Published on: Friday, September 8, 2023
Earlier in the summer, the King’s College 1st cricket team won the National T20 U18 Cup for the first time, and last Sunday saw the U15 team raise the equivalent championship trophy.
The U15 team played Whitgift School in the semi-final before beating Trent College on Finals Day at Arundel Castle Cricket Club. It was a stunning day at a beautiful venue and a perfect wicket. King’s Captain Zach V won the toss and elected to bat first, using the momentum from the semi-final game. Trent College took the field and within the first over took the important wicket of Rishabh S, who struck a short ball straight to square leg off the bowling of Jordison for no runs. Bertie M and Mathew M rebuilt the early loss and got through the power play without further damage, but it was the introduction of Zach V who took the game away from Trent.
Zach went on to hit an incredible display of power hitting, scoring at a strike rate of 234 which included 7 of the biggest six’s, and finished on 82 off 35 balls. Bertie M who also played an important role scoring 65* off 56 balls, including 7 fours and 1 six. In reply, the King’s bowlers held their nerve and implemented their plans having learned from the previous game. Tom W was the pick of the bowlers, taking 3 wickets for 20 runs off his 4 overs. Harrison P bowled 1 for 12 off 2 overs, with the important wicket of Patel bowling his overs in the power play. George N 2 for 27 and Jago B 1 for 26 off their 4 overs were also the pick of the bowlers. After an exciting match, King’s finally won by 44 runs to become the 2023 national champions.
Head of Cricket, Rob Woodman said: “We have strong cricketers at King’s. I am so proud of what both teams have achieved by becoming National Champions. They played some excellent cricket along the way which includes special team and individual performances. The U18s successfully made it through to three consecutive finals days, so to win this year has made it extra special for those pupils who have played in those previous years. The U15s are an extremely talented side with lots of depth to the squad, which has contributed to their success this year.”
King’s have been a powerhouse in schools cricket for well over a decade now. With their own cricket centre, a number of highly qualified coaches and a programme that is the envy of most schools. Our girls' cricket programme is also flourishing and continues to see more players every year.
Headmaster Mr Michael Sloan reflected: “All of this success a huge testament to the staff who run cricket at the school, particularly Mr Woodman, Mr Parsons and Mr Lewis. and I thank and congratulate them for the culture of enjoyment and success they have established over many years.”
The school works in partnership with Somerset County Cricket Club that allow cross coaching, CPD and sessions with professional coaches. In addition, sports scholarships are available for those entering Third Form and Sixth Form who demonstrate a high level of ability and commitment, and are willing to take leadership responsibilities.
King’s has produced numerous professional cricketers in recent years, many of whom play for major counties and at international level. We have produced 18 professionals in the last 15 years including Jos Buttler (England ODI captain), Will Smeed, Tom Banton and Calvin Harrison who have recently played in the Hundred as well as Nathan Gilchrist and James Rew who have performed brilliantly in the county championship. We also have a number of players who have recently signed professional contracts including Ed Middleton, Eddie Byrom, George Thomas and Will Smale.