOOLS

CHELTENHAM LADIES’ COLLEGE Bayshill Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 3EP Established 1853 Number of pupils 855 Head of cricket Fiona Najim Teams U12–U15AB, 1st XI Brief history Cricket has always been an integral part of sport and physical

DENMARK ROAD HIGH SCHOOL Denmark Road, Gloucester, GL1 3JN Established 1883 Number of pupils 988 Head of cricket James Schofield (teacher), Luke Woolway (head coach) Teams One each at U12, U13, U14 and U15 Brief history Cricket at Denmark Road is all about giving girls of all levels a chance to play as much as possible. The main competitions entered are 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; most notable fixture is against our local rivals King’s School, Gloucester, in annual hardball friendly matches Facilities A variety of spaces for cricket practice – a small sports hall, the tennis courts, and sports fields 134 | thecricketer.com

CHELTENHAM LADIES’ COLLEGE // DENMARK ROAD HIGH SCHOOL

activity at CLC. There are records dating back to 1809 when the then principal at the time wrote in her diary: “We have secured a playing field to supplement the garden attached to the houses, and have introduced, besides lawn-tennis, rounders, and even cricket.” This is now more commonly known as ‘Field’ and is the hub of the school’s sporting calendar Facilities A six-lane square on the main field, with junior fixtures on the

Field; three-lane indoor nets Fixtures A standout fixture was hosting Woldingham College, who were on tour in Cheltenham, for a under-15 T20 game; and the U13s welcomed Cheltenham CC for a hardball pairs game Club/county affiliation Established partnership with Gloucestershire CCC, and Cheltenham CC, who use the school’s facilities for winter training and summer matches

What sets the school apart? The driving force behind the programme at Cheltenham Ladies’ College is girls having positive experiences within sport. The school is fully committed to ensuring that every girl can find a sport or activity that they can do for life. A number of girls are involved with the Gloucestershire Cricket Board pathway and playing integral roles within the local club scene Finest moment on the field The best moment was playing T20 hardball cricket in Barbados against their U19 national team Recent progress Cricket participation continues to rise and the pupils have an innate desire to learn. The school predominately plays softball for under12s but introducing and developing hard ball from U13 upwards Future plans Continuing to engage pupils, giving them opportunities to challenge themselves, extending their cricket knowledge and gaining exposure to the hardball game Tours After a successful trip to Barbados with netball and cricket teams, the school is looking forward to planning the next one and intent on running a cricket tour every four years

Club/county affiliations A local indoor school (22 yards in Gloucester) for hardball nets; Gloucestershire Cricket Foundation, and a number of the girls play at clubs in the local area and for

Gloucestershire county age groups Best prospect Flossie Parsons, who is U14 and plays at Cheltenham CC, as well as being involved in the Gloucestershire girls’ county squad

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

DOWNE HOUSE SCHOOL // GODOLPHIN & LATYMER SCHOOL

GODOLPHIN & LATYMER SCHOOL Iffley Rd, London, W6 0PG

DOWNE HOUSE SCHOOL Hermitage Road, Cold Ash, Thatcham, RG18 9JJ Established 1907 Number of pupils 600 Head of cricket Tash Bott Teams U12AB, U13AB, U14AB, U15AB and 1st XI Brief history Cricket was started from scratch five years ago Fixtures About 40 in the summer term. All hardball, with the exception of one softball tournament at U12 and three softball matches for U12 and U13 year groups. The most notable fixture is the Cricket Paper Cup for U15 and U18 age groups Facilities New indoor nets, two lanes, built in March 2024. Two grass pitches, one with a Flicx wicket. Home ground is Chieveley CC Future plans Developing outdoor

facilities, including two nets Club/county affiliation Chieveley CC. The school uses their pitches, they use the school’s indoor nets Best prospect Maya Benson despite being in the U14 age group, she is already playing in the 1st XI. She opens the bowling and is a regular wicket-taker. She plays for Falkland CC Finest moment on the field Beating Bradfield College in an U14A fixture with three balls to spare Recent progress More girls than ever are playing cricket at Downe. There are also more timetabled cricket lessons than there have been in the past. New indoor nets are being used throughout the year. There are more teachers running their own teams this year Future plans New facilities outdoors is the main aim. Continue the work with Chieveley CC

Established 1905 Number of pupils 820 Head of cricket Ellen Elfick Professionals Mark Mason (Worcestershire) Teams Hardball U18, U14/15 combined, U12/13 combined; Softball U14B, U13ABC, U12ABC Fixtures 34 this year, with an increase of hardball. U13 came third in the ECB indoor competition and reached the Middlesex Cup semi-finals Facilities 4 nets in a sports hall, 3 astro pitches for softball/one indoor pitch on-site, a BOLA Junior bowling machine. Hardball training offered on-site within nets and have purchased extra matting so all four nets can be used simultaneously Club/county affiliation Richmond CC, Spencer CC and Shepherd’s Bush CC. Mark and Buddy Mason run the MCC Girls section which gives many girls the opportunity to play competitive hardball cricket, and train indoors at Lord’s throughout winter – with a number of girls going on to play county cricket. Also have great representation within the Hammersmith & Fulham London Youth Games squad crowned champions on many occasions Best prospect Many cricketers well established in Warwickshire, Middlesex and Surrey.

An U15 who is part of the Essex U21 programme

Cricketers of note Gayatri Gole (Sunrisers), Shimako Kato (Japan Women) Brief history The extracurricular cricket club launched in 2005 with 30 girls and one coach now has over 100 attending each week, with four external coaches and Elfick. The school also have an elite academy for gifted players. They changed the entire summer term curriculum from rounders to cricket and only stage cricket fixtures. They increased U13 hardball fixtures in the programme and enter the Middlesex Cup Finest moment on the field Winning the ECB indoor/Lady Taverners national finals with U13 in 2011 and U15 in 2024. Reaching ECB indoor national finals on several occasions and becoming champions in 2011 (U13) and 2024 (U15) as well as runners-up in 2017 (U13) and third in 2025 (U13) Recent progress Offer regular hardball training throughout the year at the weekly cricket club. They offer softball to those who wish to start with it. During the summer term the offer of a non-paid club for girls who wish to play seasonally. This is attended both by regular cricketers but also another 20–25 girls across Year 7 and 8 who do not play in the winter months. Whole department inset from Middlesex coaches and staff getting more involved in development of hardball cricket Future plans Development of hardball training thecricketer.com | 135

TOP 20 GIRLS SCHOOLS

The school uses Stoke Park GUILDFORD HIGH SCHOOL schools. (which the school backs on to, owned London Road, Guildford, GU1 1SJ

Established 1888 Number of pupils 1000 Coaches Ben Collins (PE teacher and head of cricket) Teams U8ABCDE softball, U9ABCDE softball , U10ABCDE softball, U11ABCDE softball, U12ABCDE softball and hardball, U13ABCDE softball and hardball, U14ABCD softball and hardball, U15AB softball and hardball Brief history Cricket has been an extra-curricular club for 11 years and from 2019 it has been a main curriculum summer sport. The school has grown from having one extracurricular team to 39 Fixtures Six softball pairs matches per year group for all junior school students from Yrs 3-6. The Y6A team enters U11 softball tournament and the U11 IAPS festival. In the senior school, the Yrs 7–10 students can play in weekly after-school fixtures against opposing schools during the summer term. The U13 and U15s enter the Surrey Hardball Cups, as well as the U15s and U13s in the National Cup. An ‘Internal World Cup’ was introduced for the 2025 summer. It was a great success Facilities 4 nets in the sports hall and 2 outdoor artificial nets (installed for the 2023 summer), along with one cage alongside nets and on the squares. Two squares on the school pitch, used by the junior and senior 136 | thecricketer.com

by Guildford Borough Council) for lessons, and hire two pitches for fixtures. The school uses a bowling machine in the winter, helping the girls with batting technique and confidence facing hardballs Future plans Junior School: All softball currently. U11A and B teams may be given opportunity to play hardball during curriculum lessons in 2026 and during Easter and Summer camps. Senior School: All students from Yrs 7–10 are given option of hardball or softball. In each year group A and B teams playing hardball in lessons and against opposing schools Club/county affiliation Lydia Greenway runs a yearly course for senior school students. A Cricket for Girls Teachers Inset is also staged.

Surrey Cricket coaches impart their knowledge to the students during winter nets. Links with Blackheath, Esher, Guildford, Horsley & Send and Merrow CCs Best prospects Sahana Aiyer and Zara Iqbal (both U15 allrounders); Daisy Sutton (U14 allrounder); Bailey Bird (U13 allrounder) Finest moment on the field U13 hardball team reaching the QFs of the Surrey Cup and the National Cup Regional Final v Sevenoaks (after beating St Edmunds, Kingston GS, Hurstpierpoint College and Forest School) Future plans Organising a trip to an England Women’s T20; Tour to Sussex in 2026

GUILDFORD HIGH SCHOOL // KING EDWARD VI HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS

KING EDWARD VI HIGH SCHOOL FOR GIRLS Edgbaston Park Rd, Birmingham, B15 2UB Established 1883 Number of pupils 662 Head of cricket Sophie Grayson (Oxfordshire CCC; ex-Warwickshire CCC player and now pathway coach), and Joe Staite Teams U12AB, U13AB, U14, U15 Brief history Cricket became part of the PE curriculum in 2014 and gained momentum in 2021, replacing rounders as the main summer sport.

The first hardball match was played in 2022, and the sport is now played year-round Fixtures 55 across the indoor and outdoor calendar, a big increase.

This includes 18 hardball, 19 softball, and three indoor tournaments, in midweek and at weekends. The Sister n Sport tournaments at U12, U13, and U15, the Warwick Schools T20, the School Sports Magazine National T20 Cup, and the ECB Indoor Schools Competition Facilities One grass pitch, four indoor lanes in the new facilities in the refurbished sports hall. Use of the neighbouring boys’ school’s grass pitches for hardball matches.

Future plans More T20 hardball fixtures on Saturdays. Expand access to fixtures across all age groups. Launch the school’s first senior (sixth form) team. Hosting a hardball festival for local schools.

Integrating cricket into the sixth form PE curriculum. Continuing to leverage Grayson’s coaching to develop

county standard players Club/county affiliation KEHS, in partnership with the wider King Edward VI Foundation, is working with Warwickshire CCC to develop coaching programmes across Birmingham primary and secondary schools Best prospects Indira Singh (a talented allrounder recently called up to the Warwickshire women’s 1st XI); Anusha Singh (a consistent performer who represents Warwickshire U18s and Shropshire U14s. She has a batting average of 46.29 across 10 county matches, including a top score of 94) Recent progress A standout achievement came in May 2024, when the Under-13s reached the ECB Indoor National finals at Lord’s, finishing joint third nationally. The U13 and U15 teams are now competing in both the Warwickshire Schools T20 and the School Sports Magazine T20 tournaments. Several current students are excelling in the county and regional set-ups. There has been an 80 per cent increase in hardball fixtures in 12 months. The school has invested in facilities to meet growing demand and is exploring installation of an astro wicket and sightscreen to enhance matchday and training experiences. The addition of four indoor nets has been transformative Finest moment on the field The under-13s finishing joint third at the ECB Indoor National Finals at Lord’s, including a hat-trick featuring two wickets by Lily Trott and a run-out Future plans Astro wicket and sightscreen installation. Senior team launch

LADY ELEANOR HOLLES // LOUGHBOROUGH HIGH SCHOOL

LADY ELEANOR HOLLES

coach to help with the winter training Club/county affiliation Students are encouraged to attend external clubs near to where they live, including Bushy Park and Richmond Best prospects There are several outstanding cricketers at the school who represent

Surrey, Middlesex, Berkshire and Rajasthan Royals Academy What sets the school apart? The school provides the opportunity for girls to learn, participate and compete in cricket. A platform has been created for students at different levels to engage in cricket and be challenged through skill development or competition. The school hosts block fixtures and provides the girls with the facilities to play without having to compete in boys’ cricket Finest moment on the field The Under-13s winning the borough competition this year and making the final of the Middlesex Schools Competition Recent progress The cup teams have taken on the new challenge of competing against the next level of competition and not just local opponents. As it is still a young program at LEH the students have not been rushed into hardball competitive situations. The school has acquired the latest equipment to make sure students are protected when participating

competitively and develop tactical knowledge. Continuing to build links with local clubs and Leicestershire CC. To utilise local facilities during the winter and to increase CPD offer to staff to upskill coaches. Offer of sports scholarships to attract and support new and existing pupils More CPD opportunities for staff and students tp umpire Club/county affiliation Loughborough Town CC, Leicestershire CC Best prospects Prisha Thanawala

(Year 13 allrounder, England U19 and The Blaze) Finest moment on the field Third in the U15 indoor regional finals.

Entering the U15 School Sport Magazine U15 Cup Recent progress Competing against top-quality local opposition and fielding a full fixture programme offering hardball and softball Tours U15s to Leeds. This year the school celebrates its 175th birthday and offered a first girls’ cricket tour

Hanworth Road, Hampton, TW12 3HF Established 1710 Number of pupils 1,010 Head of cricket Chris Summers Teams U15A, U14AB, U13AB, U12ABC Brief history The cricket at LEH is continuing to grow with more students playing both hardball and softball. The Under-13s and Under-15 hardball teams were entered into the School Sports Magazine T20 national tournament for the first time, reaching the second regional round. Both teams entered the Middlesex Schools Competition, with the U15s reaching the semi-final and the U13s reaching the final. At the younger ages more and more students want to play cricket. A pleasing growth is the number of students who go and join a club after their experience at school Fixtures Last season the school had a denser fixture calendar, with the tournament teams playing 11

LOUGHBOROUGH HIGH SCHOOL Burton Walks, Loughborough, LE11 2DU Established 1850 Number of pupils 571 Head of cricket Alice Quemby Teams U12AB, U13AB, U14AB, U15 Brief history Cricket has developed greatly in the last few years having gone from no cricket to now all girls having the opportunity to play during games. The extra-curricular club programme has gone from strength to strength, starting in the winter with nets and an indoor programme to regular numbers attending summer clubs. There are weekly block fixtures against other schools across all age groups. All KS3 girls take part in interhouse competitions Fixtures Block fixtures most Saturdays in the summer term as well as midweek games against local opposition.

This year the most notable fixture was against Kings High U15; it saw a great

fixtures and the other hardball teams playing six Facilities Three pitches and two mobile cages Future plans To add either external stationary nets or internal nets. To develop a winter indoor training programme next year. Adding a display of cricket from both teams Facilities Two indoor sports halls, indoor and outdoor nets, five pitches at the Quorn site and the 1st XI pitch on campus. The school also trains at Loughborough Town CC Future plans Continuing to step up hardball and softball opportunities for girls at all levels so that there is a suitable level for all to play at.

Expanding the fixture programme to offer more opportunities for their girls to play

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TOP 20 GIRLS SCHOOLS

MALVERN ST JAMES (Previously Malvern St James Girls’ School) 15 Avenue Road, Malvern WR14 3BA Established 1893 Number of pupils 266 Head of cricket Hannah Leathart Teams U8, U9, U10, U11, U13 AB, U15 AB, U18, Indoor U13, U15 Brief history Since the introduction of cricket in 2022 the programme has developed and grown considerably.

The school moved to be coeducational in September, so now is looking forward to boys joining the programme. An increasing number of students are also now playing cricket with local clubs Fixtures All students in Year 7 upwards have the chance to play hardball fixtures at weekends and during the week.

Alongside this the school runs a programme of Incrediball matches for those students in the senior school who are not playing hardball

cricket, to ensure that all students get the chance to play Facilities Indoor nets were installed last summer, and the pavilion will also start to be redeveloped this winter.

The school has the use of a Flicx wicket on the grass pitches, and use of astroturf.

Future plans To install an artificial strip on the fields to allow more hardball fixtures. The addition of indoor nets and a bowling machine will allow students to train throughout the year and facilitate more oneto-one specialist and small group coaching. Junior students will also be transitioning to hardball cricket.

Staff have benefitted from attending coaching conferences such as Independent Coach Education Girls Cricket Conference Club/county affiliation Pershore and Barnards Green CCs Best prospects An increasing number of students are involved in Herefordshire and Worcestershire academy programmes Finest moment on the field The U15 hardball team winning a match for the first time this season Recent progress The progress of junior students who have had the benefit of three years of Incrediball cricket as the core element of their summer games programme.

Tours Proposed weekend trips during the summer term

MALVERN ST JAMES // MAYFIELD SCHOOL

MAYFIELD SCHOOL

Brief history Cricket started at Mayfield in 2016 and is now at a stage where The Old Palace, they are competing with the High Street, Mayfield, ‘bigger’ schools and have Sussex, TN20 6PH been invited to two festivals in July, at Ampleforth and Established 1872 Jordan Walser Apex at Millfield Number of pupils 401 Head of cricket Finest moment on the Head of cricket field On the joint 2025 Jordan Walser cricket and netball tour to Dubai, the Teams 1st XI, U15ABC, U14AB, school were able to play eight fixtures U13ABCD against strong UAE opposition. The Fixtures A projected 25 hardball hardball team won half of their games, fixtures against schools. Similar if not playing some incredible cricket, and slightly more than this in softball the softball team won all four of their Facilities Access to two astrogames surface nets all year round. Building Recent progress The number of links with local clubs such as Buxted pupils who now play cricket for a local Park and Mayfield to gain access of club is incredibly pleasing and this the pitch and nets throughout the has had an infectious domino effect season. They attend a club session on other girls at the school. All the once a week at Buxted Club/county affiliation The head of PE department is now comfortable umpiring and scoring cricket at cricket visited a local primary school various levels (Rotherfield) to run a cricket day for Future plans Short-term plan to their Year 2 through to Year 6. They find a location where the school can have been invited back next year. run winter nets to ensure girls are as They also have Skippers Hill Prep ready as they can be for the upcoming School attend the school for an hour season for both hardball and softball. from time to time where Walser will 2025 was the first year of the higher lead a session for their girls, which is partly outreach for the school but also end cricketers using an Individual again an aim to grow local girls’ cricket Development Plan to develop their game and if it proves to be successful, Best prospect Florence York, a they will roll it out to more pupils next 14-year-old leg spinner and opening year. They will also continue to go into batter who represents Kent in her primary schools in the area age bracket

NOTTING HILL & EALING HIGH SCHOOL

NOTTING HILL & EALING HIGH SCHOOL 2 Cleveland Rd, London W13 8AX Established 1873 Number of pupils 900 Head of cricket Andy Bennett (Director of Sport) and Mr Pratyesh Desai Professional Juan Henri Teams U15, U14, U13AB, U12AB, U11 Fixtures Last school year Notting Hill & Ealing played a total of 32 hardball and softball fixtures across age groups. Hardball teams competed in several tournaments, including the U13 and U15 Middlesex Schools Hardball Cup, the School Sports Magazine National Competition, and U15 GDST Hardball Regional Qualifiers. The most notable fixtures v Putney, Wimbledon and South Hampstead – some of the highestquality school cricket in the region Facilities Indoor nets in the school sports hall, providing year-round training opportunities regardless of weather. For outdoor facilities, they make regular use of pitches at Brentham CC and Actonians

Sports Club. In addition, they access the sports fields and state-of-theart indoor cricket nets at Ealing Trailfinders CC. These high-quality local facilities significantly enhance the cricket provision Club/county affiliation Several senior girls volunteer at local clubs as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award Best prospect Lilly Bachir, an

aspiring allrounder currently playing for Middlesex U15s. Swara Dusad, a talented fast bowler in Year 7, currently represents Middlesex at U12. Suhana Chahal has developed into a fantastic cricketer and continues to progress within the Middlesex pathway Brief history In 1887, 13-year-old Georgina Walrond persuaded the Headmistress to let girls play cricket.

NHEHS won their first match against Princess Helena College. Cricket was reintroduced in 2017 with just eight girls; by 2019, participation had grown significantly. The U12, U13, and U15 teams have consistently won or placed in the Lady Taverners Tournament, and in 2024, the U13s won the Middlesex County Cup. This year, they reached the U13 and U15 Middlesex semi-finals and progressed to round three of the National Cup – a school first Finest moment on the field In 2024, U13s were Middlesex county champions. This year U15s secured a thrilling victory v Putney High School by just one run while calmly chasing 148 Recent progress Employed a cricket specialist PE teacher Future plans The school hope to inspire more girls to join partner clubs to strengthen cricket in Middlesex. They want to embed hardball skills into PE lessons from Year 7 to 9, increasing the number of children accessing our Select Cricket Programme, supported with more high-performance coaching. NHEHS will continue successful partnership with Trailfinders Sports Club

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TOP 20 GIRLS SCHOOLS PORTSMOUTH HIGH SCHOOL Kent Road, Southsea, Portsmouth PO5 3EQ Established 1882 Number of pupils 490 Head of cricket Rebecca Vaughan-Woods Teams 1st XI, U15AB, U14A, U13ABC, U12AB, U11AB, U10AB, U9AB, U8AB Fixtures In 2025 U14 and U15s played hardball pairs for most of their friendlies with a handful of softball games.

