The cricket season concluded in style with a summer tour during Activities Week, featuring two touring squads: a U13 team made up of Year 7 and 8 pupils, and a U15 team comprising Year 9 and 10 players.

The tour began with a trip to Headingley to watch Day 4 of the thrilling India v England test match. Players and staff were treated to world-class cricket and relished the opportunity to witness some of the sport’s biggest stars in action.

The following day, we travelled to Ampleforth College to compete in the Emereti Schools’ Cup. The U13s took part in two separate competitions, while the U15s played an extended T25 format over two days. The U13s made a flying start, securing victories over Bootham and hosts Ampleforth to win the Day 1 T10 competition. Meanwhile, the U15s also began strongly, with an impressive win over Ampleforth in their opening fixture. The evening featured a BBQ, entertainment, and a restful night in the boarding houses—setting the stage for another full day of cricket.

On Day 2, the U13s faced stiffer opposition but rose to the occasion superbly, defeating Mowden Hall, Durham Cathedral, and Ampleforth to go unbeaten and lift the Emereti Schools’ U13 Cup. The U15s continued their fine form with a dominant victory over Barnard Castle, followed by an outstanding all-round performance against Mayfield School, sealing the title and matching the U13s’ unbeaten run. Both teams celebrated in style that evening, enjoying warm hospitality from our generous hosts at Ampleforth, to whom we are extremely grateful for such a memorable experience.

Cricket continued into Day 4 of the tour. After a relaxing morning at Scarborough Sealife and fish and chips by the sea, the teams played their final fixtures. The U13s travelled to St Peter’s, York for a triangular against the hosts and Scarborough College. They saved their best cricket for last, beating St Peter’s by five wickets and Scarborough by 40 runs to finish the tour unbeaten. The U15s remained on the coast to play Scarborough College in what was their fifth match in four days. Despite a valiant effort, they fell just short in their run chase—an understandable outcome after playing over 200 overs of cricket throughout the tour. Nevertheless, the team can be extremely proud of their performances, teamwork, and determination.

The tour concluded with a celebratory dinner and presentation evening. Georgina M and Eva N were named Top Tourists, with Eve M and Maya M earning Top Run Scorer awards, and Iris D and Gracie R recognised for Best Bowling Figures. Though these individual achievements were celebrated, all players were commended for their effort, progress, and success—losing just one match across all teams against some of the strongest schools in the north of England, a true testament to their quality and commitment.

The final morning saw a cultural conclusion to the tour with Mr Pettitt’s walking tour of York Minster and The Shambles, followed by time exploring the local markets before the long journey home. All players should be proud of their conduct both on and off the pitch, and we are already looking forward to the next cricket tour!