On a damp November morning an expectant group of boys from the 9th and 11th Grades went on a journey of discovery, to understand that quintessentially British game known as cricket! A T20 international had been arranged between Scotland (10th in the world), who were on a winter training camp at La Manga Club, and Spain (49th). Yes, you did read that right, Spain.
Upon our arrival at The European Cricket Centre at La Manga, we met Andy who runs the cricket facility, he informed us that the game had to be called off due to a waterlogged pitch. Although this was a great disappointment for the boys and Mr Clark, we were made to feel very welcome and were treated to a tour of the impressive facilities.
We were introduced to Simon, the Scotland team Manager who answered the many questions the boys had. As the match was called off, both teams took the opportunity to have a joint training session. We stayed to observe how the professionals bowl, bat and field. No one realised how hard the ball could be hit until they saw some of the batsmen in action.
Mid-way through, the school was presented with an incredibly generous amount of cricket equipment which included two sets of stumps, four bats a pair of wicketkeeper’s gloves as well as two dozen cricket balls. We are grateful to Cricket Espana for their kind donation and rest assured it will be used to good effect during future PE lessons.
In all, we had a really informative and enjoyable day and look forward to making full use of our new cricket equipment. Maybe in the future we will be a little luckier with the weather and even get to see a match.