Including both indoor and outdoor fixtures, senior pupils participated in over 60 fixtures in 2025. The most notable fixture for the 1st XI was St Swithun’s in the first round of the U18 National Cup. U13, U14 and U15A teams all took part in the Hampshire Cup v KES Southampton, Portsmouth Grammar and St

PUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL 35 Putney Hill, London SW15 6BH Established 1893 Number of pupils 1,060 Head of cricket Emilie Elston Professional Joe Allen

140 | thecricketer.com

Swithun’s. The U15s held their own in GDST regional hardball v Putney HS, Wimbledon HS and Notting Hill & Ealing HS. U14 and U15s really enjoy the softball format. From U8 through to U11 the focus continues to be softball pairs. The prep school play in regular weekly fixtures and festivals from Year 3. Cricket skills are on curriculum from Reception Facilities Sport England-standard sports hall for all aspects of training at the senior school. A small, enclosed astroturf pitch at the prep school. The prep school recently invested in a Feed Buddy PRO to help develop batting skills lower down the school. Use of Portsmouth CC for training and fixtures in the summer term, with two astro nets, cut grass square, a training square and two astro pitches. HMS Temeraire Sports Ground also used for Prep fixtures Teams Softball: U13ABCD, U12ABCD; Hardball: U15A, U14A, U13AB, U12AB Fixtures This year, Putney High School prioritised as many playing opportunities as possible, kicking off with early-season fixtures against other schools. Participation in the

PORTSMOUTH HIGH SCHOOL // PUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL

Club/county affiliation This season girls’ cricket festivals at Portsmouth CC towards the end of the term, with invites to local state and independent schools Best prospect Darcey Clarke (Dorset Women and Southern Vipers EPP), an opening batter averaging 40. Annabelle Elsley (Hampshire U11 allrounder) Brief history The senior school restarted competitive cricket in 2022 with one team at each junior age group U8/9-U15. The prep school started cricket in their curriculum in 2019 Finest moment on the field Abigail

Rees, U15 captain, took a chunk out of the stump against Ryde Recent progress This year KS3 house cricket demonstrated progress, with most girls displaying a very good standard. House teams were confident in discussing strategy and applying tactics Future plans In 2025 Portsmouth entered three teams (U13, U14, U15) in the 8-a-side Hampshire Cup and expect to enter four next season. The school continue to be adaptable, listening to feedback from pupils and offering formats attracting the greatest interest

Surrey and MCC indoor tournaments during spring kept momentum high.

As summer arrived, hardball took centre stage, with all year groups competing in the Surrey Cricket Cup and the School Sport Magazine Cup. Regular softball friendly matches against local schools ensured a wellrounded season for all abilities Facilities Despite limited on-site facilities, just a small astro and two indoor nets, the school are fortunate to partner with Wimbledon CC. Their five outdoor nets and a full-size hybrid pitch with a large outfield provide players with the space and quality needed Club/county affiliations Partnering with nearby facilities such as Barn Elms, Roehampton Playing Fields, and Wimbledon CC allows the school to overcome space limitations while offering students access to highquality training environments Best prospect The natural talent and athleticism of pupils make them strong contenders at every level. At Putney, every girl has the potential to be a standout prospect. They’re proud to see a growing number selected for the Surrey and Middlesex

county programmes, a testament to the strength of their coaching and the dedication of the players Brief history Introduced seven years ago as a replacement for rounders, cricket has flourished.

Each year, more girls have joined the programme. Now firmly established as a key summer sport, cricket plays a major role in both the curriculum and extracurricular activities Finest moment on the field U15s delivered an outstanding performance in the Surrey Cup quarter-finals, posting an impressive 174 for 4 Recent progress Over the past year, Putney significantly increased player numbers. Strengthening the partnership with Wimbledon has been key, enabling regular training during sports lessons and after school Future plans Aim to expand winter nets to keep players sharp and engaged during the off-season.

Putney also attended the Apex Festival, the school’s first cricket tour and residential Tours Plans to introduce pre-season training during the Easter holidays. Aim to expand their touring programme

ROEDEAN SCHOOL

ROEDEAN SCHOOL Roedean Way, Brighton and Hove BN2 5RQ Established 1885 Number of pupils 620 Head of performance and cricket Mike Smethurst Professional Umar Amin (Pakistan) Teams 13 (1st XI, U15ABC, U14ABC, U13ABC, U12ABC) Fixtures 43 hardball and 18 softball.

Cricket with Cecilia Robinson, 1955

MEET THE HEAD OF PERFORMANCE AND CRICKET

The most notable fixture is MCC Women, who Roedean hosted in 2025 for the first time in around a decade Facilities In March 2025 Roedean had a third astro wicket installed on the main cricket field. They host both hardball and softball games on those, with softball fixtures on an astroturf hockey pitch. This allows the school to host 1st XI, U15 and U14 hardball fixtures on a full-sized pitch. This follows the summer 2024 installation of an eight-metre high net along the southern edge of the cricket pitch allowing hardball fixtures. The sports hall is used to host Lady Taverners regional rounds and includes 3 lanes of nets for use in winter training Club/county affiliation Historically Roedean had an informal partnership with Rottingdean CC to use their ground. Since developing the school’s own facilities this is no longer needed, and the school are in discussions about forming a partnership for a club to begin to use the school facilities Best prospect Kayla Wienekus (U14 batter and wicketkeeper) plays for Sussex agegroups and scored a century against MCC Women in

May 2025 at the age of 14 Brief history Records exist from 1889 and the Lords & Commons XI previously held an annual cricket fixture at the school Cultural cricketers Cecelia Robinson coached cricket at Roedean between 1949 and 1981 and toured Australia with the England women’s cricket team in 1963 What sets the school apart?

The school’s stunning location on the south coast Finest moment on the field Rottingdean was used extensively by Sussex Women’s Cricket when the squad was developing. More recently,

level, perhaps club and even county cricket, they love it and we can help them to further develop.

Turning girls who haven’t “But what’s really exciting, so much as held a cricket and I think what sets us apart, bat into enthusiasts is “the is the number of girls with little best thing” about Mike or no previous experience, Smethurst’s role as head of who then enjoy it so much cricket at Roedean School. that they choose to join a local While more pupils are club and begin to play cricket arriving in year seven with outside school as well. previous experience, linked to “I joined Roedean two the cricket replacing rounders Mike Smethurst months before lockdown in many primary schools, Head of performance and cricket began in 2020, so it was two others are novices who have years before we could run a yet to be captured by the sport. full cricket programme and for almost all our Thanks to the work of Smethurst, new girls that meant starting all over again. groups of girls are becoming immediately “I had to figure out how we wanted them captivated by cricket. to approach the game and therefore how we “That is the best thing about it, without any needed to coach them, both technically and in shadow of a doubt,” he said. “The girls that their mindset. come to us who are already playing at a good

watching 14-year-old Wienekus score her century v MCC Women. MCC won the game by just 3 runs Recent progress The school have increased the number of girls playing and the number of fixtures. Cricket staff coach on county pathways and several have completed the ECB Level 2 course Future plans A and B teams now exclusively play hardball cricket, sometimes as pairs. This has meant some changes to the fixture list as not all schools do this. The potential to open up the school facilities to a local club’s women and girls section

“We want them to be engaged enough to keep coming back and empowered enough to do things in their own way. If what they are doing will transfer, and continue to work in future years, that’s a pretty powerful combination.”

Smethurst has ring fenced softball cricket for all teams below A and B level, normalised the use of a leather ball at an early age and removed that fear factor for pupils.

“In the early days if someone accidentally bowled a beamer, you’d get the batter screaming and running out of the way,” he explained.

“Now, they just whack it, which shows how far they’ve come; they’re much braver and excited by the challenges of the game.

“We try and get them out of softball as soon as they’re ready.

“Softball is brilliant, but if you’re doing it for too long, it almost becomes a different sport, so those that are confident enough are moved onto hardball very quickly and that’s when you begin to see the real development.”

admissions@roedean.co.uk • 01723 667 500 • www.roedean.co.uk thecricketer.com | 141

Fearless on the field.

Bold in every moment.

Girls First: Empowered, Encouraged, Engaged At Roedean, girls embark on an education that is transformational and empowering, giving them the confidence to believe that nothing is beyond their reach. As one of the UK’s leading all girls’ day and boarding schools, Roedean offers a learning experience that is ambitious, inspirational and unapologetically bold.

Cricket has a long and proud tradition at Roedean and continues to flourish today. With expert coaching and dedicated player development, girls of all abilities are supported to achieve their potential, from firsttime players discovering the game to those representing their counties.

Roedean fields sixteen teams, offering opportunities for every girl to experience the joy of cricket. The game is more than a sport: it is a chance to be brave, to grow, and to carry a fearless spirit into life beyond school.

Discover Roedean.

Book your visit today.

Roedean- Cricketers Ad 2025-10 v2.indd 1

roedean.co.uk admissions@roedean.co.uk 01273 667500

14/10/2025 10:37

SHERBORNE GIRLS’ SCHOOL // SOUTH HAMPSTEAD HIGH SCHOOL

SHERBORNE GIRLS’ SCHOOL

(adaptive formats for new players).

A winter net programme year-round with strong links to local clubs What sets the school apart? The cricket programme is specifically tailored to girls. They have strength and conditioning for all players and

have purchased bats to allow for lighter weights but still with a solid middle. The clothing has been picked out by the girls moving away from white bottoms to tailored blue Finest moment on the field Getting to the third round of the T20 U18 cricket cup with most players in Year 10. Finishing 3rd in Dorset indoor county finals Recent progress The school have just had cricket nets fitted to the sports hall.

This has allowed for greater contact year-round as well as encouraging girls to play shots. Alongside this they have introduced 3 new members of staff within department with varied cricket knowledge, but built them up throughout the year to lead year groups What has changed in the last 10 years? In 5 years they have built a programme from scratch to 9-10 teams. With girls training year-round, playing in teams with the local boys’ school Future plans The school are identifying a section of space to develop and build 4 artificial batting cages to allow for more external netting to take place. Work with the local schools to develop a junior festival

Best prospects Dia Nair (Hampstead CC, Middlesex U15 and Essex U18). Alice W (North Middlesex, Middlesex U15 and U18).

Both played in the U18 GDST team against MCC and again this year. Four younger pupils play for Middlesex,

four girls played in the Trust team against MCC Brief history Softball cricket on the curriculum for many years, became a major sport three years ago. Started hardball two years ago, and now have a U13 and U15 hardball team, plus hardball clubs all year round Finest moment on the field U15 Trust group game against Notting Hill & Ealing Hill School featured an opening partnership of 136, and both got a fifty to take South Hampstead through to the Trust Finals. U15s were 2024 champions. Plus U15s reaching School Sports Magazine quarter-final 2024, 100-ball national cup last 16 and winning GDST Cricket Finals Recent progress Appointed a new head of cricket who coached the GDST U18s against MCC in 2023, 2024 and 2025 Future plans Next year, a U16 hardball team that will continue into sixth form.

More friendlies for hardball for U12s and U14s and more opportunities for new pupils to get involved in softball.

Continue developing the cricket through the junior and senior school.

A hardball team for each year group in the senior school

Bradford Road, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3QN Established 1899 Number of pupils 492 Head of cricket James Bell Teams – 9 Teams: 2 senior, U15, U14B, U13AB, U12AB, plus softball matches and indoor Fixtures 65-plus across the term across the 9 teams, three of those playing 8 softball fixtures. Most notable would be Ryde’s of the Isle of Wight Facilities 2 grass net cages set up with county dividers, 4 cricket pitches, 2 indoor net batting cages, 1 BOLA machine, 2 feed buddies, 2 Flicx wickets and a warm-up batting divider net Club/county affiliation Linked with the local club where several senior girls use their own free time to lead sessions for U8-U14s. They also play fixtures with lots of the junior state schools to encourage girls fixtures Best prospect Emma Phillipson – wicketkeeper/batter for Western Storm EPP and Somerset women. She

is currently playing for boys’ schools teams Brief history Cricket has been played at Sherborne Girls’ School since 2019.

Competing in T20 and 100-ball format fixtures as well as developing hardball introduction to cricket fixtures

SOUTH HAMPSTEAD HIGH SCHOOL 3 Maresfield Gardens, London NW3 5SS Established 1876 Number of pupils 965 Head of cricket Dominic Learoyd Professional Mubasher Hassan (Hampstead CC) Teams Junior School: Year 4AB, Year 5ABCD, Year 6ABCD. Senior School: Year 7AB, Year 8AB, softball teams and a hardball team competed in the School Sport Magazine competition.

Year 9AB; many pupils play in the U15 hardball team. Year 10: 2 softball teams and a hardball team Fixtures 48 hardball and softball fixtures this year. Into the U15 GSDT finals again this year against Putney, Croydon and Newcastle.

Great games against Wellington College and Kingston Grammar, with two competitive matches in the national cups Facilities Sports grounds are Hampstead CC, which has a fantastic cricket wicket. 3 nets. Sports hall for indoor cricket and a multi-use games

area on the school site Club/county affiliation Hampstead CC, with a junior cricket day led by the club last year. Hampstead coaches help the school programme and lots of senior pupils play for local teams like Hampstead and Primrose Hill

thecricketer.com | 143

10:37

TOP 20 GIRLS SCHOOLS

ST HELEN AND ST KATHARINE Faringdon Rd, Abingdon OX14 1BE Established 1938 Number of pupils 718 Head of cricket Sam Herbert Teams 15: U18A, U15AB, U14A, U13ABC, U12ABC, U11ABC, U10AB Fixtures 46 hardball across U12-18.

ST SWITHUN’S SCHOOL Alresford Rd, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1HA Established 1884 Number of pupils circa 800 Head of cricket Sara Heffernan Director of sport Jon Riley Professional Chris Wheeler Teams 1st XI, U15AB, U14AB, U13ABC, U12ABC Fixtures Friendlies including Lord Wandsworth, Godolphin, King Edward’s, Epsom, Downe House, Bedales and St Helen and St Katharine. Due to the success of the team in the national cups they have been playing more and more. Notable victories include wins over Bradfield, Lord Wandswoth, Taunton College, Portsmouth Grammar and Redmaids in the National Cup Facilities A three-lane outdoor cricket net was installed during 2024.

Every lunch it is full of girls of all abilities enjoying their cricket. The school also have two indoor nets and two artificial wickets on the front lawn. Cricket is everywhere at St Swithun’s as soon as you arrive on the 144 | thecricketer.com

ST HELEN AND ST KATHARINE // ST SWITHUN’S SCHOOL

38 softball (mostly U10 and U11, a few U12 and U13) Facilities Indoor net facilities, with local clubs Sunningwell, Steventon and Kingston Bagpuize CC used for cup fixtures Club/county affiliation Relationship with Oxfordshire Cricket hosting their Falcons programme to support state-school girls through their pathway system with weekly

sessions (SHSK staff help deliver). OX14 programme with local state schools, delivery from staff members in local primary schools.

Hosting events and minitournaments. Sponsorship at local clubs Best prospect Niamh Rogan (U15) Southern Vipers EPP and Oxfordshire Women. A top order batter and seam bowler, she has taken her game to new heights this year in U15 and U18 teams. The highest scorer for the last two seasons, with 444 runs in 18 games in 2025 alone Brief history Cricket has grown year on year since the pandemic and they have fully transitioned from rounders to cricket.

Hardball training weekly for Years 7 and up (with some Year 5s and 6s invited to hardball training too) along with weekly skill and fielding sessions.

Curriculum PE lessons in cricket have gone from strength to strength. 180 pupils taking part in cricket fixtures Finest moment on the field Prior to this year, double ECB Indoor Cricket

Nationals champions at U13 and U15 in 2023 Recent progress The growth of the 1:1 programme. Weekly extended after-school senior training. CPD sessions for school staff and connecting with local schools to upskill their staff Future plans The school have plans to install outdoor nets next year along with a grass square at Church Farm.

Continue to develop 1:1 and small group sessions introduced into Year 10s and up. One coach delivering 14 sessions per week; aiming to grow to 20-plus sessions per week to further support high performing and aspiring players. Grow participation in softball cricket at younger years through an engaging curriculum, guide them to multiple weekly cricket clubs and eventually to hardball cricket.

Increase staff knowledge through CPD sessions. Cement a high-quality hardball fixture programme against high performing schools in the area, ensuring range of appropriate challenge, range of fixtures and new opposition. Staff to deliver half-term programmes in local schools Tours Barbados 2027

front drive. The parents’ association have recently invested in a bowling machine. The pupils loved the experience Club/county affiliation Hampshire Best prospect Eliza Bristowe now part of the Vipers Academy in Hampshire and has been playing for Berkshire in 2025 on loan, with 50 on debut against Cornwall. A talented allrounder who scored a century in the first round of the County Cup. A further six players are part of Hampshire county age-group squads Brief history Cricket was introduced in 1912 with fixtures played since. West Indian cricketer Learie Constantine visited the school in the 1930s during a tour to coach some pupils. In recent years the school qualified for the ECB Indoor Schools competition national finals twice, finishing as runners-up in 2019 Cultural cricketers Lucia Kendall played

England representative cricket before going on to sign a professional football contract with Southampton FC. She now regularly plays for England U23s Finest moment on the field 2025 was an exceptional season in cup competitions. U13 T20 National finalists, U15 T20 National quarter finalists, U13 T20 County finalists, T20 County

finalists, U15 indoor county finalists, U13 indoor county finalists Recent progress Via work with the Hampshire Cricket Board they were delighted to welcome the Hampshire State Jets for a game at St Swithun’s – a collection of the best state school cricketers in the county Future plans This summer the school will break ground on a new indoor sports arena. This will include space for indoor cricket matches

THE MARY ERSKINE SCHOOL // WIMBLEDON HIGH SCHOOL

THE MARY ERSKINE SCHOOL Ravelston Dykes Road, Edinburgh, EH4 3NT Established 1694 Number of pupils 756 Head of cricket Caroline Heron Professional Hannah Short Teams U10, U11AB, U12ABC, U13ABC, U14AB, U15, U18 Future plans To develop hardball and softball cricket. Hardball continues to grow at the school with winter nets for the 1st XI and hardball training being offered from U13 onwards. The fixture list for hardball has increased with hardball fixtures for the U13A and U14 A and B teams.

Holding winter nets for all groups from U12 onwards. Softball continues to grow with increased participation from all year groups. To increase participation across club and school

teams; and to support community initiatives in local primary schools Club/county affiliations Six senior girls have delivered cricket sessions to Flora Stevensons Primary School every Monday from April until June alongside coaches from Stewart Melville CC. For the first time the primary school entered the U12 MES Cricket Festival Best prospects Emily Duguid (U18s – She is playing for Stewart Melville Royals in the Premier League, East U18 and is striving for selection for Scotland U17s) Cricketers of note Katherine Fraser (former Scotland U19 captain and current international) Finest moment on the field The U11 girls winning the Scotland U12 softball tournament Recent progress The growing interest in hardball within senior girls – numbers tripling from last year Tours U18 Scottish Cup final; U15s to Durham May 2026

WIMBLEDON HIGH SCHOOL Mansel Rd, London SW19 4AB Established 1880 Number of pupils 1075 Head of cricket Dan Creasey Teams 47 teams from U8 to 1st XI Fixtures Hardball: 78 (the majority of secondary school fixtures, A-C teams). Year 6A also played hardball.

Softball: 50 at Year 3-5 and D-H teams in the senior school Facilities 4 indoor full-length nets, 3 outside nets. Use of Raynes Park 3 turf squares during the season, owned

by Wimbledon CC. Cup matches at Wimbledon CC’s main ground opposite centre court at the AllEngland Lawn Tennis Club. Matches are streamed for parents who can’t attend cup matches Club/county affiliation Surrey Best prospects Alicia Adams U16, is on the Surrey EPP programme. A tall, strong opening bowler who bowls a heavy ball and is an aggressive middle order batter. Caitlin Harris U14 Surrey wicketkeeper and aggressive top order batter. She is superb behind the stumps Brief history The school moved from rounders to cricket in 2017 and in recent years has significantly expanded its cricket offering. The facilities include cricket nets, indoor nets and a sports ground that was formerly the site of the All-England

Club, providing ample space for practice and matches. Cricket is now integrated into the curriculum for both junior and senior pupils, with opportunities ranging from recreational play to competitive fixtures. Due to the growth of cricket, in April 2024 the school recruited its first head of cricket. The school participates in various competitions and has seen its teams play at prestigious venues, reflecting the programme’s growth and success Finest moment on the field Reaching the Surrey U14 semi-final.

