School 'honoured' to host West Indies cricket team

Tonbridge School said the visit marks a new chapter in its cricketing history

Pupils have been bowling for the West Indies cricket team during a three-day visit to a school in Kent.

The team were training from Tuesday to Thursday on the pitch at Tonbridge School, with children watching on, and even taking part, in between lessons.

Headteacher James Priory presented team captain Kraigg Brathwaite with a tankard and tie, and the rest of the team with cufflinks.

“Cricket is at the heart of the school’s history and heritage, and we are honoured to host your visit,” said Mr Priory.

The team trained for three days and rested on the fourth due to the hot weather

Team members were using the school’s facilities in preparation for the Richards-Botham Test series against England in July.

They spent two days in the nets then played a warm-up match on the final day, before signing autographs and taking selfies with the pupils.

Chris Morgan, the school’s director of sport, said: “This was such an exciting week, providing our students with a first-hand glimpse into the lives of professional cricketers.

“It was an unforgettable experience, too, for those students who were able to test out their skills on the pitch against world-class players.”

The team are next playing on 3 July in Beckenham.