As the Lent Term ended for most of the school, the boys’ and girls’ First XI squads flew to Kenya for a ten day tour in preparation for the 2026 season.
Fifteen boys, thirteen girls and four members of staff landed in Nairobi to find that the seasonal rains had come early. Despite wet weather and very damp outfields, both teams managed to play their first two fixtures with some excellent performances from Bella C and Ben F, delivering wins for both squads.
The group then headed to Tsavo for two days of safari where they enjoyed eating dinner alongside elephants and hyenas as well as walking next to hippo and crocodile-infested waters. The big cats remained elusive in the dense vegetation, which was much greener than usual due to the wet weather.
Returning to Nairobi, a small number of the group took on the challenge of climbing Mount Longonot. The heat was intense but all made it to the summit of the 2760m mountain and enjoyed incredible views across Lake Naivasha and the Rift Valley. The whole group then spent a fantastic morning visiting two schools and learning about the work of the East African Character Development Trust, which seeks to use cricket to provide opportunities to better the lives of children. The welcome we received was overwhelming from the children and the experience will live long in the memory of the students.
Both teams then returned to the field for two and a half intense days of cricket. The boys continued to produce strong performances against some weaker opposition with Samand K and Adam H scoring impressive fifties. The girls faced stronger opposition including a number of current Kenyan internationals and U19 players. While results did not all go their way, the girls fought hard, with Ameila G producing a brilliant fifty and Charlotte H bowling with skill and control despite being one of the youngest players on the trip.
All players and coaches returned safely to the UK with huge positives to take into the summer along with memories that will remain with them throughout their lives.
