Tormead Cricket returned to Yorkshire, the county many regard as the home of cricket, for an action-packed four-day tour of training, competitive fixtures and the opportunity to watch the very best in the women’s game at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

Thirty-four pupils and three members of staff set off bright and early on day one for the journey north. After checking into our hotel, the group enjoyed lunch at Wagamama before heading to Headingley for the evening’s highlight – Australia versus Pakistan in the Women’s T20 World Cup. The girls threw themselves into the occasion, cheering every four, six and wicket with such enthusiasm that they regularly appeared on the Sky Sports broadcast! It was a fantastic advert for women’s cricket and an inspiring way to begin the tour ahead of our own fixtures.

Day two began with breakfast before travelling to Ampleforth College for a 90-minute training session. The girls worked hard to develop their batting, bowling and fielding skills before enjoying lunch provided by our hosts. In the afternoon, Tormead fielded three teams against Ampleforth. Congratulations to our U13A team, who produced an excellent all-round performance to win their T20 fixture by 47 runs. The U13B team followed suit with an impressive 30-run victory, while our U13C side, many of whom were playing their first-ever hard-ball match, performed superbly despite a narrow defeat. The team then returned to Leeds to enjoy an evening meal together in Trinity Leeds.

Day three offered a slightly more relaxed start, with time to explore Leeds and enjoy a little retail therapy before travelling to York to face St Peter’s School. The teams played on stunning grounds overlooked by the magnificent York Minster. The U13A team pushed the hosts all the way, taking the match into the final over before narrowly missing out. Meanwhile, the U13B team completed an unbeaten tour with another commanding victory, and the U13C team secured their first win of the tour thanks to a fantastic team performance. The day concluded with dinner at Pizza Express, followed by a stroll through York’s famous Shambles and, of course, well-earned ice creams.

After four memorable days, the squad travelled home with plenty to celebrate. Tour awards were presented over lunch, recognising not only individual performances but also the teamwork, resilience, sportsmanship and enthusiasm shown by every player throughout the week.

The tour was another fantastic success for Tormead Cricket, providing invaluable playing experience, lasting memories and plenty of inspiration for the future. A huge well done to every player for the way they represented the school, both on and off the field. 

George Pettitt, Director of Sport