latest news 13 July 2025
Double Triumph at Lord’s: Rugby School Wins Both U18 National Cricket Finals
Rugby School celebrated an extraordinary day at Lord’s on Tuesday, 1 July, as both the Girls’ and Boys’ 1st XI teams were crowned U18 National Cup champions – claiming the most prestigious prize in UK schools cricket.
In the U18 Girls’ 100-Ball final, Rugby delivered a dominant performance against Barton Peveril Sixth Form College. Amu Surenkumar starred with a match-winning all-round display, scoring 51 off 41 balls and taking 4 wickets for just 16 runs, including a sensational all-bowled hat-trick from the iconic Pavilion End. She was superbly supported by spin duo Florrie McKenna (2–17) and Niamh Robertson-Jack (1–16), while the team’s sharp and committed fielding helped maintain relentless pressure throughout.
As the girls received their trophy in the historic Long Room, Rugby’s Boys’ 1st XI began their T20 final against Clifton College. Bowling first, Harry Thompson struck in his opening over to give Rugby an early breakthrough. Jack Pidgeon followed with an exceptional spell, taking 4 for 16 from his full quota of 4 overs—an effort that dismantled Clifton’s top order. The boys, like the girls, backed their bowlers with a brilliant and disciplined fielding display.
Player of the Match Rory Grant then guided the chase with a composed 65 from 43 balls, including five sixes, building on his match-winning semi-final knock against reigning champions St Peter’s, York. Captain Jordan Strydom wrapped up the game in emphatic style with three towering sixes, sealing an eight-wicket victory.
On the eve of both finals, the Rugby School teams were presented with their Finals shirts in a special moment led by former student and Rugbeian Jacob Bethell – now playing for Warwickshire, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and England. A heartfelt video message from fellow Rugbeian Maia Bouchier – currently representing Hampshire, Southern Brave, and England – added further inspiration. Their words and presence proved to be the perfect motivation for both squads heading into the biggest matches of their season.
Debbie Skene, Director of Sport at Rugby School, said:
“I am incredibly proud of both our teams – all Sports Scholars – for their thrilling victories, especially in such punishing heat. Their skill, teamwork, and especially their fielding intensity were superb. We are lucky to have an exceptional coaching staff, led by Michael Powell, whose hard work and guidance have been instrumental. But ultimately, this day belonged to the students. What a magnificent way to end the School year!”
Michael Powell, Head of Cricket at Rugby School, added:
“I am incredibly proud of all the girls and boys who performed so calmly on the biggest of stages at Lord’s. Every member of the two squads has worked tirelessly this summer and thoroughly deserves to be crowned as National Cup winners. My thanks go to the staff who have ensured the environment is one in which all our cricketers can thrive and be the best version of themselves as people.”
Elena N, Girls Captain, commented:
I want to say a huge thanks to our incredible coaching team who helped make this amazing experience possible!
I am so proud of everything the girls have achieved this year, and in particular how far we have come since I joined the school in F-Block. I know the younger players in the team will continue to push harder and further over the coming years, and I am excited to see where this team can go. The future is bright for girls cricket at Rugby School!”
Image credit: Nick Browning