Finished third overall in the Surrey schools indoor competition Recent progress The volume of pupils playing hardball cricket in Years 7, 8 and 9: 30–40 pupils in each year are regularly training and competing in hardball cricket, with over 100 playing hardball across Years 7 to 10. They have actively encouraged all students to transition to hardball through introductory sessions and have invested significantly in suitable hardball equipment. Pupils have responded in turn and are now joining cricket clubs away from school.

Teachers are up-skilling each week Future plans Install 4 more temporary lanes at the sports ground. Since few schools offer C team-level girls’ hardball cricket, Wimbledon HS are actively seeking fixtures with schools further afield to ensure regular match opportunities for all teams Tours Dubai 2026 thecricketer.com | 145

TOP 50

PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

If I hadn’t been a journalist, I would have tried to be a teacher… English and cricket. And it strikes me that being a primary school one must be rewarding, especially. Last year I wrote about my cricket master from the ages of 10 to 12, Mr Riley.

We were like sponges, soaking up knowledge, learning new things.

For instance, I used to point my index finger down the splice of the bat. He was horrified – “You’ll break your finger, Huw!” In our lunch break and after-school games of pairs’ cricket, and matches, it was a pure voyage of discovery.

One that continued that evening when we came back from school just in time to catch the end of the Test match day, Texaco Trophy ODI, or county game on the BBC. I thought the ball had to be hitting middle to win an lbw verdict (that maybe was the case with the late, great

Timeless foundations.

Contemporary world.

Dickie Bird). “Don’t be daft, Huw, there are three stumps, as long as you hit one of them.”

Three fielders behind square on the legside? That was a no! The umpire’s no-ball shout certainly woke us up.

Big front-foot no-balls, they were a new thing.

Roll your wrists for the cut? That’s saved me over the years.

How to put pad buckle straps on the inside, so they don’t catch the edge, and fool the umpire.

How to swing the ball, how to spin it, long-barrier stops, forward defence, what a time to be alive. Great days.

As I sat through double maths, my spirits perked up when I heard a lawnmower start up. The square would soon be ready.

I envy all the people in this prep-school guide, teachers and pupils, boys and girls… life doesn’t get any better.

Make the most of it!

Huw Turbervill

In a fast-changing world, it’s essential to evolve. But it’s also important to hold fast to what matters.

Caldicott delivers a first-class educational experience for boys that is built on timeless foundations, while fitting the demands of the modern world.

Our Elite Sports Pathway with expert coaching, bespoke training programmes, and lifestyle and wellbeing advice, awaits sports scholars at the College.

An education very much of its time and unmistakably Caldicott in its nature.

Caldicott Preparatory School for Boys

Come and look a little deeper.

Please contact Lisa Botwright, Director of Admissions

+44 (0) 1753 649 301 admissions@caldicott.com www.caldicott.com

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12/09/2025 14:08

AKS LYTHAM PREP // ALDRO

AKS LYTHAM PREP Clifton Drive South, Lytham FY8 1DT

Liam Castellas (left) director of cricket and Antony Wilson (right) prep school cricket lead

Established 1896 Number of pupils 200 (800 with senior) Head of cricket Liam Castellas Teams 29 Boys U9, U10AB, U11AB, U12AB, U13AB, U14AB, U15AB, U17, 2nd XI, 1st XI; Girls U9, U10, U11AB, U12, U13, U14, U15, U17, 1st XI. Headmaster’s XI, Staff XI, OAKS XI Fixtures About 25 annually. All AJIS cups and host Wyre & Fylde Cups.

Also host striking and fielding festivals at Year 3 & 4 for all local schools in conjunction with Lancashire Cricket Foundation. Annual fixtures include Bolton School, Stonyhurst, Sedbergh School and Cheadle Hulme School.

Although it is a small prep school, it regularly punches above its weight.

All prep school students play cricket via the PE curriculum. In addition, 100 students (mostly KS2) represent the school in fixtures and tournaments

Facilities 2 x grass pitches adjacent to each other, 2 x Flicx pitches, 2 x indoor sports halls with Uni-Turf flooring – one with 5 indoor lanes, the other with 2; 4 x outdoor astro lanes, 3 x BOLA bowling machines, sightscreens, electronic scoreboard and historic pavilion built over a century ago which houses a functioning café Brief history AKS’s cricket legacy goes back to 1896, with historic buildings surrounding two adjacent pitches hosting festivals and tournaments. The school plays a pivotal role in local cricket, fostering community growth in the North-West.

Club/county affiliations Strong partnership with local cricket clubs, especially St Annes CC (Northern Premier League) and Lytham CC (Liverpool & District CC), inviting them in and leading sessions at

ALDRO

Brief history Before Hall Place became Aldro school, Sir Edgar Horne used to stage cricket matches on what is now the 1st XI square. One of his friends was JM Barrie, who wrote Peter Pan and lived at Tilford.

His team played at Shackleford at least five times and many famous writers turned out for them. Arthur Conan Doyle, AA Milne and many others all played on their pitch Finest moment on the field Surrey Cup U11 & U13 winners in past 10 years Recent progress The introduction of girls’ cricket, now in its fourth year: 50 per cent of girls are playing hardball cricket.

Over 50 per cent of pupils play club cricket.

The school uses local club facilities Future plans Building a bay of six nets.

Local club partnership to build nets and have access

Lombard Street, Godalming, Surrey GU8 6AS Number of pupils 220 Director of sport Guy Drayton Teams 15 boys, 8 girls Fixtures 1st XI play 15 matches. Derby match is against Cranleigh Prep.

Also notable fixtures against Twyford and Ludgrove Facilities 6 bays of outdoor nets artificial, 3 bays of indoor nets, 2 turf squares, 2 Flicx wickets. The school also plays at four clubs Club/county affiliation Guildford CC, Churt & Hindhead CC, Chiddingfold CC Best prospects Henry Evans (1st XI captain, wicketkeeper/opening bat, Hampshire Under14s); Monty Plaistowe (U11, opening bowler, No.4 bat, Surrey U11s)

the school’s facilities for their junior teams, and providing Coach Education to community coaches.

Strong partnership with Lancashire CCC, often hosting county boys’ and girls’ events. AKS also host tournaments on adjacent pitches.

AKS Lytham also hosts the ‘Lancashire Way’ programme run by Lancashire Cricket Foundation, and is also an MCC Foundation Hub, demonstrating the desire to grow cricket ‘beyond the boundary’ of the AKS community Best prospect Isaac Wallwork, Year 6. Secured selection in the Northern Premier League representative team off the back of exceptional performances for AKS and Lytham CC. A hard-hitting batter and accurate bowler, he is working hard with his school and Lancashire pathway coaches to go to the next level Professional cricketers produced

Tom Graveney, Richard Halsall, Taylor Cornall Cultural cricketers Dr Frank Duckworth MBE (creator of the Duckworth-Lewis method), Jimmy Armfield (England football captain), Michael Smith (Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry), Sir William Lyons (founder of Jaguar cars) Finest moment on the field Winning the recent U11 Regional Tournament Recent progress Appointment of a prep school cricket lead, winning trophies at regional level. Recent investments in cutting-edge equipment and pavilion restorations What sets the school apart?

Quality of coaching. Community involvement – offering facilities/ tournaments to help grow the game ‘beyond the boundary’ of the AKS community Future plans Hosting festivals for local state schools Tour April 2027

www.akslytham.com admissions@akslytham.com 01253 784101

thecricketer.com | 147

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

AYSGARTH SCHOOL Bedale, North Yorkshire DL8 1TF Established 1877 Number of pupils 220 Head of cricket James Alderson Professional Paul Grayson (Yorkshire, Essex) Teams Every child is encouraged to represent the school at all ages and abilities from pre-prep through to U13A. Last season fixtures for 32 teams: Boys U13ABC; U12AB; U11ABC; U10ABC; U9A; Girls U13A, U12A, U11A, U9A. Mixed U13ABCD; U11ABC; U10ABC; U9ABCD; U8ABC Fixtures Close to 200 played across all age groups and abilities against some of the most prestigious public and state schools in the north of England and further afield. As well as school matches, regularly host fixtures against local clubs such as Richmondshire CC, Ripon CC and Northallerton CC. The Year 8 pupils in their final term tour Oxfordshire, where they have most recently played the Dragon, Caldicott and Summer Fields schools, before playing Warwick School on the return leg. The Bunbury Cup and IAPS Cup. The school hosts the Yorkshire Round and the North of England rounds of the ESCA 8-a-side U11 national competition, and teams regularly go to the final and qualify for the latter rounds.

Facilities 4 indoor nets, 7 outdoor grass nets, 5 outdoor pitches and squares. The school has a state-ofthe-art sports hall, one of the best cricket training facilities between 148 | thecricketer.com

Headingley and Chester-le-Street.

The space boasts four full-length nets, a range of bowling machines and a multipurpose floor Club/county affiliation In 2024, the Aysgarth community took part in a sponsored walk and raised around £10,000 for Yorkshire Vikings Visually Impaired Cricket Club to help them to continue empowering individuals like the school’s pupil, Hugo, to thrive in cricket despite visual impairment Best prospect Daniel Bramma, an accomplished allrounder on Yorkshire’s books Brief history Cricket has been central to Aysgarth since its founding in 1877. Headmaster Frank Joy (1919– 1936) championed the game, even funding a pavilion from tuck-shop profits. The Jubilee Pavilion, opened in 1927, remains a proud symbol of sporting tradition. Aysgarth’s unique version of cricket, ‘COW’, played on concrete, values bold play over defence – with hitting a ‘Garden’ (clearing the wall) the ultimate achievement Cultural cricketers Matthew Pinsent, Jonathan Ruffer, Robert Swan Finest moment on the field U13 team competed in the David English Bunbury Cup where they reached the semi-final of the North England group Recent progress The strides made in developing girls’ cricket over the past year Future plans After the announcement of Aysgarth’s upcoming merger with Rugby School, lots of improvements to the cricket facilities over the coming months

AYSGARTH SCHOOL // BEDE’S PREP SCHOOL

BEDE’S PREP SCHOOL Duke’s Drive, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN20 7XL Head of cricket Alan Wells Professional Jamie Hall Teams 16 (Boys 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th), U12A, U11AB, U10AB, Girls U13ABC, Girls U12, 2 x U11, 2 x U9) Fixtures Indoor school with 4 nets, astro pitch, 3 grass pitches and full access to all senior school facilities Club/county affiliation Strong links with Sussex CCC, Eastbourne, Hailsham and Preston Nomads Best prospect Lolly Burgess, a Year 7 allrounder and legspinner who represents a number of Bede’s girls teams as well as playing in boys’ teams. Lolly is an exciting prospect Professional cricketers produced Luke Wells (Lancashire, Sussex), Ali Orr (Hampshire, Sussex), Archie Lenham (Sussex), Ollie Rayner (Sussex and Middlesex), Callum Jackson (Kent, Sussex, England U19), Sarah Taylor (England and Sussex, fastest male or female to earn their first cap in all three formats of international cricket), Mary Taylor (Sussex, Southern Vipers, Southern Brave), Ariana Dowse (Berkshire, previously Sussex and Hampshire)

Brief history Bede’s Prep was the first to go co-ed and has a rich history of championing parity of offer within sport. Bede’s Prep has nurtured young talent as demonstrated by its alumni who have forged successful playing careers. Continuity of coaching and a strong pathway through to Bede’s Senior School has always been the bedrock of the cricket offer at Bede’s Prep Cultural cricketers Christopher Martin-Jenkins, Peter Cook Finest moment on the field Bede’s Prep won the national championships in multiple years and was one of the first prep schools to introduce a full girls’ progamme. Bede’s Prep has been undefeated as county champions for eight years running at U12 level in girls and boys Recent progress In recent years Bede’s Prep has moved towards use of hard balls in coaching for girls’ teams. It was also one of the first schools to move away from rounders in part to increase the focus on its girls’ cricket programme.

Bede’s Prep reached the IAPS National Finals this summer, which featured four teams, winning their semi-final vs Millfield, making it to the final Future plans Two new ECBapproved wickets and pitches have been approved for development

BEDFORD PREP SCHOOL // BISHOP’S STORTFORD COLLEGE PREP SCHOOL

BEDFORD PREP SCHOOL De Parys Avenue, Bedford, Bedfordshire MK40 2TU Established 1552 Number of pupils 350 Director of cricket Gary Steer Professionals Tom Brett and Charlie Thurston Teams 26 Fixtures 200 Facilities 2 1st XI grass nets, 19 artificial nets, 6 indoor lanes,

9 cricket grounds Club/county affiliations Official partnership with Northamptonshire CCC and Bedford CC Best prospects Aveer Nagpal (U11), Freddie Gibbs, Samarth Serish and Ben Brading (all U13) Professional cricketers James Kettleborough (England U19 captain, Northamptonshire), Christian Davis (England U18, Northants, Glamorgan, Derbyshire), Charlie Thurston (England U19, Northants), Emilio Gay (Northants,

Durham, Italy, England Lions), Harry Gouldstone (Northants) Brief history Bedford School CC has a rich history dating back to the 18th century. The first recorded match took place on May 24 1787, against a team from Northampton.

The school’s first cricket club was formed in the 1820s, with matches played against other local schools and clubs. In 1844 Bedford School CC was officially established, with the first recorded match against Oakham School on July 14 1844, mobile net cages, 2 indoor nets plus 10 shared training/match pitches Club/county affiliation Hertfordshire CCC use the main school square for 1-day and 2-day representative matches; Bishop’s Stortford CC. Boys and Girls play for Hertfordshire and Essex at various age-group levels. Luke Humphrey of Herts & Essex Cricket Centre (HECC and Old Stortfordian) regularly holds training camps in the holidays and coaching sessions throughout the

BISHOP’S STORTFORD COLLEGE PREP SCHOOL

coach), Megan Betteridge (head of girls’ cricket) Teams 50 – Boys: U13ABCDEF; U12ABCDEF; U11ABCD; U10ABCD; School House, Maze Green Road, U9ABCD. Girls: U13ABCDEF; Bishop’s Stortford CM23 2PQ U11ABCD; U10ABCD; U9ABC; plus other Established 1868 age-group teams for boys Number of pupils 640 and girls playing internal Head of boys’ cricket matches Dave Hughes Fixtures 288. Most notable Professionals Ben fixture block is against Twohig (England U19s, Bedford School Worcestershire CCC, Facilities 10 main squares, Current Bishop’s Stortford Dave Hughes Head of boys’ cricket 16 artificial outdoor nets, 2 CC vice-captain and

Bedford School CC continues to thrive, with a strong focus on developing young cricketers and competing at a high level. The club has produced several players who have gone on to play first-class and minor county cricket What sets the school apart? The quality of the cricket programme i.e. number of group and 1:1 sessions and three full time members of cricket staff. Boys receive 2 sessions of cricket per week in the autumn term, in spring this goes up to 5 sessions per week with summer 4 sessions per week plus fixtures. This is in addition to the 1:1/1:2 programme with boys in PE Finest moments on the field Bedford Prep School have won the U13 IAPS competition several times Cricketing progress Three full-time cricket staff now. As a result, the school is able to offer more 1-on-1 and 1-to-2 sessions, more squad sessions and more skill sessions.

Future plans The school are looking to renovate the existing cricket squares and develop two new cricket squares this summer, ready for next season.

Tours Cape Town in February 2025 year. He has been working across the age-groups for boys and girls and works with the elite cricketers in the winter programme. John Childs, head scout of the Essex CCC academy, attends school fixtures Best prospects Ankhan Aswani; Ryan Bloemink (both Year 8 in 2024/25), plays for Essex Professional cricketers produced AG (Graham) Doggart (Middlesex and MCC Committee) Charles (CH) Titchmarsh played for MCC against New Zealand (1922/23) and West Indies (1923) Cultural cricketers Sir Stephen Lander, former director-general of MI5; Andy Peebles (BBC Radio 1/Top of the Pops) 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 Recent progress The progress and speed of uptake of girls’ cricket Future plans To develop and enhance already strong links with Essex CCC Tours Cape Town 2027 and 2029 thecricketer.com | 149

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

BLUNDELL’S PREPARATORY SCHOOL // BRENTWOOD PREPARATORY SCHOOL

BRENTWOOD PREPARATORY SCHOOL Middleton Hall Lane, Brentwood, Essex CM15 8EE

BLUNDELL’S PREPARATORY SCHOOL Blundells Rd, Tiverton EX16 4NA Number of pupils 246 Head of cricket Simon Swain Professional Dean Headley (Kent, Middlesex, England) Teams 16 from Year 3 to 6 for both boys and girls Fixtures 10 weeks in the term where everybody will play in every week, Year 3 to 6 boys and girls. About 100 matches, including Plymouth College, Mount Kelly, Exeter School, West Buckland, Taunton and Millfield Facilities Three grass squares with a new artificial incorporated for bad weather maintained by the expert grounds staff who also look after the senior school site. The prep school has full access to the

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senior school sports hall with 5 indoor nets, 4 new all-weather nets fully enclosed, and 9 grass nets alongside 3 new astro pitches and two senior squares of a high standard Brief history Cricket has been part of the PE curriculum since its earliest years, with a structured fixtures programme across multiple age groups Finest moment on the field Deciding that cricket was going to be the summer sport for both girls and boys Recent progress There are many children who go on to local clubs after school including All Stars showing how much the children enjoy cricket Future plans The pre-prep will have specialist coaching and each year there is refinement and additions made to enhance the programme delivered to all. Staff have CPD opportunities weekly with the director of cricket which will enhance the delivery of the game. A new astro wicket has helped keep games on. The school regularly has primary schools visit to use any of the facilities to encourage the growth of the game and is closely connected to local clubs in the area

Established 1892 Number of pupils 461 Master in charge Les Wingrove Professional Jaik Mickleburgh (Essex CCC) Master in charge Les Wingrove Head of cricket Paul Davidge Teams Boys & Girls (or mixed) U11ABCD, U10ABCD, U9ABCDEFG, U8ABCDEFG. Option for further teams of mixed ability and gender, especially in younger age groups (six and eight a side) Fixtures 85 in 2025. Also participated in Eastern region IAPS festivals (both genders) attending boys’ festivals at Orwell Park and Bancroft’s and the U11 county cup Facilities Access to a local indoor centre with additional three nets during the winter months. Outdoor facility with 6 nets as well as two roll-on nets, based on the main and prep school site. Installation of a new 4-lane batting cage on the prep site was completed in April. The school has 3 hardball pitches over 3 sites with 4 junior softball pitches and 2 astro-based pitches and access to an astro turf for terrier formatted games, practices. Through the partnership with Brentwood CC, access to an additional 2 outdoor nets and an extra senior pitch during the week Best prospect Elliott Peck, aged 9. Fine all-rounder who has been identified by the county

age-group pathway Professional cricketers produced David Acfield, Kishen Velani, Robin Das (all Essex CCC), Rishi Patel (Leicestershire CCC) Brief history Brentwood Prep School has a strong cricketing history, with many pupils progressing on to the senior school and providing the backbone to teams in various age groups who compete in the County and Mid-Essex cups from U11 to 1st XI. The girls’ participation stemming from the Prep, has given greater empathies to a pathway into the senior school. Brentwood has been successful over the years at all levels with many teams winning county cups and reaching the latter stages of the national competitions, with good representation in the county’s development programme, both boys and girls Cultural cricketers Frank Lampard, Olly Lee, Elliott Lee (football) and Jack Straw MP Recent progress Installation of 4-lane state of the art batting cages, which enhances the provision of coaching, one-to-one and group development. This also provides additional opportunities for afterschool development across both genders with employment of ECB Level 3 coaches Future plans Implementing the introduction of cricket as the primary sport for girls in the summer term, both in KS1 and KS2. The school has seen growth in teams, winter nets participation, hardball fixtures and in 2024 its first IAPS girls’ competition winners

BRIGHTON COLLEGE PREP SCHOOL

BRIGHTON COLLEGE PREP SCHOOL Eastern Road, Brighton, BN2 5JJ Established 1845 Number of pupils 433 Director of sport (prep) Ed Hopkins Professionals Mark Davis (Sussex CCC) and Joe Barnett Teams 44 in total – 23 boys, 21 girls from U8–U13 Fixtures 140 per season. The most prestigious matches are against Westbourne House, Cumnor House and Hurstpierpoint College.

