Prestfelde School’s Under 11s have been crowned English Schools national cricket champions – under the watchful eye of England legend Andrew ‘Freddy’ Flintoff. The school was one of eight from across the country which qualified for the Under 11s Hardball Finals Day at Oakham School.
Flintoff was at the event as his children were playing for Manchester Grammar School, who finished in third place. Prestfelde had enjoyed triumphs against Herefordshire, Warwickshire and Worcestershire along the way, while on the Finals Day itself, they defeated schools from Leicester, Exeter and Harrogate before meeting Summerfield School from Oxford. Taking two early wickets helped keep their opponents in check, and consistent bowling throughout helped restrict them to 47 from their 12 overs. Coach Rob Newey said, “This was a superb team performance from the boys with every player contributing to this outstanding success.
“Several members of the English Schools Cricket Association commented positively with praise for the performance and behaviour of the boys. Jack Home received special praise at the presentation ceremony for his outstanding bowling action.”
