very strong Wellington First XI.
“The record of 17 victories from the 22 fixtures highlights the success of the boys on the field,’’ says Mr Clarke. “Particular team highlights were the First XI victory in the last ball against Eastbourne, while the Development XI enjoyed their first ever victory against Wellington. “On their return, many could now not wait to resume cricket as they felt the knowledge and understanding they had gained meant they would play significantly better cricket at home. This summed up the success of the tour. “The boys enjoyed being billeted in Cranbrook and Eastbourne. All the schools were tremendous hosts and this made the events very special,’’ says Mr Clarke. “Being billeted allowed the boys the opportunity to experience English life from a family perspective. “They were so hospitable, it was a really great way to end the tour. Later this year, Cranbrook will tour NZ to play rugby and hockey and we will host them, which is a nice way to repay their hospitality for the past three trips we have made there.’’ While the improvement in cricket was the aim, the experiences and personal development of the boys be with all for many years to come, says Mr Clarke.
“To roam the grounds, the Long Room and changing rooms that have been graced by the world’s best cricketers over the centuries created an environment where the boys understood that cricket in England is a significant part of the culture,’’ says Mr Clarke. “This set a flavour for the experience we were to face at the schools we played.’’ The tough itinerary, including four games on consecutive days, began at Charterhouse. “Despite the boys being aware of the prestigious schools they were to visit, many were wide-eyed when they saw the surrounds of Charterhouse for the first time,’’ says Mr Clarke. “The tour started well with top performances from both the First XI and Development XI. Both gained victories, but the particular highlight was George Blake scoring the first century on the tour. At Cranleigh, a traditional cricketing powerhouse, Ben
Aitken picked up five wickets in the Development fixture.’’ The standard of play at the First XI level was probably the toughest over the three tours, says Mr Clarke. “The boys were challenged because not only were they
prestigious schools, they were also good cricketing schools. However, our boys rose to the occasion, got into the groove and played some excellent cricket.’’ At the Eton fixture, Bailen Thatcher scored a century, a feat he repeated the next day as they beat Radley. The Development XI generally had the upper hand over most of their opponents and many individuals performed well. Ben Aitken picked up another five-wicket bag against Radley, while Kurtis Weeks and Will Macfarlane scored centuries against Eastbourne. Ben Thomson was also able to secure a five-wicket bag against the
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