The school also enters IAPS competitions for U11, U13 boys and girls, as well as county cups for the U13s and U12s Facilities The use of 3 grass nets, 10 outdoor astro nets, 3 indoor nets in the Cricket School at the college’s school of science and sport. The Home

MEET THE DIRECTOR OF SPORT (PREP)

Ground has 2 hybrid grass wickets, and 1 grass and 1 astro wicket at the Jubilee Ground. There are also 2 grass wickets at East Brighton Park as well as the facilities at St Peter’s CC, which include 2 grass, 1 astro wicket and a host of softball pitches Club/county affiliation St Peter’s CC Best prospect Rufus Dobson Copping (allrounder on Sussex pathway) Professional cricketers produced Matt Prior, Matt Machan, Carl Hopkinson, Joe Gatting, Jordan Rollins, Michael Thornley, Malcolm Waller, Bazid Khan, Neil Lenham, Clare Connor CBE, Holly Colvin, Sarah Taylor, Laura Marsh, Freya Davies Brief history Cricket is the core 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 the men’s game Cultural cricketers Sammy Woods (Test cricket for England and Australia, and rugby union for England 13 times) Finest moment on the

field Producing pupils who continue to play the game after leaving at their appropriate level, whether grassroots to the national team. Current U13 girls reaching County Cup finals, IAPS U13 Cup quarter-finalists. Current U11 boys 3rd place at IAPS Recent progress Girls’ cricket further embedded as a core sport.

Consolidation of the progressive programme from Year 1 through to Year 8. The increase in pupils engaged in the All Stars and Dynamos programmes at

and we’re all about engaging our pupils with cricket, both inside and outside of the When it comes to engaging school.” younger children in cricket, it With access to facilities always helps to inject a sense like the refurbished Home of fun.

Ground, as well as visits to But, at Brighton College the County Ground at Hove Prep, that philosophy is available, there’s plenty of also yielding results at elite level cricket to inspire county level when it comes Hopkins’ young charges. to performance.

Director of sport (prep) Ed Hopkins But there’s a desire to “The two things go side keep children of all abilities by side really,” explains interested in cricket through partnerships with director of sport (prep), Ed Hopkins who, as the clubs, including St Peter’s CC. father of an eight-year-old son, knows plenty The school has now transitioned to Year 6 about engaging the interests of the children being its top year group, rather than Year 8, he teaches. which has only afforded more opportunity for “We’ve had a strong number of nominations engagement right from nursery and pre-prep for Sussex pathways groups. school, where teachers are encouraged to “As soon as you develop a culture, it’s develop hand-eye coordination using bats about building momentum and keeping and balls. children engaged.

Although Brighton College is also celebrated “We feel that progression has gone really well

their local clubs and also the number of pupils that have been selected into the Sussex Pathway. Winter cricket programme saw 25-plus U12/13 pupils training over the winter. Matches being played on the Home Ground, a wonderful setting for cricket.

Future plans Holiday Camp cricket days using the college facilities.

Winter training for younger age groups. Working with local primary schools to host a softball pairs festival for Year 3 and 4

for its rugby success, a key focus remains on hockey due to the transferrable skills that can help to develop young cricketers.

Parents are also involved, with Hopkins and his team, including coach George Stewart, advising them on talent they may not even realise their children possess.

Among the beneficiaries of the programme is 10-year-old Rufus Dobson Copping, an allrounder with a shock of blond hair who was playing in the under-13 side while still in Year 5.

There’s also enjoyable competition at House level, where mixed tournaments are commonplace.

“Brighton College has always had a really strong girls’ programme,” adds Hopkins.

“It’s very balanced and we’re keen to make sure the same opportunities are there for both the boys and the girls.

“Being a co-education school, we’re really lucky that the boys and girls can bounce off each other and have some fun in these House competitions.”

brightoncollege.org.uk • prepadmissions@brightoncollege.net • +44 (0)1273 704 210 thecricketer.com | 151

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

CALDICOTT SCHOOL // CARGILFIELD

CARGILFIELD CALDICOTT SCHOOL

Lord’s to Brisbane for the Ashes in 2010/11, writing the book Cycling to the Ashes. Dennis Silk and Hubert Crown Lane, Farnham Royal, Doggart were also regulars on the Buckinghamshire SL2 3SL boundary. Carlos Brathwaite trained at Caldicott Established 1904 Recent progress Over the Number of pupils 262 past 12 months embedding Head of cricket a strong, progressive John Currie cricketing culture across all Teams 24 – seniors (U12 year groups. The teaching & U13): 8 – U11x4, U10x5, staff have been upskilled U9x4, U8x3 through targeted CPD Fixtures Last summer John Currie sessions, enabling more 205 including 13 blocks Head of cricket of them to confidently against other schools. coach cricket to a high standard. As There are also internal fixtures and a result, there has been a marked a competitive house competition. improvement in the quality of The highlight of the season is the coaching across the board, increased final of the Caldicott Premier League, pupil engagement, and strong made up of all U12 & U13 boys in the performances from teams at all levels 6th–8th XIs What sets the school apart?

Facilities 6 outdoor nets, 4 indoor Producing excellent cricketers, but nets, 2 squares, 4 artificial pitches, 2 more importantly gentlemen who outfield pitches, astroturf know how to win and lose with dignity Best prospect Captain Rory Hughes and respect for the (opening bat, right-arm offie); he opposition has played for the 1st Future plans XI since year 6, Building the scoring 1,442 new pavilion. runs at 42 Beaconsfield CC Professional juniors play on the cricketers school’s open produced morning against Andrew year 3 and 4 Strauss, Fabian boys, which Cowdrey, Jack proves to be a Rogers, Alex great morning Shoff (USA U19), getting boys Mark Dickson involved in the local Cultural community. cricketers Sir Tours South Africa Tom Stoppard in February 2025. played on main Touring Cape Town field when son every two years, facing Ed was skipper; top schools including Oli Broom (old SACS and Bishops Prep boy) cycled from 152 | thecricketer.com

45 Gamekeeper’s Road, Cramond, Edinburgh, Scotland EH4 6HU Established 1873 Number of pupils 300 Professional A southern hemisphere pro from Royal Corstorphine CC every year, then Ewan Harrison, coach from Heriot’s School, takes winter nets Master in charge David Walker Teams U13 and U12 boys and girls; 4 teams at U11, sometimes playing mixed fixtures, and 3 at U9, again mixed Fixtures 1st XI boys play 12, and also take part in a start-of-season festival with Merchiston, Sedbergh and Belhaven, plus the Merchiston Super 8s involving other schools and clubs, and the Glenalmond 6-a-side festival which Cargilfield has won for the last three years. There is a close rivalry with Merchiston and Sedbergh.

U11 boys and mixed teams play 10 at ABCD levels Facilities 2 grass squares. A full-size astroturf pitch on which can be played 2 softball games at the same time, and a smaller astro pitch for junior matches and training. A 4-lane indoor net facility which is used 12 months a year. Winter programme for all age groups starts from August to

March. Nets have been updated and new lighting has been installed. The Edinburgh Cricket Academy uses the indoor facilities and provides coaches to help during the winter. A new fourlane all-weather outdoor net facility built by Durant Cricket allows all age groups to practise outdoors through the summer to October Club/county affiliation The school provides girls to play in the Royal Corstorphine women’s league team.

Boys and girls play club cricket at the Grange CC in Edinburgh. Girls play in the Grange CC 1st XI women’s team in adult league cricket Best prospects Isabella Armstrong, now at Fettes College, played for Scotland A; Rory Grant, now at Rugby School, played for Scotland U19s in World Cup qualifiers Professional cricketers produced Harry Armstrong and Grant played for Scotland in the last U19 World Cup in South Africa; Chris Sole, current Scotland international who has played for Glamorgan; Tom Sole played for Northants and Scotland Brief history Cargilfield has played cricket since the school’s foundation in 1873. It has superb indoor and outdoor facilities. Since Covid-19, girls’ cricket has taken off throughout the year, competing in the Cricket Scotland U15 Schools’ Cup Cultural cricketers David Sole (Scotland rugby union) Finest moment on the field Having the first girls’ hardball matches Recent progress The girls’ programme now operates from U9 to U13, with lots of girls progressing to hard-ball cricket Future plans All outdoor and indoor facilities to be upgraded

CLAYESMORE PREP // COTHILL HOUSE

CLAYESMORE PREP

additional 6 grass nets and 4 indoor nets Club/county affiliation Dorset CC, Shroton CC, Blandford CC and Iwerne CC Best prospects Tyler Bertie Hopkin Douglas, Henry Chapman, Head of boys’ games Max Cardozo, Bertie Bagnall, Philippa Shaw, Eloise Close,

Rachel McCarthy, Byron Bolton, Charlie Falck and Arthur Guttridge Professional cricketers Lewis McManus (Hampshire, Northamptonshire), Jamie Price, Ollie York (both Dorset CCC) Brief history Cricket was first played at the original school site at Charlton Marshall in the summer of 1937 under the founding headmaster

RAL Everett. In the 1980s, a prep school cricketer made the international headlines for taking 10 wickets in a match for only three runs.

In more recent times, Clayesmore have been county champions in at least one age group for the last six years, including the U13s who have been champions five times across different formats and the U11s who have won twice Cultural cricketers Tony Hart (artist and TV presenter) and Brian Epstein (The Beatles’ manager) Finest moment on the field In 2020 the U12 boys claimed the Dorset County Cup in a thrilling final Recent progress The formal move to totally mixed cricket for all age groups and introducing cricket to foreign students. Expanding the community engagement scheme with masterclasses being delivered to local primary and prep schools from the school’s county coaches.

Extending the holiday programmes.

The sports hall is being revamped Tours Previous trip to Sri Lanka for 1st XI, Lanzarote sports training camp in December 2022, and provisionally looking at a tour in 2026

who use the school’s sports centre for their winter pathway training. Schools Cothill, Oxfordshire also offer it to local state OX13 6JL schools who come and use the facility free of charge Established 1870 Best prospects Xander Number of pupils 170 Ross Martin Mudd and Freddie Phillips.

Director of sport Head of cricket Both played for the U11A Rory Griffiths team this year but also represented Head of cricket Ross Martin the 1st XI on a couple of occasions.

Teams 15 from U8–U13 Mudd scored four fifties this year.

Fixtures Boys played more than Freddie is a fast bowler who has taken 170 matches last summer. It’s a 20 wickets. They are both involved in competitive circuit with historic the Oxfordshire pathway rivalries, including Ludgrove and Professional cricketers produced Summer Fields. Also matches versus Gloucestershire 1st XI player, Archie Oxfordshire Bulls, who are made up Bailey. He was at Cothill from of talented state-schooled players 2014–2019, captaining the 1st XI in his Facilities 8 hard year-round nets last year and 8 grass nets during the summer term that are moved on rotation every Brief history Cricket has been an integral part of Cothill life since their quarter of the summer term. Seven pitches including 4 protected squares. founding in 1870. With the school’s extensive and beautiful pitches, and Pitches well-kept by groundsmen old-fashioned thatched pavilion Joe Green and Pete England are containing names of 1st XI players renowned among the best prepgoing back to 1895, the summer term school wickets on the circuit. New sees youngsters in whites dotted all sports centre with 4 full-length lanes over the grounds almost every day for indoor training over winter of the week. The playground comes Club/county affiliation New alive with ‘Yard Cricket’, with the first partnership with Oxfordshire Cricket

matches springing up in break times during March as the pupils get excited for the season around the corner Cultural cricketers Visits in recent years from Sir Garry Sobers, Alastair Cook and Mark Ramprakash who have all netted and let the boys bowl at them, as well as speaking to them about their careers Finest moment on the field The

Fathers v Sons annual match where the 1st XI get the chance to embarrass their fathers: a fun-filled and rewarding end to the season Recent progress One of the school’s new coaches has just taken the ECB core coaching course, which is a first for the school Future plans Keep building on ties with the local community

Iwerne Minster, Blandford Forum, Dorset DT11 8LL

Established 1986 Number of pupils 139 Head of boys’ games Bertie Hopkin Professional Dan Conway Teams All from U8s to U13s are mixed with hardball and softball depending on ability. Hardball U13AB, U12A, U11AB, U10A. Softball U13AB, U12AB, U11A, U10A U9A U8A Fixtures About 120 last season, including Dorset county matches for U11s and U13s. Most notable fixtures are against local rivals Port Regis and Sandroyd, however the annual Year 8 vs Parents match is perhaps the most keenly contested Facilities 4 permanently maintained squares, with 5 other wickets prepared during the summer term on the extensive school sports fields, allowing 7 home fixtures on a match day. In addition, a new 8-lane ECB‑standard net complex with 4 astroturf and 4 grass nets, and an

COTHILL HOUSE

thecricketer.com | 153

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

COTTESMORE SCHOOL // CRANMORE SCHOOL

COTTESMORE SCHOOL

and allrounder who plays for Middlesex

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 Famous figures who have played at the school Monty Panesar came to Cottesmore in 2019 to lead a session Finest moment on the field Many overseas tours over the past 25 years, including Barbados, South Africa and the UAE. A defining moment was beating the Zayed Academy at the Zayed Stadium (Abu Dhabi), under floodlights, in a 40-over game. Andy Walker asked some umpires if they would umpire the officiate for £15 each, they obliged – and it turned out they were the international umpires checking out the ground for the England game the next day Recent progress The strong introduction and take-up of girls’ cricket. There have been some excellent results this season Future plans Reaching out to local professionals with an invitation to Cottesmore to contribute towards a cricket-packed day of training for the children

with local clubs such as Horsley & Send and Guildford. Hosting training for Afghan refugees in the area Best prospect Last season’s U11s had a number of talented cricketers and had a good season Professional cricketers produced Nick Peters (Surrey CCC) Brief history Cricket commenced at Cranmore under Mr Hartley Bishop. He was responsible for the building of the sports hall in 1984. The outstanding facility (providing 5 nets) meant that Cranmore became well known for hosting Nescafe courses and county age-group training. This continues today. Many coaches

received their education at Cranmore as it was the centre for ECB Level 1 and 2 courses in the county. Many pupils have represented district or county age-group sides and have benefitted from receiving coaching from former professionals such as Adam Hollioake and Alex Tudor while at Cranmore. Major tours are undertaken every two years Cultural cricketers Tom Felton (Draco Malfoy in Harry Potter) Finest moment on the field Cranmore has won the Surrey Prep Schools Cup several times at U11 and U13 level. More recently in 2023 a thrilling last-ball victory in the Rokeby

6-a-side tournament when chasing 90 in 5 overs Recent progress The appointment of a professional has enabled more one-to-one and small group coaching during the winter. When combined with the recent upgrade in facilities, the improvement in performance has been notable Future plans A closer relationship with St Teresa’s School enabling their girls to use Cranmore’s indoor nets and pitches. Also, the establishment and hosting of an U10 6-a-side tournament for local primary schools was a success in its inaugural year Tours Dubai 2027

Buchan Hill, Pease Pottage, West Sussex RH11 9AU Established 1894 Number of pupils 200 Head of cricket Andy Walker (Horsham CC and Sussex CCC U21s) Teams 18 teams at all age groups for girls and boys Fixtures The 1st XI play up to 12. Most notable are against Windlesham, Brambletye, Sunningdale and Woodcote House.

All other teams enjoy at least an eight-game fixture card. Every year the school hosts the fast-paced and hard-fought Cottesmore Sixes Facilities Seven grass squares. The 1st XI square and colts square have 10 strips, and there are 5 nets. There is a state-of-the-art electronic scoreboard, made by Durant Cricket, for the 1st X1 pitch Club/county affiliations One of the boys trains with the Sussex CCC squad. A number of youngsters are in the county age-group teams. Roffey and Horsham CCs Best prospects Leo Curtis, captain

CRANMORE SCHOOL Epsom Road, West Horsley.

Leatherhead, Surrey KT24 6AT Established 1968 Number of pupils 475 Master in charge Antony Down Professional Nicholas Smit (North West in South Africa and Esher CC) Teams 28 against other local schools from U8–U13 Fixtures 220 matches and tournaments – most notable is against Rokeby School in Surrey where over a week in May 150 pupils play in 15 matches from U8 to U13 competing for a trophy Facilities 4 grounds on the school site. 5 full-length indoor nets allow an extensive winter programme including use of 3 bowling machines. 2 outdoor portable nets have been purchased and 2 non-turf pitches installed. Use of Horsley & Send CC has allowed increase in fixture provision Club/county affiliations Surrey CCC. The school hosts Surrey agegroup training throughout the winter and has been the centre for their coach education programme. Strong 154 | thecricketer.com

CUMNOR HOUSE SUSSEX

CUMNOR HOUSE SUSSEX London Road, Danehill, Haywards Heath, West Sussex RH17 7HT Established 1931 Head of cricket Ben Chapman Teams 26 boys and girls from U8–U13 Fixtures More than 200, including against Ardingly College, Brighton College, Hurstpierpoint, Holmewood House, Great Walstead, St Andrews Eastbourne and Handcross Park Facilities 2 indoor nets, 4 artificial outdoor nets. 2 cricket cages to enable practice on 2 main squares.

The school can host 12 fixtures at any one time. These pitches cover all ranges of ability and age groups, from 11-a-side hard ball to 6-a-side softball pairs cricket. 2 artificial surfaces allow increase in the number of hardball matches played as well as 2 ‘throw-down’ nets to increase exposure to grass wickets Club/county affiliations Sussex CCC. Fletching CC, Horsted Keynes CC, Lindfield CC, Haywards Heath CC, Ditchling CC, Newick CC and Cuckfield CC. 3 local primary

schools, Danehill, Horsted Keynes and Plumpton Best prospect Arabella Keenan (Girls’ U13 seam-bowling allrounder, plays for Sussex U13s and Fletching CC. She scored more than 200 runs and took 20 wickets Professional cricketers produced Freya Kemp (England, England A, England Academy, Hampshire CCC, Southern Brave) Brief history Cricket has been played at the school since its inception in 1931. The school has

outstanding facilities. It is the major summer sport for boys and since 2016 for girls as well Cultural cricketers Piers Morgan, Simon Williams (actor), Rebecca Hall (actress) Finest moment on the field U13 girls crowned Sussex Independent Schools champions in 2024 and 2025 Recent progress The school places emphasis on participation – everyone enjoys playing the game.

Girls are regular members of colts and senior mixed teams, as well as

representing the girls’ teams. 6 boys and 6 girls are on the Sussex pathway programme at different age ranges.

All staff involved in running teams receive a one-day coaching course run internally, and have regular CPD during games sessions covering all aspects of the game. Cumnor House hosted the IAPS U11 girls’ tournament this year and had 8 schools attend Future plans School has submitted plans for a new sports hall to incorporate nets with 4 lanes

Every moment, extraordinary

BELONG • BELIEVE • BECOME Located in glorious Dorset countryside, Clayesmore is a hub of cricketing excellence.

OUTSTANDING COACHING YEAR ROUND CRICKET PROGRAMME STUNNING CRICKET GROUNDS Clayesmore is an all through school offering sports scholarships at Y5, Y7, Y9 & Y11

Contact: admissions@clayesmore.com

Discover a bright future Cumnor.co.uk

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

DAVENIES 73 Station Rd, Beaconsfield, Bucks HP9 1AA Established 1949 Number of pupils 348 Head of cricket Arthur Muir Teams U8–U10ABCD; U13s often field up to E teams Fixtures More than 100. Opponents include The Beacon, Chesham Prep, St Martin’s, Oratory Prep, Crosfields, St John’s Beaumont, St John’s Northwood, Gayhurst, Claires Court Facilities Indoor and outdoor nets, a bowling machine, spacious playing fields, and an astro pitch. Partnership with local clubs including Coleshill, The Hit & Miss Club on the Penn House Estate, and Knotty Green

156 | thecricketer.com

Club/county affiliations A key initiative is the Cricket Superstars event, where the school welcomes pupils from local primary schools for an afternoon of cricket coaching, matches, and fun activities Best prospect Nicholas Newell (1st XI captain, bowls pace and spin), earned cricket Colours at U11 and U12, as well as being named the ‘Colt of the Term’. Now he is on the Buckinghamshire pathway and plays for Beaconsfield CC Brief history Cricket is at the heart of life at Davenies School, where a love for the game is celebrated through an action-packed calendar of events.

From hosting the Primary Schools Cricket Festival – bringing together teams from across the region – to embarking on biennial tours, such as a recent adventure to Barbados (with another tour planned for 2026), Davenies offers pupils countless opportunities to play, compete, and grow. With expert coaching, enthusiastic support, and a real buzz around match day, cricket at Davenies is more than just a game – it’s a passion Finest moment on the field Tours to Grenada and Barbados Recent progress Arthur Muir’s arrival as head of cricket, bringing fresh energy and expertise to the programme Future plans Building stronger links with local clubs and schools, upgrading facilities, and continuing to grow participation across all year groups Tours Barbados 2026

DAVENIES // DRAGON SCHOOL

DRAGON SCHOOL Bardwell Road, Oxford OX2 6SS Established 1877 Number of pupils 820 Heads of cricket James Davies (girls’ cricket) James Springer (boys’) Teams 30 girls, 34 boys (both Years 3–8) Fixtures About 160 for the boys and 130 for the girls. Summer Fields and Caldicott are the big games. For the girls, there have been close fixtures with Farleigh and Cheam Facilities 3 refurbished nets with another 10 elsewhere. 6 grass pitches Club/county affiliation Tiddington CC, with a number of youngsters playing in their junior and senior sides, and annual fixtures against the Oxfordshire Bulls and Falcons.

Oxfordshire’s Bulls/Falcons initiative, established several years ago through the efforts of Neil Pickup, a member of staff at Dragon, creates more opportunities for state school children to play and train at a higher level, and is now supported by the county board including a series of fixtures for a range of ages and genders. The school has also increased the number of state schools it plays. Last July the school hosted the Oxfordshire U13 club finals day Best prospects The girls’ U13s represented the school to great effect last season, led by the pace-bowling pair of Elizabeth Elliott and Poppy Wilson and keeper/batter, Hebe Kingsbury, all of whom represent

Oxfordshire’s pathway sides Professional cricketers produced Maia Bouchier (Hampshire, Melbourne Stars, England), George Munsey (Scotland), Zach LionCachet (Sussex, Netherlands) Brief history The sport has flourished at Bardwell Road over many years, and the proximity to the university in Oxford has seen many pupils make the short trip to the colleges and on to first-class experiences. The Snapdragons is a traditional side, originally the Headmaster’s XI, comprised of players who needed close supervision. These days it is a year 8 side with a range of abilities and one of the school’s most successful Cultural cricketers Tim Henman, Emma Watson, Sebastian Croft, Hugh Laurie, Tom Hiddleston, Tom Hollander, Dom Joly and Jack Whitehall Finest moment on the field Last summer the girls’ U13s reached the final of the ECB indoor competition at Lord’s, following by the regional finals at Edgbaston. A narrow defeat meant that Dragon finished second by the barest of margins. The boys’ U11s were also close to glory in the IAPS event at Summer Fields, only for Arnold House to pip them in the final from the penultimate ball Recent progress Offering more fixtures, allowing cricketers of all abilities to play more and build a love of the game Future plans Improving out-ofseason training to offer cricket in the spring term as a club

DULWICH PREP // ELSTREE SCHOOL

DULWICH PREP 38–42 Alleyne Park, London SE21 7AA Established 1885 Number of pupils 810 Head of cricket Dennis Spammer Professional Josh Lawrence (Surrey CCC and Somerset CCC) Teams 38 – Year 8ABCD, Year 7 ABCDE, Year 6ABCDEF, Year 5ABCDEFGH, Year 4ABCDEFGH, T20 staff team Fixtures All year groups play 3 to 6 fixtures, plus cup competitions.

Year 7 and Year 8 play midweek and Saturdays and have 8-9 fixtures each

ELSTREE SCHOOL Woolhampton Hill, Upper Woolhampton, Reading RG7 5TD Established 1848 Number of pupils 210 in prep and 90 in pre-prep Head of cricket James Morris (ex-Berkshire CCC captain), Ben Champkin (director of sport), Katie

season. Notably contests against St Pauls, Whitgift and Dulwich College Facilities Superb indoor net facility with 5 lanes on a purpose-built floor for cricket. Gallery Road with 1st XI and 2nd XI wickets with picturesque pavilion in Dulwich Village, 3 astro wickets at Grange Lane playing fields and large areas at Mary Datchelor playing fields with grass wicket and junior spaces. The boys are often playing cricket in the playground with stumps painted on the wall so they can play all year round Club/county affiliation The Sports Hall nets are rented by local cricket clubs in the evenings. Strong link with Dulwich College

Best prospect A number of boys have gone on to play high-level cricket at school, club or county.

Currently, a number of boys in the Surrey and Kent pathways. Xander M is a wicketkeeper/bat who is performing well. Last season at junior level many boys made half-centuries batting for their year groups or playing for the year above Professional cricketers produced Ollie Sykes (Surrey CCC, and was named Wisden Schools Cricketer of the Year 2024). Daniel BellDrummond (Kent captain and England Lion, also Wisden award 2012). Rory Hamilton-Brown (Surrey & Sussex), Derek Underwood (Kent

& England), Trevor Bailey (Essex & England) Brief history Cricket has always been a vital part of the summer sports programme at Dulwich Prep and Senior Finest moment on the field Travelling to South Africa last year where schoolboy cricket is notoriously tough, Dulwich won 4 out of 5 which then led to an unbeaten season back in London Recent progress An extensive winter cricket programme that allows boys of all abilities to access cricket at their level Future plans Looking at increasing outdoor cricket facilities

Sanford (head of girls’ games) Teams 20 Fixtures About 20 days across the six year groups. Most notable fixtures against Ludgrove, Summer Fields, Cheam, Lambrook, Farleigh, Pilgrims and Cothill. Staff and Elstree Old Boys take part in the annual tournament at Bradfield College. Also local tournaments such as the U11 Mixed Cricket Festival at Wellington College,

the U11 Tournament at Sherborne School and the U10 at The Oratory Facilities 7 grounds for matches including one with an astro wicket and one at neighbouring Douai Abbey. Six outdoor grass nets near the main school building and a batting cage next to the 1st XI pitch. 4 indoor nets with a bowling machine in the sports hall Club/county affiliations Berkshire CCC. Local clubs including Thatcham and Falkland. Outreach Kwik cricket day for Year 2 and local primary schools and host pre-season courses run by Serious Cricket Best prospect Teddy Dalrymple, son of Jamie Dalrymple, an exciting allrounder with a strong cricket brain, left arm spinner Professional cricketers produced Nick Gubbins (Middlesex & England Lions) and Archie MacLaren (Lancashire & England captain playing 35 Tests between 1898 and 1909). The school’s current headmaster, Sid Inglis, has 3 international caps for Chile Brief history Since the school

moved to Berkshire in 1848, the facilities have adapted and improved to support a growing numbers of pupils. The Bramel Sports Hall is fitted with indoor nets and the outdoor nets were updated in 2020. There are two cricket pavilions, an astro wicket, covers and a batting cage next to the 1st XI pitch. The school is proud of its mixed teams Cultural cricketers James Blunt, (singer-songwriter), Edwin Bramall (field marshal), Sebastian Faulks (novelist), J Bruce Ismay (owner and survivor of the RMS Titanic) Finest moment on the field Seeing girls and boys play together for the same team. Girls’ cricket isn’t just offered at Elstree, it’s actively encouraged Recent progress Improving the strength in depth throughout the school. Enthusiastic teachers/ coaches work tirelessly to help develop the youngsters’ interest in the game, regardless of ability or experience Future plans More Kwik Cricket tournaments are fully up and running, and welcoming Year 2 pre-prep pupils and local primary school children thecricketer.com | 157

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

FELSTED PREP SCHOOL Felsted, Dunmow, Essex CM6 3LL Established 1564 Number of pupils 440 Head of cricket Jo Westwood

HABERDASHERS’ BOYS’ PREP SCHOOL Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF Established 1690 Professionals Ben Howgego (ex‑Northants CCC) and Jamie Hewitt (ex-Middlesex CCC and Kent CCC) Teams 25, Y3–Y6, 5 teams per year group

158 | thecricketer.com

FELSTED PREP SCHOOL // HABERDASHERS’ BOYS’ PREP SCHOOL

Director of cricket Jason Gallian Professional Lissy Macleod Teams 29 Fixtures 103 a term for cricket.

Bishop’s Stortford College is most notable Facilities 10 outdoor nets, 4 indoor

nets in the sports hall, 4 pitches at prep school and 6 at senior school Club/county affiliations Essex CCC and Sunrisers through Gallian, Macleod and Carla Rudd Professional cricketers produced Jordan Cox, Will Buttleman, Derek

Pringle, John Stephenson, Nick Knight, Emma Jones, Grace Poole, Jessica Olorenshaw Brief history Felsted School has a long and proud tradition of cricket, with its first pitch opened in 1805.

The school has consistently been recognised as a top cricket school, producing numerous first-class and international cricketers, including Pringle, Knight and Stephenson.

Felsted’s cricket programme is well‑established, offering opportunities for both boys and girls, and the school continues to develop players who excel at the highest levels Finest moment on the field The first game of the U13A girls season in 2025, against BSC, saw two girls reach 50 and 51, helping Felsted win with two balls to go Recent progress Great links with Essex cricket. The school has a male and female coach who are both ECB Level 2. The girls’ programme is developing year after year with double the amount of girls playing hardball cricket. Girls are now wearing coloured kit for all fixtures to allow them to feel comfortable playing

Fixtures 100, including Hertfordshire Under-11 Hardball County Cup, IAPS Y6 Tournament Facilities 3 grass wickets, 2 astro, 6 grass training wickets, 9 astro nets, 2 indoor nets Club/county affiliations Middlesex CCC, Hertfordshire CCC, Radlett CC Best prospects Krish Tatineni, Vivaan Gharpure, Ayush Pujara Professional cricketers produced Richard Yeabsley (Middlesex CCC), Tom Colverd (MCCU), Gavin Baker

(Northants CCC) Brief history Cricket is a hugely popular sport in the school. Boys play at both elite and participation levels, with weekly lessons and regular matches. More than 100 fixtures have been set up to meet the demand Cultural cricketers Dean Wilson (journalist) and Manoj Badale (co‑owner of Rajasthan Royals) Finest moment on the field Reaching the under-11 county cup

final for the past 2 years, a cricket tour every 2 years to Barbados Cricketing progress Collaboration with the girls’ school, mixed teams to represent Habs in local and county competitions. All teachers using ECB icoach resources. New pavilion and developing the main square. Head of cricket provides certain students with winter training and supports their all-round game Tours Barbados 2024 and March 2026

HEATHFIELD JUNIOR SCHOOL

HEATHFIELD JUNIOR SCHOOL

Royal CC; Sunbury CC; Teddington CC. Watson also coaches the Hounslow Street U13 team which Cobbett Road, won the London Youth Twickenham TW2 6EN Games in 2024, and at Sheen CC. One day a week Head of cricket James Watson he is funded by the Steve James Watson Head of cricket Talboys Foundation to go Teams Year 4 boys A; Year 4 into local primary schools to girls AB; Year 5 boys AB, Year promote cricket and provide pathway 5 girls AB; Year 6 Boys ABC, Year 6 into HWRCC girls AB, best mixed team Best prospect Yasha Bhan (Year 6, Fixtures Pupils play under the the school’s outstanding bowler at the banner of HWRCC as a school side.

Mason Cup at Lord’s; offie, elegant bat) The school enters the borough Kwik Brief history Before lockdown the tournament for Year 5s and 6s for girls school’s pupils had never played and boys. Watson runs a competition cricket. Now it is the main sport for local schools for Year 3s, 4s, 5s with highest participation levels. and 6s, girls and boys. The school Pupils chosen to sing the national enters the Mason Cup (an indoor anthem for T20 World Cup 2021. competition for girls) normally only Visits from Richard Thompson, for independent schools. Girls and Zafar Ansari, Donna Fraser, Monte boys enter the Surrey Schools Cup. Lynch, Angus Fraser and Monty Mixed team entered Capital Kids Panesar. Emma Jones provides competition winter masterclasses and Surrey Facilities 3 nets with Flicx pitches, a prospect Ivreen Dhaliwal has Flicx pitch for fixtures; multi-use hall delivered assemblies and coaching. and playground Quarter pageaffi 128mm x 97mm Watson and Callum Donnelly were Club/county liation Middlesex invited to No.10 Downing Street.

CCC; Surrey Foundation; Chance Heathfield shortlisted for national to Shine; Sheen CC; Hampton Wick

awards for their work breaking down cricketing barriers Finest moment on the field Seeing children on big screens in T20 World Cup 2021 singing the national anthem.

Boys and girls’ borough champions in 2023, 2024 and 2025. Girls’ U11s were Surrey hardball league champions beating big clubs. They were also Middlesex softball champions. Boys and girls both reached the Chance to Shine National Street Finals playing three years up. Girls were Surrey U9s Smash It champions as a school side

against clubs. Winners of Mason Cup – first and only state school girls’ team to win it. Winners of HWRCC Primary Schools Cup 2025 for U9 girls, U11 girls and U11 boys Recent progress Running more girls’ teams in the younger age groups.

Being nationally recognised at the House of Commons for holiday and food cricket camps Future plans Watson has organised a local competition at HWRCC for schools with 32 teams attending and more than 240 children

Heathfield Schools’ Partnership The best start for a brilliant future.

Developing life and leadership skills through cricket.

Cricket is truly thriving at Heathfield. www.heathfieldschoolspartnership.org 0208 894 3525

l Boys’ fortnightly boarding prep school l 130 acres of grounds l Excellent academic and pastoral record l Expert coaching l Up to 15 cricket teams fielded weekly l Indoor and outdoor nets l Annual pre season cricket tour to Desert Springs, Spain l Strong track record of sport scholarships to senior schools

Ludgrove, Wokingham, Berks RG40 3AB l 0118 978 9881 l registrar@ludgroveschool.co.uk l www.ludgrove.net

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

HIGHFIELD & BROOKHAM SCHOOL // KING’S COLLEGE PREP

KING’S COLLEGE PREP Kingston Road, Taunton, Somerset TA2 8AA

HIGHFIELD & BROOKHAM SCHOOL Highfield Lane, Liphook, Hampshire GU30 7LQ Established 1897 Number of pupils 483 Head of cricket Richard Dunn Teams U13 – 9; U11 - 6; U10 – 6; U9 – 4; U8 – 5 Fixtures About 230, with notable ones against Aldro and Twyford, and Westbourne House for the Bursary Fund Trophy in both the boys and girls’ fixtures Facilities Nets: Indoor x 3, outdoor x 3 artificial, 2 x grass and 2 x mobile cages to make grass nets. In total 12 cricket, 4 are artificial pitches. 2 are on full-sized astro, and 6 grass pitches. 3 bowling machines, 3 covers for the 1st XI square, and 2 Flicx mats for further pitches.

Every pitch has a scoreboard Club/county affiliations A number of pupils that play for Liphook & Ripsley, Fernhurst, Haslemere and Grayshott Cricket Clubs as well as the Hampshire Hogs CC. The school has a sponsorship deal for the junior section shirts of Fernhurst CC. 160 | thecricketer.com

Grayshott and Fernhurst both rent out pitches at the weekend, and Hampshire Schools are going to be using the 1st XI square for a fixture this summer Best prospect Milly Valentine: opened the batting and scored three half-centuries this season, including 92 not out in the IAPS 3rd/4th finals match. She has a good eye for the ball, a strong drive and pull shot. She keeps too, taking some good catches, and is a vocal captain Finest moment on the field Last season the girls’ 1st XI reached the finals of the IAPS at Taunton, following in the boys’ 1st XI success in the competition last year.

The girls lost their first game but won their second to finish third.

The boys UXIs came 4th in the IAPS finals at Merchant Taylors’ Recent progress The girls’ success at 1st XI had a brilliant season, while the girls’ 2nd XI lost only 1 game. The progress of the boys and girls at Under-8 has been considerable Future plans Continuing to promote facilities to local clubs.

Joint ventures so that clubs can work together to promote the game rather than compete for participants/players Tours Biennial to Barbados, next is in 2027

Established 1951 Number of pupils 350 Head of cricket Rob Woodman Professional Keith Parsons (Somerset 1992–2008) Teams 15 from U8–U13, boys and girls Fixtures Weekly Wednesday matches and regular Saturday.

Highlights being the County Cup Fixtures (U13 girls are county champions, U13 and U12 boys in the county finals) Facilities 4 x indoor nets with a bowling machine, 5 x outdoor nets, 9 grass wickets/pitches and the use of the facilities at King’s College, Taunton Club/county affiliations The school is part of the MCC Cricket Foundation Programme. It has strong links with Somerset CCC – with King’s facilities regularly used. It also has a relationship with several local state primary schools. Since 2023 they are part of the fixture list. North Curry CC also train in the indoor nets during the winter Best prospects Thomas Rew (current Year 12, captain of England Under-19s and played for Somerset 1st XI in the Vitality Blast last season); Katie Rowe (current Year 12, Somerset EPP and playing academy cricket.

Scored her first 100 for the school last season).

Both came through the prep school cricket programme Professional cricketers produced James and Thomas Rew, George and Josh Thomas, Zach

Vukusic, Katie Rowe Brief history Cricket has always been at the forefront of King’s culture and traditions. Boys and girls from 5–18 years play cricket across the school at a variety of levels. King’s has been a MCC Foundation Hub for more than 10 years, and was the first school to help launch this programme. It also has a longstanding relationship with Somerset CCC, with many pupils going on to play first-class cricket with Somerset and many other first-class counties Finest moment on the field U11 national finalists 4 years in a row. U13, U12, U11 boys and U13 girls were all county champions at the same time, in 2021 Recent progress The school’s cricket programme is continually developing and expanding. There are now more than 40 prep school pupils having access to extra cricket sessions on a weekday evening and Saturday morning throughout the winter programme. The Saturday sessions are held in the indoor cricket centre at King’s College, led by Keith Parsons Tours A mixed-sport European trip for Year 7 and 8 pupils in 2026

LOCKERS PARK // LUDGROVE SCHOOL

LOCKERS PARK

Draper in 1874, Lockers Park has been blessed with a series of headmasters who were fanatical cricketers. It has always been a sport for all with cricket played every day throughout summer term. In the 1970s the first school in the area to introduce limited-overs cricket and recently embraced playing 100-ball cricket in coloured kit and using flashing bails

Cultural cricketers Lord Louis Mountbatten, Sir Alistair Aird, MPs Keith Joseph, Sir Anthony Berry, Paul Channon, Guy Mansfield, James Honeybourne What sets the school apart? The school size is such that no pupil is overlooked. Every boy plays in regular fixtures throughout the term, including boys who had never heard of cricket from Spain and the Far East, but sometimes reach 1st XI standard Finest moment on the field In 2011 the side was led by the opening pair who were part of an unbeaten 14-match season Recent progress Creating a love of cricket among staff and boys.

Every boy in Year 5-8 represents the school every week. Up-skilling staff in coaching across all age groups Future plans Introduction of cricket activities of Little Lockers Boys in Reception, Year 1 and 2. Generating love of the game at an early age and providing opportunity for all to play and learn. Continued drop-in sessions for senior boys through the winter Tours South Africa 2007, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2024, 2026

Finest moment on the field The school have maintained a winning run against most main rivals over the last number of years, winning many tournaments. In 2019 and 2023 they went unbeaten, and next year’s crop should be similarly strong.

This year they are very proud of the U11s who battled through to win the Winchester Cricket Tournament Recent progress The refurbishment of many facilities, electronic

scoreboard and nets shows the school is committed to Ludgrove’s cricketing future Future plans The school are investigating expanding their tours, looking at taking bigger groups of boys, and have additional professional coaching on Sunday mornings preseason Tours Last winter they made their fourth trip to Desert Springs and are considering South Africa

Lockers Park Ln, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP1 1TL Established 1874 Number of pupils 189 Director of sport Jack Doyle Teams U13ABCDE, U11ABCDE, U9ABCD Fixtures Between 80-90 a year.

Haileybury for senior 1st XI has become an annual traditional game Facilities 3 outdoor nets, 4 indoor nets, 1 grass square, 1 astro strip wicket, astroturf. This year started playing indoor cricket fixtures to allow every boy a chance to represent the school Club/county affiliation Run local primary school masterclasses. This is leading towards hosting a primary schools festival Best prospect Balthazar VandraSimon, U11 opening batter and seam bowler, scored runs throughout 2025 season. His traditional yet attacking style sees him rotate the strike well, but score off the bad balls. Ball in hand, he has a natural shape away from the batter

Cricketers of note Stanley Jackson (Yorkshire & England), Bryan Valentine (Kent, England), Nawab of Pataudi (Sussex & England), Tom Pugh (Gloucestershire), Ronnie Aird (Hampshire, MCC president), George Panayi (Warwickshire), George Garrett (Warwickshire & Kent) Brief history Starting with Henry

LUDGROVE SCHOOL

generation to be head) Alan Barber, representing Yorkshire. The school has been in numerous Ludgrove, Wokingham, magazines celebrating prep Berkshire RG40 3AB school cricket. Ludgrove’s passion for cricket and Established 1892 inclusivity for all the boys Number of pupils 194 is best demonstrated by Master in charge the school’s unique game Gabriel French of ‘Stump’. Played with a Teams 18 – Gabriel French Master in charge narrow shaved-down bat, a U13ABCDEFGH, U11ABC, tennis ball and a solid wicket, U10ABCD, U9ABC Stump is played whenever the boys Girls’ cricket 12 fixtures, notable ones against traditional rivals Summer have free time. Unchanged since the early 1900s, the joy of the game is Fields and Cothill, though Lambrook that the boys playing often span all and Caldicott are important parts of five year groups and, no matter what the calendar their cricketing skills may be, they Facilities 4 newly refurbished astro encourage each other to join in and nets, 4 indoor nets, 8 grass nets, have fun 1 batting cage, 2 BOLA bowling Cultural cricketers John Major machines, 1 astro wicket and 8 grass played matches at the school. Bear wickets Grylls played in the 1st XI Club/county affiliation Berkshire What sets the school apart?

Cricketers of note In the last few Ludgrove Legends, a team of staff, years Ludgrove have produced a parents, members of the board number of captains of public schools. of governors and past pupils won Two of the Radley captains in the last the Charlie Marshall fundraising three years attended the school tournament at Bradfield, a charity Brief history The first headmasters aimed at raising money to assist with played first-class cricket, with the current head’s grandfather (he is third mental health

thecricketer.com | 161

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

MERCHANT TAYLORS’ PREP SCHOOL Moor Farm Bungalow, Sandy Lodge Rd, Moor Park, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 1LW Established 1910 Number of pupils 370 Director of sport Dominic Todd Head of cricket Max Horne (Hertfordshire) Teams 1st XI, 2nd XI, U11ABCD, U10ABCD, U9ABCD

Fixtures 50-plus regular matches with local derbies against St John’s and St Martin’s the most anticipated. They enter U13 IAPS National Cup and U11 Hertfordshire Schools County Cup which provide wider competition Facilities 3 pitches at the prep school, a cricket specialist groundsman, 6 outdoor nets and 4 indoor nets on site. Roll-on covers, sightscreens and scorehut on main wicket.

Two bowling machines including TrueMan. Access to cricket facilities at the senior school

MERCHANT TAYLORS’ PREP SCHOOL // MILLFIELD PREP SCHOOL

Club/county affiliation Most A-team cricketers in all age groups play district, area or county cricket (Herts & Middlesex). The school have strong affiliations with Old Merchant Taylors’, Eastcote and Stanmore CCs Best prospect U11 captain and Middlesex U11 keeper/batsman, Arjun Patel Brief history Cricket is the main sport at the school. There is a real passion for the game and excellent facilities. Boys play cricket at break time and a huge number play club

cricket. Recent success at county and national level has enhanced their cricketing reputation. The school plays on a traditionally strong North London circuit and more boys play club cricket than any other sport. The adjacent Merchant Taylors’ School hosts first-class matches as well as winter training for Middlesex CCC in the Julian Hill Cricket Centre Cultural cricketers Sir David Lidington (former MP and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster) Finest moment on the field IAPS U13 National Cup runners-up 2015 and 2022. Hertfordshire Schools U11 champions 2018, 2019, 2021, 2024, 2025. East of England U11 winners 2019 and finalists 2018 and 2025. U11 national finals 2019 Recent progress Retained U11 Hertfordshire Cup, attended regional finals and missed qualification for nationals on run-rate. 6 new outdoor astro nets were opened officially in the spring term Future plans Losing their Year 7 and 8 pupils to the senior school but increasing school entry Year 3-6 which will increase the number of teams in those age groups

for both girls and boys. This structure allows participation in A, B, and C matches for U13, U12, and U11. The 1st XI, U12s, and Development Squads regularly compete against county age-group teams. Up to 12 home games played on beautifully prepared pitches and grounds on Wednesdays or Saturdays. The boys’ 1st XI has frequently won the David Bunbury and National Prep Schools titles, and many pupils have represented county sides, particularly Somerset.

Numerous alumni have advanced to play first-class cricket, with at least 10 currently active. The girls’ team has thrice won the National Indoor title at Lord’s, including a recent summer victory, and have not lost to a county side. Pupils participate in club sessions during the winter, with individual coaching lessons Cultural cricketers Roland Rudd (financier), Chris Robshaw (England rugby), Richard and Simon Mantell (hockey), Ella Eyre (musician) Finest moment on the field The growth of girls’ cricket has been phenomenal. U13 girls have won the indoor national competition four times in seven years. Between 2014– 15 the senior development squad (U13) boys won the National Bunbury Cup, National RNCF (Jet) Cup and the Somerset County Trophy. They beat every team they played in 2025, including seven county sides, going 26 games unbeaten Recent progress 30 members of games staff who support the cricket programme Future plans First-team ‘Dutton’ pitch has brand-new sightscreens and brand-new covers

MILLFIELD PREP SCHOOL Edgarley Hall, Glastonbury, Somerset BA6 8LD Established 1945 Number of pupils 450 Director of cricket Dave Beal (Somerset) Head of boys’ Marc Gardiner Head of girls’ Kim Morgan-Hughes Teams 15 boys’ and 15 girls’ teams Fixtures About 140 a year, combining girls’ and boys’ fixture lists. Regularly in two U13 boys national competitions and the County Cup. Girls recently won the National Indoor Finals at Lord’s and play in the County Cup Facilities 8 outdoor nets, 4 indoor nets, outdoor portable net for grass net practice, 10 grass pitches and 2 artificial wickets. Indoor bowling machine and outdoor bowling machine Club/county affiliation Strong links with Somerset. Huge number of county players in all pathway ages Best prospect Bella Lloyd (Year 8) is a strong allrounder at Somerset Cricketers of note Peter Denning, David Graveney, Harvey Trump, 162 | thecricketer.com

Piran Holloway, Aftab Habib, Jeremy Hallett, Wes Durston, Ben Hollioake, James Hildreth, Max Waller, Ben Duckett, Daniel Bell-Drummond, Matt Hobden, Charlie Hartley, Cameron Steel, George Hankins, Will Smeed, Kasey Aldridge, Jess Hazell, Lily Hawkins, Dominic Kelly, Joseph Eckland Brief history A diverse range of cricket opportunities for pupils of all levels and ages. Matches start from U8, with 15 sides across six age groups

MILTON KEYNES PREPARATORY SCHOOL // NOTTINGHAM ACADEMY PRIMARY

MILTON KEYNES PREPARATORY SCHOOL

BOLA bowling machine, a feeding buddy for junior and beginners. PitchVision – entire system to video and analyse all aspects of bowlers and batters Tattenhoe Ln, Bletchley, Club/county affiliation Milton Keynes MK3 7EG Andrew Hall Northants. Stony Stratford Head of cricket CC, Great Brickhill CC Established 1975 and Stoke Hammond CC. Number of pupils 450 They play at least one game a year at Head of cricket Andrew Hall Campbell Park, Milton Keynes (Northamptonshire & South Africa) Best prospect Madison Eatwell Teams 34: U7 mixed house teams, (Northants U11 Girls’ captain and U8ABC, Girls ABC, Mixed AB; U9 scholarship to Sedbergh School) Boys ABC, Girls ABC, Mixed ABCD; Cricketers of note Aadi Sharma Senior boys U10 & U11 ABCD, Seniors (Northants) Girls U10 & U11 ABCD, Mixed senior Brief history In 50 years cricket has ABCD grown in popularity and significance, Fixtures 78 fixtures over 9 weeks. particularly in the past 10 years, with The most notable girls’ fixture is the addition of 7 lanes of outdoor nets against Sir Henry Flloyd Grammar and a bowling machine School, playing their Year 8s v MKPS Year 6s. U11 Boys v Bedford Prep. MKS What sets the school apart? This have been invited back to the Bedford year MKPS celebrate the school’s 50th anniversary and hosted a Sixes tournament after finishing mixed teams senior (Years 5 and 6) runners-up 2 years in a row hardball festival at Campbell Park.

Facilities 7 astroturf retractable nets, The teams were named Sharma, outdoors on multi-sport astro field. 2 Poulter, Fashanu and Selvey after Indoor retractable nets (probability professional sports parents and pupils of 3 nets indoors), a full-length Flicx of the school. That was followed by wicket to play more hardball cricket an Alumni, parent and staff match on school football pitches. Junior also held at Campbell Park, Driver’s Daredevils v Andrew Hall’s XI Finest moment on the field A range of firsts in 2025: Maria Scandian 5 for 14 v Bilton Grange; Reyansh Auddy 50 not out v Swanbourne. Winning the IAPS U11 cricket competition at Merchant Taylors’ School in 2022; U11 girls remaining unbeaten in 2025 winning all 8 of their hard ball fixtures. U11 Girls A won the IAPS U11 cricket tournament

NOTTINGHAM ACADEMY PRIMARY Greenwood Road, Nottingham NG3 7EB Established 2011 Number of pupils 700 Master in charge Andrew Staszkiewicz (headteacher) and Luke Taylor-Hutchinson (head of cricket) Teams 3 teams. Year 5/6 Boys, Year 5/6 Girls and Year 4 mixed Girls’ cricket The school actively look to encourage as many girls to play as possible and always run a team within school. In 2024 the school offered independent sessions for a girls’ team and also entered Nottinghamshire’s Dynamos cricket tournament Fixtures Between 10 and 20 fixtures based on success in local and regional tournaments. Also take part in Notts Dynamos tournament each year Facilities Limited in comparison to other schools in terms of facilities.

They have a net, an artificial wicket and a field used for practice Club/county affiliation A partnership with Caythorpe CC and often hold camps there. Also affiliated to Notts CCC Best prospect Abdullah is a fast bowler and a very useful batsman who likes to give it a whack, resulting in a number of tennis balls ending

up on the roof this year. He was also the captain of the School in Notts Dynamos, enabling the school to finish third in the county Brief history An inner-city school in one of the most deprived areas in England. Cricket is natural to many of the children and is something they look to do all of the time. As a school they have supported this natural love of the game and each year build teams to challenge in local competitions but also provide their youngsters with as many opportunities as they can What sets the school apart? The genuine love for the game. The children don’t play for any prestige, but because they love the sport Finest moment on the field Winning the regional Dynamos cricket tournament in 2022. Elvin Aljankovic also managed to get a hat-trick on finals day of 2024 Notts’ Dynamos Cricket Recent progress The school are proud of the number of children who started playing cricket for the first time in school but now play hardball cricket for clubs. The school have started working with Chance to Shine Future plans To continue to build partnerships with other local clubs.

They would like to form an ‘old boys’ side to play a match against one of the well-known private schools thecricketer.com | 163

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

ORWELL PARK SCHOOL

hall for all-weather training, floodlit astroturf for versatile sports use, expansive grounds providing ample space for practice and matches Club/county affiliation Orwell Park engages with the local community through events like the Summer Cricket Camp, open to pupils from Years 1 to 8, including those not attending the school. Coaching is led by Mansfield and Martin Trimby, promoting cricket development beyond the school Best prospect Mason Omokore, a fast bowler and top-order batsman who’s come on massively over the past couple of years. He has real pace with the ball and plays his shots with confidence at the top of the order.

What really stands out is his drive to get better. He’s always keen to learn,

puts in the hard work, and has a real love for the game Cricketers of note Simon Fernandes (Essex) Brief history Cricket has been integral to Orwell Park since its inception in 1868. The school’s commitment to the sport is evident through its extensive facilities, dedicated coaching staff, and robust fixture list. In 2016, cricket became the main summer sport for girls, reflecting the school’s inclusive and progressive approach.

The introduction of a one-to-one coaching programme in 2017 further strengthened individual player development and highlighted the commitment to personalised coaching and excellence Finest moment on the field

Winning the 2025 U11 Girls Suffolk Schools Cup stands out. The school takes pride in annually hosting a prestigious Six-a-Side Cricket Tournament, now in its 39th year, which brings together schools from across the region Recent progress Being named in the UK’s Top 50 Prep Schools by The Cricketer’s Schools Guide 2024 reflected the school’s commitment to high-quality coaching, facilities, and a comprehensive cricket programme Future plans Expand community engagement through initiatives like the Summer Cricket Camp, enhancing facilities, and continuing to develop coaching programmes to nurture young talent and promote cricket within and beyond the school

additional fields Club/county affiliation Packwood enjoys links with a number of local clubs involved in both the Shropshire CCC county and regional junior leagues. Older players are encouraged to play in local adult teams too. Pupils Tammy Pembleton are encouraged to trial for Shropshire county and Director of sport

district teams. This year 3 U13 boys, 3 U12 boys, 5 U11 boys and 2 U11 girls were successful in gaining places in county squads and 15 pupils gained places in district squads Best prospect Louis van Cutsem and Ruben Pembleton both gained sports scholarships to Shrewsbury School Cricketers of note Tim Lamb (Middlesex and Northamptonshire) was later ECB chief executive Brief history Cricket has been played at Packwood since the school’s earliest days. The school’s greatest cricketer to date arrived from South Africa in 1909. JD Wyatt-Smith was an outstanding player, averaging more than 100 runs each season during his time at Packwood. The strength of Packwood cricket has continued to grow over the years and it is now the principal summer sport for both boys and girls Finest moment on the field National U11 Hardball Finals Day at Oakham School; U13 girls reaching finals of the Lady Taverners National Indoor Cricket Competition three years running 2014, 2015 and 2016 and runners-up in 2016; U13s reaching

the JET Cup finals day at St Edward’s School Oxford Recent progress Introduction of U13 and U11 Packwood Festivals to create stronger links with local junior clubs and more playing opportunities for pupils Future plans The creation of a Centre of Excellence at Packwood to drive cricket as the school’s major game

Nacton, Ipswich, Suffolk IP10 0ER Established 1868 Number of pupils 240 Master in charge Adam Mansfield (Suffolk coach) Teams Boys’: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI & 5th XI, U9A, U9B, Colts ABCD. Girls’: 1st XI, 2nd XI, U11AB, U9AB Fixtures The school maintains a comprehensive fixture programme, with numerous matches across all age groups. Notable fixtures include Woodbridge School and Framlingham College Facilities Orwell Park boasts extensive cricket facilities, including multiple grass pitches, indoor sports

PACKWOOD SCHOOL Park Bank, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY4 1HX

Established 1892 Number of pupils 190 Director of sport Tammy Pembleton Professionals James Wojda, Matt Swift, Tyler Ibbotson, Paul Phillips Teams 4 U13 Boys, 2 U13 Girls, 4 U11 Boys, 2 U11 Girls, 4 U9 Boys, 2 U9 Girls Girls’ cricket Fixtures organised for pupils in all teams, mostly occurring on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. This year instigated a number of Packwood Eights festivals for U11 and U13 school and club teams. The 1st XI, Colts XI, U13 Girls and U11 Girls also attended local tournaments Malvern Eights, Shrewsbury School Prep Schools Tournament and Wrekin Sixes Facilities 4 indoor nets, 4 artificial outdoor nets, 6 grass nets, 9 grounds (including 1 artificial and 2 squares).

Frequently use the Shrewsbury School Flicx wickets when they need 164 | thecricketer.com

ORWELL PARK SCHOOL // PACKWOOD SCHOOL

PAPPLEWICK SCHOOL

PAPPLEWICK SCHOOL Windsor Rd, Ascot, Berkshire SL5 7LH Established 1947 Number of pupils 210 Master in charge Josh Sivier (The Wicket Keeping Coach on social platforms) Teams 23 from U7A and Bs to U13s.

U13 and U12 combine to create the 1st XI to 6th XI Fixtures 200, most notable against Ludgrove and Lambrook. They play touring sides from South Africa each year Facilities A recently updated 8-lane net facility. On a small site, the head of grounds does brilliantly to accommodate 4 pitches each summer plus a recently built astro.

One of the pitches is incredibly close to the stained-glass windows of the chapel; no ball has been hit through them (yet). A 4-lane net facility in the sports hall Club/county affiliation The school host an U7 cricket festival every year with local primary schools coming to improve their cricket through

an afternoon of games with skilled coaches. The school back a charity in South Africa, The Leading Edge, who support talented cricketers from townships around Cape Town.

They recently partnered with Royal Ascot CC to get more boys playing

club cricket Best prospect Dalair in Year 5, a powerful left-handed bat and left‑arm leg spinner Cricketers of note Wilf La Fontaine Jackson has his name on the honours board for a hundred while captaining

the 1st XI in 2018. In 2025 he scored a double-hundred against Durham 2nd XI for Durham University Brief history Cricket has always played an important role in school life. They have always been competitive on the local circuit with an ethos of playing hard but fair. The boys train every day (except for Thursday) with the juniors having at least one fixture a week, with the senior boys having two Cultural cricketers A long tradition of a Fathers v Staff fixture. Owais Shah and Saj Mahmood guested last year. The staff did not have a successful game. Other players have included Chris Cowdrey, Allan Lamb and Barry Richards Finest moment on the field Last year Papplewick overcame a strong Thomas More side from Durban, with the captain scoring 40 not out off 12 balls Recent progress A culture shift of more boys wanting to play the game all year round Future plans Committed to increasing opportunities for Year 7 and 8 boarders to participate in club cricket and train during the week Tours South Africa (2027)

The dedication of the teachers, the nurturing environment, and the emphasis on both personal character and academic growth were amazing. Francia, past pupil

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TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS PRESTFELDE SCHOOL London Rd, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY2 6NZ Established 1929 Number of pupils 300 Master in charge Mike Haswell Teams 17 in all Fixtures 90. Packwood the most notable Facilities 4 grass squares, 2 artificial strips, 2 Flicx wickets, 8 rough softball strips, 6 grass nets, 2 artificial nets, gym, tennis courts Club/county affiliation Shropshire CCC make use of the facilities and for matches, Shrewsbury CC shared use of facilities Best prospect Sophia Parton, an all rounder, fast away swing bowler and top order batter, whose best shots are the cover drive and square drive.

Recently played for Shropshire U18s as a 13-year-old Cricketers of note Jack Home (Shropshire, Worcestershire & England U19) Brief history Traditionally an all boys boarding prep school, cricket has long played an important role

in Prestfelde boys’ PE provision. Now a fully co-educational school, the girls have started to play cricket on the school’s beautiful grounds. The school has had a great deal of recent success, reaching the U 11 National finals in three of the last seven years, winning the competition in 2017. The same team went on the win the David English competition in 2019 Finest moment on the field U13 David English Bunbury National Champions in 2019 Recent progress Girls playing on merit in mixed teams; 17 fixtures on one day, 9 at home; staff going out of their comfort zone to coach and umpire matches Future plans Continued partnerships with local clubs and a new cage for the square

Facilities 4-lane sports hall for indoor nets. 5-lane artificial surface outdoor nets opened in 2021. 2 roll-on cricket cages for grass wicket practice on one of the 9 cricket squares Club/county affiliation Queen’s College are now shirt and ground sponsors of Trull CC. The head of cricket continues to lead the junior coaching programme, and school facilities are regularly used for club training and matches.

The junior section, in its Trull Rd, Taunton, second year now, boasts two Somerset TA1 4QS Caroline Foster teams at U11 and U13 in local Head of cricket leagues. Queen’s proudly Established 1843 host an U11 Cricket Festival each year, Number of pupils 196 Head of cricket Caroline Foster (née engaging local primary schools to share the facilities and playing opportunities.

Atkins, England Women) This year Alfie Ogborne and Andy Professionals Andy Venning is the Umeed held a Q&A and presented new head of prep boys’ games and a prizes. The specialist coaches work cricket specialist who also works on in local programmes including the the Somerset Pathway; Arul Suppiah Somerset Pathway, MCC Foundation (ex-Somerset, and now also the PCA); Karla Rose (Somerset Women) Hubs and local clubs Best prospects Luca Slottje-Pick Teams 11: Boys U11AB, U10AB; Girls and Seb Shire are two hard-hitting U11AB, U10AB, U10/11C; plus mixed batsmen with fiery pace teams for U9 and U8 Cricketers of note JT Langridge Fixtures 76 matches engaging all (England Under-19s, Somerset), Year 3-6 pupils

QUEEN’S COLLEGE PREP SCHOOL, TAUNTON

166 | thecricketer.com

PRESTFELDE SCHOOL // QUEEN’S COLLEGE PREP SCHOOL TAUNTON

Ffion Hand (Ireland, Somerset 2nd XI), Jacob Lintott (Warwickshire, Southern Brave), Matt Gitsham (Gloucestershire), Gary Palmer (Somerset) Brief history Cricket is not just a game at Queen’s College, it’s a tradition. Every student at Queen’s has the opportunity to step onto the pitch and enjoy the game. 1st XI pictures date back to 1934 Finest moment on the field National Champions of the Lord’s Taverners Colts Trophy in 1983 played at Edgbaston Recent progress Queen’s College has become Pacelab Summer 2025 Hub, which has brought significant talent for training and has proven a

great addition to our thriving cricket CPD opportunities. Queen’s College is now an HPL-accredited worldclass cchool. The High Performance Learning is integrated into the Cricket Framework to better develop skilful, thinking cricketers Future plans To further develop the Pacelab partnership. Revamp the pavilion in keeping with tradition.

To disseminate coaching resources beyond Queen’s to facilitate player development in feeder schools and clubs, and to attract forward-thinking coaches

prepadmissions@queenscollege.org.uk queenscollege.org.uk

REPTON PREP

REPTON PREP Milton, Foremark, Derbyshire DE65 6EJ Established 1940 Number of pupils 450 Head of cricket Adam Hoult Professional Martin Speight (Repton senior school technical director of cricket, ex-Sussex and Durham) Teams U9 – 4 mixed teams; U11 – 9 mixed teams; U13 – depending on the fixture list they have 6 mixed teams or 4 boys’ teams/2 girls’ teams Fixtures 112. Local fixtures against Trent College are well established.

Witham Hall on a Saturday is a favourite among the pupils too.

All teams play on a Wednesday with some games on a Saturday.

The Saturday programme features games against other independent schools but also local clubs. A recent addition v Plumtree CC featuring longer format games has been a great success Facilities 3 indoor nets, 4 outdoor artificial nets, 3 grass wickets for hardball cricket, 6 pitches for

softball cricket, access to Repton senior pitches Club/county affiliation Link with local clubs Plumtree, Ticknall and Swarkstone and local state school primary school fixtures Best prospect Rion Dalugoda, Lancashire U13/U15; Ralph Jones; James Danson, Lancashire U12 captain. All have been representing the senior school at U14/U15 Brief history The school has a strong history and tradition of cricket, with an extensive fixture calendar list for the summer for both boys and girls Cultural cricketers Tom Chambers (actor), Will Hughes (football),

Georgie Twigg (hockey) What sets the school apart?

Opportunities are provided for all children to enjoy and develop a love for cricket. During the summer term, everybody has an opportunity to play in one of a multitude of teams.

Those more able players benefit from a comprehensive winter programme that leads into a competitive fixtures programme in the summer term.

Additional opportunities for U13s cricketers include being able to attend Repton senior school tours, competitive matches, dedicated strength and conditioning sessions and during their after-school

programme. A through-school philosophy is developing Finest moment on the field Third Place in the National Finals 2024 Recent progress Senior school player pathway led by Speight. A comprehensive winter programme for talented cricketers across the school. Dedicated small group and 1-2-1 sessions. Running alongside curriculum lessons throughout the whole winter and spring Future plans Continuing of the player pathway as mentioned above.

Additional U11 and U13 tours. State school primary and secondary cricket festivals

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TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

RGS THE GRANGE // ROKEBY SCHOOL

RGS THE GRANGE

Club/county affiliation Offer all facilities to the Worcestershire and Wyre Grange Ln, Claines, Forest Partnership. They Worcester WR3 7RR use the school astro to run a cricket outreach event Established 1291 each year. As a school, RGS Number of pupils 375 Dave Bousfield The Grange also offer a Professional Liam Smith Senior assistant (Worcestershire) head co-curricular different cricket outreach and partnerships each year to over 60 local Senior assistant head primary school children. co‑curricular and The school run a range of different partnerships David Bousfield outreach events Teams 30 Brief history Since 2010 the school Fixtures 127 across the season from have grown the opportunity for Year 3-6. The block fixture v Blue all children to take part in school Coat Birmingham has all boys and all cricket, fixtures and training. All girls out playing across 12 pitches children get many opportunities Facilities 6 hardball cricket squares, during the term to take part. With 5 outdoor cricket nets (3 nets using the most able teams the school astro with pull-out net system); 5 have managed to win the National softball cricket areas; marquee used U11 Hardball competition once all year for both bowling and batting (2018) and lost in the final in 2023. sessions. RGS Worcester coaches They have also continued to make coach the girls from January where the regional finals for the last 5 they travel to RGS Worcester and use years. Cricket continues to improve their indoor spaces which includes under the new partnership with nets and large sports hall. RGS The RGS Worcester, with both schools Grange also run tournaments and utilising their own experiences festivals at RGS Worcester’s 1st XI Cultural cricketers Tim Curtis, venue, including the girls U11 County Phil Newport, Nathan Newport and Cricket Tournament which is unique

Imran Khan have played at the school Finest moment on the field Winning the U11 Hardball Pairs Competition at Oakham School in a very exciting final. That year group were leaving Year 13 in 2025 and still talked about the game Recent progress Female staff becoming confident at delivering

and scoring after an initial fear. The general feeling across the school is a love of cricket, seeing boys and girls have the opportunity to play in the same teams, giving girls the chance to demonstrate equal skills to the boys, which is important at this age Future plans An indoor sports centre is on the development plan

(on five occasions) by the 1st VI. The 1st XI have won the Surrey Prep Schools Cup on three occasions and the Surrey Schools Cricket Association Cup twice. U11As have won the SPS Cup on two occasions and the SSCA Cup once. They have reached the National Finals of the ESCA 8-a-side competition on three occasions in the last nine years, with pride of place going to the 2011

team crowned National Champions, beating Millfield in the semi-final and Sedbergh in the final Cultural cricketers Oliver Reed and Richard Briers (actors) Finest moment on the field 2011 U11 8-a-side team winning the National title Recent progress 4 members of staff completed ECB qualifications Tours Sri Lanka 2026

ROKEBY SCHOOL

pitch. During a normal week, eight separate games sessions take place at RSG. Fixtures George Rd, Kingston upon are played on Saturdays.

Thames, Surrey KT2 7PB Also 2 astroturf nets at RSG Club/county affiliation Established 1877 (moved A flourishing community from Wimbledon to outreach programme with Kingston in 1965) several local state primary Number of pupils 400 schools Master in charge Rob Williams Best prospect 2024 1st XI Rob Williams Master in charge captain Caspar Broadrick Professional Andy (Middlesex U13) received a cricket Gannaway (Hampshire scholarship to St John’s, Leatherhead age‑group coach) Teams 1st XI, U15AB, U14A, U13ABC, Cricketers of note Joe Porter (Surrey) U12AB, U11AB, U10AB, U9AB, U8AB Brief history Prior to moving to Fixtures 137 in 2024. Block fixtures Kingston in 1965, cricket records Shrewsbury House, Parkside, Aldro, are thin. Wimbledon Common was St Paul’s, Cranmore used as a venue but most matches Facilities A multi-purpose hall used were staged away from Rokeby. for indoor work during winter and 3 There is a framed scorecard from the astroturf nets at the school site on early 1970s of Donhead dismissing George Road. Nets and astroturf site used for training throughout the latter Rokeby at U11 level for 0. Cricket took off after an alliance was struck part of the spring term and entire with Malden Wanderers in 1985. summer term. Pre-school training Numerous competitions have since three days a week and post-school been won including the Charterhouse training four days a week. Rokeby Sixes by the U10s, the Wellington Sports Grounds are 10 minutes’ College Sixes (on three occasions) coach drive from the school. 4 cricket by the U11s and the Rokeby Sixes squares all of which have an astroturf 168 | thecricketer.com

SEDBERGH PREP SCHOOL

SEDBERGH PREP SCHOOL Casterton, Kirkby Lonsdale, Carnforth LA6 2SG Established 1525 Number of pupils 180 Director of sport Rupert Bunday Professional James Anyon (director of cricket) Teams U9 (3 mixed teams); U11 (3 boys’ teams and 2 girls’ teams); U13 (3 boys’ and 4 girls’) Fixtures Approximately 65 games played in 2025. Most notable fixtures U13 Girls v Cumbria U13 Girls and U12 Boys v Cleveland Schools U12 Boys, plus IAPS competitions Facilities 3 indoor nets, 2 outdoor astro nets, 1 square and they use the local club at Kirkby Lonsdale for an alternative home ground. They also play at Sedbergh School on their Akay and Cemetery pitches Club/county affiliation Cumbria Cricket use the indoor nets over winter for their South Lakes District training U13 and U11. This allows boarders to attend these sessions.

Kirkby Lonsdale CC use school facilities for winter nets and the

school coaching staff supported them with kit, facilities and coaching to get their first women’s section up and running Best prospect Year 7 Digby Mycielski is a left-handed allrounder who plays club cricket at Burneside and for South Lakes

Cricketers of note Tom Aspinwall (Lancashire, Manchester Originals & England U19) Brief history In the 12 years since the prep school was founded, boys played cricket annually each summer term and the girls have just completed their third season of

cricket as their main summer sport. In this time the U13 boys have reached the North finals 6 times, the U11 boys won the Cumbria hardball tournament this year and came third in the North, and U13 girls reached the national indoor finals at Lord’s in 2023 and the regional final in 2024 and 2025. U13 girls reached the quarter-final of the IAPS tournament this year Finest moment on the field U13 girls reaching the national indoor cricket final at Lord’s in 2023, one year after cricket became the No.1 sport for girls in the summer term Recent progress The U9s played mixed cricket all season – having an equal amount of training and gametime at the very start Future plans Strengthen cricket links with local primary schools and smaller prep schools, running taster sessions and mixed tournaments to make the sport accessible to all abilities and experiences Tours U13 boys and girls went on tour to the East of England playing Witham Hall and Kimbolton, with victories in both games

Playing Cricket at RGS The Grange is really special. I have learned so much from my coaches and teammates.

- Current RGS The Grange pupil

Bringing out the brilliant in each and every boy We hold regular Headmaster’s Coffee Mornings and Open Mornings. Please visit our website for the latest dates. www.rokebyschool.co.uk | 020 8942 2247 | admissions@rokeby.org.uk School bus service from Wimbledon, Putney, Southfields and Merton Park

RGS The Grange - Nursery/Prep School 2 - 11 years Leading Independent Education in the West Midlands

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TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

SHREWSBURY HOUSE SCHOOL

107 Ditton Rd, Surbiton, Surrey KT6 6RL Established 1865 Number of pupils 321 Head of cricket Danny Baker Teams Around 50 Girls’ cricket All-boys’ school Fixtures Over 200

SPRATTON HALL Smith St, Spratton, Northamptonshire NN6 8HP Established 1951 Number of pupils 400 Director of sport Gareth Barnard Head of boys’ games Oliver Woodhouse Head of girls’ games Jess Clarke Head of junior cricket Toby Cowley Teams 25 – mixed boys and girls from Year 3-6 then split Year 7 and 8 teams Fixtures Over 200 fixtures with Witham, Bilton Grange and Oundle offering fixtures for all pupils Facilities 8 outdoor astro nets, 10 grass wickets, 6 astro wickets and an indoor sports dome for wet-weather training Club/county affiliation Overstone Park, Brixworth and East Haddon CCs, Northamptonshire CCC and Leicestershire CCC Best prospects Bessie Sanders (offspinner, Northants U13) Bertie Edwards (allrounder), Arthur Westaway (allrounder, District U13s) Brief history Cricket has been played at Spratton Hall since 1951.

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SHREWSBURY HOUSE SCHOOL // SPRATTON HALL

Facilities Brand-new re-laid 3G artificial surface with latest technology supporting boys to play all year round. 4 indoor nets with bowling machines as well 10 minutes up the road at Shrewsbury House Sports Ground (outdoor nets on both sites), plus use of Chessington CC Club/county affiliation Primary Festival of Sport supports local primary schools access facilities, high

quality coaching and sports for the first time and cricket is a mainstay of that. They are looking into a pre-school festival where the boys can be inspired and aware of the cricketing opportunities that are at their disposal Best prospects Joe Crowley and Jack Bailey have potential appearances next year in the 1st XI. Both are talented legspinners who hit the ball hard and are involved in the county set-up at Surrey and Middlesex. James Watt is a swashbuckling batter whio bowls with pace. He was spotted by the Surrey U10 performance pathway Brief history Cricket has been played at SHS since at least 1897. In 1899, an old boy, Claude Jupp, played for Surbiton CC against MCC and was caught off the bowling of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The first interschool match was in 1897 against Sydenham School. In 1903 the 1st XI won all eight of their fixtures. Cricket continued during the wars. During

World War II, when half the school moved to Devon, the ‘two schools’ played against each other. Cricket continued to grow through the 1970s and ’80s and one of the most crushing victories came in 1986 when SHS scored 130 for 4 against Rokeby and bowled them out for 11 Cultural cricketers Lord MacLaurin, Stirling Moss Finest moment on the field This year, the boys won both U9 Downsend competition and U10 Caterham competitions against strong opposition. The boys have won competitions at Tonbridge School and won six out of six in the 2024 U11 festival at Harrow. Won Winchester U12 tournament in 2017 and 2018; winners of Surrey Prep Schools Cup 8 times; Surrey Watcyn Evans Cup 4 times; Tonbridge U11 Tournament 4 times; Wellington U11 Tournament 3 times Recent progress Tour of St Lucia.

SHS boys officiate house matches Future plans A points system competition allowing even more boys the chance for further hardball opportunities Tours Caribbean 2027/28

Girls began playing cricket instead of rounders in 2017 with the school mixing boys and girls teams in 2021 for Years 3-6. Cricket is played in all age groups from Year 2-8 with matches starting in Year 3 Cultural cricketers Harry Mallinder (Northampton Saints and England Rugby), Toby Cousins (Northampton Saints and England Rugby), Robbie Povey (Canada Rugby), Max Fryatt (All-Blacks Schools), Tenniel Evans (Actor), Mark Haddon (Actor),

Michael Ellis (MP) Finest moment on the field 1st XI boys unbeaten season in 2017; 1st XI girls indoor county champions; and competed in the nationals at Cambridge University. Winning the National Lady Taverners U13 indoor competition Recent progress With the school mixing boys and girls from Years 3-6 a few years ago, it now feels the norm that boys and girls compete and train alongside each other. They

are seeing more and more girls in the top teams winning matches for the school. Staff training and involvement has improved so much that they now have a decent staff team Future plans Next year there will be more clubs during the autumn and spring terms to ensure all of the pupils can hit the ground running at the start of the season Tours Mixed Year 8 tour to Norfolk this summer to play against Langley School and Gresham’s

ST ANDREW’S PREP // ST PETER’S, YORK 8-13

ST PETER’S YORK, 8-13 Clifton, York YO30 6AB

ST ANDREW’S PREP

Sussex Cricket Foundation as a number of their players are involved in the district and county Meads St, Eastbourne, pathway programme East Sussex BN20 7RP and sponsor East Dean CC – a small, local club Established 1877 which focuses on junior Number of pupils 257 development Director of cricket Best prospect A few Matilda Callaghan county players in Year 4-7 (Eastbourne College) Mark Tomsett Professional for both boys and girls Professional Mark Brief history Cricket is Tomsett (St Andrew’s Prep the main summer sport played at St 1st XI coach) Andrew’s Prep for both boys and girls.

Teams Year 5 & 6 (4 boys’ and 4 girls’ With the introduction of girls’ cricket teams) Year 7 & 8 (5 boys’ and 5 girls’ in 2020, they now boast more than 18 teams) teams and 110 fixtures a season. The Fixtures Over 110. They worked boys were Sussex U12 Champions towards the IAPS Tournaments. U13 in 2017. In 2018, as a boys and girls also enter result of winning into the County Cup the Sussex Cup, competitions which the school were involves state schools entered into the Bunbury Facilities Sports hall U13 National Cup as Sussex with 4 indoor nets. representatives. The girls won 3 prepared pitches the Lambrook Festival last on-site. Access to year and U11 were runners up at further 6 prepared the Regional IAPS last year pitches off site. Access to Finest moment on the field Eastbourne College, where IAPS National Finalists and there are 8 outdoor nets for County Cup winners games lessons Recent progress Girls’ Club/county affiliation cricket 1st XI, 2nd XI, U11A The school have very close and B all playing hardball links with Eastbourne CC now in fixtures as a number of our pupils Future plans More links play for them. They offer with Eastbourne College out sports hall and indoor to offer an all-year-round nets for winter training for programme with lots of Eastbourne CC. They pre-season activities also have links with

Established 1876 Number of pupils 380 Head of cricket Gareth Sharp Teams 15 Fixtures On average 12-15 fixtures for the prep school. Notable fixtures with Aysgarth, Terrington Hall, QEGS Wakefield, RGS Newcastle, Woodhouse Grove Facilities 2 4-lane sports halls; 2 junior bowling machines; 3 turf and 1 astro ground; several areas for small-sided games for junior softball cricket. Access to ECB Level 4, 3 and 2 coaches Club/county affiliation Close afflilation with York CC and Clifton Alliance CC. The school cricket facilities are let-out to local clubs, hubs, and coaching academy groups, all-year-round. The school run Junior Cricket Camps in the winter and summer for local children to learn and engage with the game Best prospect Several Year 7 and 8 pupils show great promise: Rayaan Ahmed, Sam Nellist, Jack Bennett and Zac Powell all in the Yorkshire pathway Cricketers of note Jonny Bairstow was at the prep school in its previous guise as St Olave’s Brief history Founded in 1876, the school was acquired by St Peter’s

(founded 627 AD) in 1901. St Olave’s was renamed St Peter’s 8-13 in 2020.

The prep school is located on the lower campus of St Peter’s and shares all cricket and other sporting facilities with the senior school. PE and Games staff also work across both sites and age groups from U9U18 which allows for some excellent cohesion and allows the ability to establish long-term investment processes for all pupils’ sporting development Finest moment on the field As St Olave’s, the school won the U13 IAPS (the old JET Cup) 4 times in 2002, 2012, 2018 and 2019, making Finals Day another 3 times as runners-up in 2011, and coming third in 2014 and fourth in 2015. This year’s U13 side were in the 2025 U13 Bunbury Cup semi-final, playing Worksop for a place in the National Final at Oakham Recent progress The Super8s format established at St Olave’s in 2012 continues to develop and grow in popularity and is now the go-to format for all junior girls’ cricket on St Peter’s circuit. The girls’ programme continues to gain traction and their lunchtime IPL (Indoor Premier League) has had a reboot and is back on the lunchtime clubs list and as popular as ever Future plans Indoor Cricket Centre for 2027 Tours U13 boys and girls tour due in 2027

thecricketer.com | 171

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

TAUNTON PREP SCHOOL Staplegrove Rd, Taunton, Somerset TA2 6AD Established 1847 Number of pupils 410 Director of cricket Peter Sanderson Professionals Marcus Trescothick (Somerset & England); Dave Roberts (in charge of girls’ cricket) Teams 37 across 6 age groups Fixtures On Wednesdays all teams play fixtures or have internal cup competitions including the girls.

Teams play in National and/or County

Cup competitions from Year 5-8 Facilities The equivalent of 12 grass and 9 outdoor artificials nets, increased with building of a MultiUse Games Area (with 6 fully artificial lanes). Taunton has 6 grounds for cricket but also uses 5 extra pitches not on proper squares. These facilities are used by Somerset Academy and youth teams as well as local clubs sponsored by Taunton School. Indoor 7 net lanes in two different halls. 3 bowling machines for indoor and outdoor use including a Merlyn Club/county affiliation Strong links with local clubs and helps with their

TAUNTON PREP SCHOOL // THE NEW BEACON

coaching as well as access to facilities.

Outreach at local schools and run competitions for them indoors and outdoors as well as allowing them to use the facilities after school.

The prep play local primary schools in friendly matches. The school also supports south-west counties by hosting matches and running coaching sessions, particularly Cornwall Best prospect Lewis Walters, an exciting allrounder in Year 8 who plays for Somerset and is a captain of the prep school 1st XI and a regular in the senior schools U14s. His sister Erin

also represents Somerset girls’ teams and plays four years up in the U15s, where she was a leading bowler Cricketers of note Tom Abell, Jodie Dibble, Aftab Habib, Jack White, Tom Jameson, Piran Holloway, Adam Dibble, Ricky Bartlett, Alan Marshall and Nick Pringle Brief history The prep school was added in 1990 and the international school in place for 15 years. Taunton prides itself on the genuine mix of academia and co-curriculum activities, with sport being prominent.

Provides programmes for elite players as well C/3rd XI players. Taunton has increased in size over the years and improved facilities. Since Covid a new dining hall, extra boarding houses, sporting facilities, recently two new hockey pitches and an all-weather cricket practice area Cultural cricketers Geoffrey Cox and Jeremy Wright (MPs and attorney-generals), Alan Gibson (cricket writer) Finest moment on the field Competing in U13s National Cup after winning 2024 County Cup Recent progress Introduction of a girls’ lead coach

Joe Choong (modern pentathlete) Finest moment on the field Making the final or winning the Summers Cup 15 years in a row Recent progress Teaching gap students how to score and them enjoying it! More staff feeling confident with teaching cricket.

Widening the radius of opposition teams. Playing against girls/mixed teams more regularly

Future plans Hoping to install indoor nets. More fixtures against mixed schools. Working with Kent Invicta to bring local expert coaching into the school. More Super Sporting Saturdays for the community Tours Isle of Wight tour due in April 2025 – a great success to be repeated next year – possibly combined with sailing

THE NEW BEACON

Club/county affiliation The school is part of the Skinners’ Company. The Brittains Ln, Sevenoaks, school run Super Sporting Kent TN13 2PB Saturday, a free hands-on event for local primary Established 1900 schools where children Number of pupils 305 Owen Herbert have the opportunity to try Head of cricket Head of cricket a variety of sports Owen Herbert Best prospect Alisdair McKinleyTeams 22 Rowe, sports scholar to Fixtures Over 100. Summer Cup, Tonbridge School and plays Thomas Cup the most notable for Kent age-groups Facilities 2 grass nets, an astro Cricketers of note with 2 pitches, 3 grass wickets, Zak Crawley, Sam Billings looking to install (Kent & England) indoor nets Brief history Boys have played cricket as one of the main sports since the school was founded 125 years ago. They have always provided players to regional and national teams and the school are immensely proud to have had two Old Boys (Crawley and Billings) play a Test match together on the same day. The boys here live and breathe cricket as do many of the staff – it is in their blood Cultural cricketers Ben Earl (rugby union), Siegfried Sassoon (war poet), Vice-Admiral Tim Laurence, 172 | thecricketer.com

THE PILGRIMS’ SCHOOL

THE PILGRIMS’ SCHOOL

Best prospect Year 6 Alexander Steen. Playing for St Cross, Winchester and Hampshire junior pathways, 3 The Close, Winchester, he has a fantastic passion Hampshire SO23 9LT for the game. A top-order batter, seamer who has kept Established 1931 Myles Greenwood wicket occasionally. He has Number of pupils 232 Director of Sport taken over as Colts captain Director of sport and will be one of only a Myles Greenwood couple of Year 7s playing for the 1st XI Teams 15. 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th in 2026 XI. Colts AB. Foals ABC, U9ABC, Brief history Traditionally an allU8ABC boys’ school, cricket has long since Girls’ cricket All-boys’ school been a major sport at the school.

Fixtures 65. Twyford School the All boys represent the school biggest rivalry throughout the summer term Facilities 5 artificial nets, 3 pitches through a comprehensive fixture (2 artificial, 1 grass). After a recent list. A new 1st XI pavilion was merger with Winchester College, installed after the sad passing of Pilgrims’ have access to their Gater Alex Halliday (master in charge Field with 2 artificial pitches, and to 2007-18) Meads, a grass wicket. Community Cultural cricketers Jon Snow link with St Cross CCC, where (newsreader) many boys play club cricket, and Finest moment on the field Year 7 where the school have access to an pupil Elliot Noori scoring a wellartificial wicket judged 71 v Farleigh at the start of the Club/county affiliation 2025 season, an innings of positivity Community outreach cricket days and controlled tempo have been planned, inviting 6/7 local Recent progress The school are primary schools to a match and pleased to have made progress on training at Pilgrims’

the grass wicket for the 1st XI at the school grounds, but are grateful to use the Winchester College grounds.

They have rolled out more coaching resources in staff training to help up-skill and moved majority of staff to electronic scoring Future plans They are excited for their merger with Winchester College, which will allow the school to benefit from wonderful facilities,

enhance the strong relationship with College staff, and enable the school to up-skill their own staff.

The school will continue with its outreach projects and keep the link with St Cross Tours Sri Lanka 2019. The two squads were fielded from boys in Years 6-8. They played in four matches, including one at Galle International Cricket Stadium

TO BE A SPORTSMAN TO BE A PILGRIM TO FIND OUT MORE BOOK A SCHOOL VISIT

READY FOR CRICKET Supportive and dedicated staff, inspiring players at every stage Outstanding facilities 12 competitive teams playing at local and national levels Many of our pupils proudly represent while two of our Old Boys are Kent whlie current England players Specialist coaching delivered by school staff and Invicta Cricket Coaching

Independent Day & Boarding Prep School for boys aged 2-13 years | Co-ed Nursery for girls and boys aged 2-4 years | Sevenoaks

“A fine school in which the musical, the sporty and the clever boy will positively flourish.”

The Good Schools Guide

Please contact our Registrar to arrange your visit Email: admissions@pilgrims-school.co.uk

The Pilgrims’ School, Winchester Day and boarding for boys aged 4-13

www.thepilgrims-school.co.uk

TOP 50 PREP/JUNIOR SCHOOLS

TWYFORD SCHOOL // WEST HOUSE SCHOOL

WEST HOUSE SCHOOL 24 St James Rd, Birmingham B15 2NX

TWYFORD SCHOOL Twyford, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 1NW Established 1809 Number of pupils 420 Director of sport Gregg Lewis Teams 18 boys: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, 4th XI, U12AB, Colts ABC, U10ABC, U9ABC, U8ABC. 12 girls: 1st XI, 2nd XI, 3rd XI, U11AB, U10ABC, U9AB, U8AB Fixtures A notable addition this year is group fixtures for 11 mixed teams against Elstree, now they are co-ed. U13 boys faced Exeter School in the National Cup Regional Final.

U12 boys made the Hampshire County Cup final Facilities 8 ovals including 2 new astroturf wickets constructed by Durant last winter, 1 astroturf for U8/U9 matches, 4 outdoor nets (all-weather surface upgraded and installed by Durant in 2023/24), 2 indoor nets in sports hall Club/county affiliation Hampshire CCC, with a regular fixture with their younger squads.

Many boys and girls are part of county and regional performance centre/district cricket). Year 5 and 6 enjoy a fixture against local primary school Twyford St Mary’s. Year 3 also fielded a mixed U8 team v Twyford St Mary’s. Ground exchange with Twyford CC. Many pupils play at local clubs including St Cross, Fair Oak, Easton & Martyr Worthy, Ropley 174 | thecricketer.com

Best prospects Eliza Bristowe is in Hampshire women’s county elite player pathway and plays two agegroups above. Sixth-former Poppy White also with Hampshire Cricketers of note Joe Weatherley, Felix Organ, Jimmy Adams, Dom Kelly (all Hampshire). Kelly went with England to 2024 Under-19 World Cup Brief history Twyford School claims to be the oldest prep school in the country and cricket has been played through its 200-year history. The school just celebrated 165 years of competitive cricket. Lewis Carroll had brothers at the school and took a portrait of the 1st XI in 1858. Harold McDonnell (headmaster 1910–37), himself an Old Twyfordian, played for Hampshire CCC while head.

The current pitch was levelled and enlarged in the late 1980s. Court cricket is the breaktime version played with a tapeball and its own rules Cultural cricketers Lucia Kendall (daughter of Will Kendall, Hampshire) represented Hampshire Women before taking up a professional contract at Southampton FC women. Lord Douglas Hurd, Brian Trubshaw (first Concorde pilot), Simon Chambers (owner of Storm Model agency) Finest moment on the field First win at national level, as ESCA U11 8-a-side national champions in 2014, retained in 2015 and 2019 Future plans Offer after-school cricket club through the year

Established 1895 Number of pupils 350 Director of cricket Naheem Sajjad Teams U11ABCD, U10ABCD, U9ABCDE, UABCDE Girls’ cricket An all-boys’ school Fixtures A & B teams play up to 10 fixtures per season with C, D and E playing 5-6 fixtures. U11As play an annual match against the Year 7 team at King Edward’s School, Birmingham Facilities Two indoor nets and two new outdoor nets and bowling machine. Two cricket grounds including a well-equipped club standard facility Club/county affiliation The main cricket ground is also home to Harborne CC girls’ section and the home venue for Harborne CC playing in the Worcestershire League. The school supports the development of junior and youth cricket at Harborne through the provision of coaches and

sponsorship Cricketers of note Ron Maudsley, Robin Dyer, Simon Green (all Warwickshire), Harry Boam (Wellington, New Zealand U19) Brief history Against the backdrop of the report from the Independent Commission for Equity in Cricket, West House is a city prep school educating boys whose families often make significant sacrifices to send their sons. This school’s reputation is founded on the people who work within it or are associated with it. Within the context of the cricket there is a huge example of encouragement, inclusion, diversity and the success that come with the approach adopted and the building of meaningful partnerships that can benefit the entire community Cultural cricketers No fewer than 9 Lord Mayors of Birmingham, 6 members of the Cadbury family, Chaneil Kular (actor), Soweto Kinch (musician) Recent progress Continued investment in the facilities and strengthening of relationship with Harborne CC

WESTBOURNE HOUSE SCHOOL

WESTBOURNE HOUSE SCHOOL

pathway. Mimi Gaff, Elsie Bailey and EJ Ayton are all talented U11 girl cricketers Coach Rd, Chichester Cricketers of note PO20 2BH Charlie Tear (Scotland & Sussex), Holly Colvin Established 1907 Clare Cook & (England Women) Number of pupils 350 Brandon Hanley Brief history Head of boys’ sport Heads of Sport Westbourne House was Brandon Hanley an all-boys boarding Head of girls’ sport Clare school of 160 pupils with a small Cook fixture list, which has grown over the Teams 28 years to include many leading public Fixtures Each team averages 6 or 7 schools including Brighton College matches, not including inter-house and Cranleigh. Regularly provide matches or tournaments. Highfield high numbers of players for district and Twyford the most notable and county squads in Sussex and Facilities Readily available 6 outdoor Hampshire. They have welcomed nets, 4 indoor nets, 6 astro wickets Alastair Cook and Colin Cowdrey to and 6 grass wickets the school, while the grounds have Club/county affiliation Chichester hosted a Former England XI v Duke CC use the facilities at least twice a of Richmond’s XI. The Shopwyke week to run training evenings and Strollers are the prep school old boy junior matches XI. Cricket is in the air with the nets in Best prospects George Hobkirk, a use from dawn until dusk, and rumble talented bowling allrounder in the of cricket bags heading towards 13 Sussex pathway. Rupert Gillett, a pitches gloriously punctuating the talented batting allrounder in the school day Hampshire pathway. Jonty HigginsCultural cricketers Tom Bradby Drysdale, a wicketkeeper/batter with excellent technique in the Hampshire (ITN newsreader) made a fifty in the

1st XI, Marcus Brigstocke (comedian), Nick Clarke (presenter and journalist), Alastair MacKenzie (actor and 1st XI scorer), Tom Newton Dunn (political journalist) Finest moment on the field Winners multiple times of the Hayland Trophy at U11 and U13 in the 1990s and early 2000s. In 2022 they reached IAPS National cricket Finals Day, finishing third. U11 girls won IAPS in 2025

Recent progress More boys and girls are reaching the level to play hardball cricket, helped by new astroturf wickets. Increased numbers in county pathways – up to 16 now Future plans Invest in new pitches to cope with demand for girls’ hardball.

A local community programme involving inviting youngsters, indoors and outdoors, plus free coaching Tours February 2026 Durban with Year 8, 13th tour to South Africa

Think.

Thrive.

Trailblaze.

CHICHESTER

Cothill is one of the UK’s leading co-educational prep schools for pupils aged 7 to 13 Cricket is a way of life at Cothill - our dedicated coaching programme, outstanding facilities and sporting tradition prepare children not only for top senior schools but for life beyond the boundary.

“EXCELLENT IN ALL AREAS” ISI INSPECTION 2023 Cothill, Oxfordshire, OX13 6JL | 01865 966100 | @cothillschool | www.cothill.org.uk

SCAN & discover

Where curious minds and big hearts grow.

At Westbourne House School, children don’t just think and thrive - they trailblaze.

SCHOOLS GUIDE 2026

Highly commended

The following schools entered a submission to The Cricketer Schools Guide 2026 but unfortunately just missed out on the top 100, top 50, top 25 or top 20. However, their cricket programme has been highly commended and we look forward to hearing of their progress in the future Top 100 Senior Schools Ampleforth College Ashford School Barnard Castle School Bloxham School Burford School Canford School Cheadle Hulme School Chigwell School Churcher’s College Collegiate School Dollar Academy Gosfield School Hill House School Hurstpierpoint College Kent College, Canterbury Kirkham Grammar School Leicester Grammar School

Loretto School Loughborough Grammar School Mill Hill School Reading Blue Coat School Royal Russell School Stonyhurst College The Leys School The Oratory School The Portsmouth Grammar School The Royal Grammar School, Worcester Wellingborough School Wellington School Westbrook Hay Woodbridge School Woodhouse Grove Wycliffe College

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Top 25 State Schools Gordon’s School Saint Francis Xavier Sixth Form College Tiffin School

Top All-girls’ Schools St Catherine’s School, Bramley

Top 50 Prep Schools Abingdon Prep School Ashford Prep School Beaudesert Park School Clifton College Prep Feltonfleet Prep School Fettes College Prep School

Gresham’s Prep School Holmewood House Hurstpierpoint College Prep Knightsbridge School Newcastle-under-Lyme Prep Old Buckenham Hall Scarborough College Prep St Hugh’s School St Neot’s Prep School Stamford Junior School Summer Fields School The Elms The Prep at Denstone College

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INDEX Top 100 senior schools Abingdon School..................................23 AKS Lytham...........................................24 Ardingly College...................................26 Bede’s School.........................................28 Bedford School.....................................29 Berkhamsted School............................31 Bishop’s Stortford College..................31 Blundell’s School..................................32 Bradfield College..................................32 Brentwood School............................... 33 Brighton College...................................34 Bromsgrove School..............................36 Caterham School.................................36 Charterhouse.........................................37 Cheltenham College...........................39 Christ College, Brecon........................39 Clayesmore School............................. 40 Clifton College..................................... 40 Cranleigh School.................................. 41 Denstone College................................ 41 Dulwich College....................................42 Dunottar School...................................42 Durham Schools...................................43 Eastbourne College.............................43 Ellesmere College................................ 44 Eltham College..................................... 44 Emanuel School....................................45 Epsom College......................................47 Eton College...........................................47 Felsted School...................................... 48 Forest School........................................ 50 Framlingham College...........................51 George Watson’s College..................53 Gresham’s School.................................53 Haberdashers’ Boys’ School.............54 Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools................................................54 Haileybury..............................................55 Hampton School..................................56 Harrow School.......................................58 Ipswich School......................................59 John Lyon School................................. 61 Kimbolton School................................ 61 King Edward VI School, Southampton....................................62 King Edward’s School, Birmingham.......................................62 King Edward’s Witley...........................63 King’s Bruton..........................................65 King’s College School, Wimbledon........................................65 King’s College Taunton...................... 66 Kingswood School, Bath................... 66 Lancing College....................................67 Lord Wandsworth College................67 Magdalen College School................. 69 Malvern College................................... 69 Marlborough College......................... 70

Merchant Taylors’ School, Northwood.........................................71 Millfield School.....................................73 New Hall School...................................73 Newcastle-under-Lyme-School....74 Norwich School....................................74 Oakham School....................................75 Oundle School......................................75 Queen Ethelburga’s.............................76 Queen’s College, Taunton.................78 Radley College.......................................78 Reed’s School........................................79 Reigate Grammar School..................79 Repton School...................................... 80 Rossall School........................................82 Royal Grammar School, Guildford........................................... 84 Rugby School........................................ 86 Scarborough College...........................87 Seaford College.................................... 89 Sedbergh School................................... 91 Sherborne School................................. 91 Shrewsbury School..............................92 Solihull School...................................... 94 St Albans School.................................. 94 St Benedict’s School............................95 St Edward’s School, Oxford.............. 96 St George’s College, Weybridge..... 96 St Lawrence College........................... 98 St Paul’s School..................................... 99 St Peter’s School, York...................... 101 Stamford School.................................102 Stowe School...................................... 104 Taunton School.................................. 104 The King’s School, Chester.............105 The King’s School in Macclesfield...............................105 The King’s School, Worcester....... 106 The Manchester Grammar School............................................... 106 The Perse School................................107 Tonbridge School...............................107 Trent College....................................... 108 Uppingham School............................ 110 Wellington College.............................112 Whitgift School....................................114 Winchester College............................114 Worksop College.................................115 Worth School........................................115 Wrekin College.................................... 116

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, coaching set-up and commitment to cricket in the curriculum - to determine which should be included in the top 100 senior schools, top 25 state schools, top

178 | thecricketer.com

Top 25 state schools

Top 50 junior/prep schools

Brighton Aldridge Community Academy.......................................... 119 Chislehurst & Sidcup Grammar School................................................ 119 Dr Challoner’s Grammar School...120 George Abbot School.......................120 Huddersfield New College...............121 Myerscough College..........................121 Northampton School for Boys....... 122 Old Swinford Hospital...................... 122 Park View Academy of Sport.......... 123 Queen Mary’s Grammar School, Walsall............................................... 123 Reading School...................................124 Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe.............................. 125 Shenfield High School...................... 125 Simon Langton Grammar School for Boys.............................................126 South Dartmoor Community College..............................................126 St Bartholomew’s School, Newbury........................................... 127 The Bishop’s Stortford High School..................................... 127 The Canterbury Academy..............128 The Castle School, Taunton...........128 The Judd School.................................129 The Skinners’ School.........................129 Wallington County Grammar School................................................130 Weydon School...................................130 Wilson’s School....................................131 Wymondham College........................131

AKS Lytham Prep...............................147 Aldro.......................................................147 Aysgarth School..................................148 Bede’s Prep School.............................148 Bedford Preparatory School...........149 Bishop’s Stortford College Prep School......................................149 Blundell’s Preparatory School........150 Brentwood Preparatory School.....150 Brighton College Prep School.........151 Caldicott School................................. 152 Cargilfield School............................... 152 Clayesmore Prep................................ 153 Cothill House....................................... 153 Cottesmore School............................154 Cranmore School...............................154 Cumnor House Sussex..................... 155 Davenies................................................156 Dragon School.....................................156 Dulwich Prep........................................ 157 Elstree School...................................... 157 Felsted Prep School...........................158 Haberdashers’ Boys’ Prep School................................................158 Heathfield Junior School.................159 Highfield and Brookham School............................................... 160 King’s College Prep........................... 160 Lockers Park......................................... 161 Ludgrove School................................. 161 Merchant Taylors’ Prep School......162 Millfield Prep School.........................162 Milton Keynes Preparatory School................................................163 Nottingham Academy Primary.....163 Orwell Park School.............................164 Packwood School...............................164 Papplewick School.............................165 Prestfelde School...............................166 Queen’s College Prep School Taunton.............................................166 Repton Prep.........................................167 RGS The Grange.................................168 Rokeby School.....................................168 Sedbergh Prep School.......................169 Shrewsbury House School..............170 Spratton Hall........................................170 St Andrew’s Prep..................................171 St Peter’s, York 8-13.............................171 Taunton Prep School......................... 172 The New Beacon................................ 172 The Pilgrims’ School.......................... 173 Twyford School................................... 174 West House School........................... 174 Westbourne House School............ 175

Top 20 all-girls schools Cheltenham Ladies’ College..........134 Denmark Road High School...........134 Downe House School....................... 135 Godolphin & Latymer School........ 135 Guildford High School......................136 King Edward VI High School for Girls..............................................136 Lady Eleanor Holles........................... 137 Loughborough High School........... 137 Malvern St James’..............................138 Mayfield School..................................138 Notting Hill & Ealing High School....139 Portsmouth High School................ 140 Putney High School.......................... 140 Roedean School...................................141 Sherborne Girls’ School...................143 South Hampstead High School.....143 St Helen and St Katharine...............144 St Swithun’s School............................144 The Mary Erskine School.................145 Wimbledon High School.................145

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

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