THIRTY pupils from Lord Wandsworth College were lucky enough to meet the Lashings World XI cricketers who played at Odiham and Greywell.

The renowned Lashings team is made up of former England and international cricketers who tour the UK playing at schools and clubs to promote the sport. This year’s team included John Emburey, Monty Panesar, Gordon Greenidge and Herschelle Gibbs.

The pupils were lucky enough to take part in a batting masterclass with former England spinner Monty Panesar and a fielding masterclass run by England all-rounder Phil DeFreitas. They asked lots of questions and the professionals were impressed when they demonstrated their skills.

They then watched the exciting match between Lashings and Odiham & Greywell’s first XI. Lord Wandsworth College’s very own Alex Brown, who is in the fourth form, played in the match for Odiham & Greywell and was named man of the match.

This topped off a special year for Lord Wandsworth College’s cricket teams which saw the under-13 and under-15 girls become Hampshire champions in the Lady Taverners indoor cricket competition, the girls first XI winning key matches against Wellington and Cranleigh, and the boys claiming the scalps of Epsom, Radley and Charterhouse.

It also landed a place in the top 100 UK schools for cricket in the UK by Cricketer magazine.

Headteacher Adam Williams said: “Lord Wandsworth College’s cricket is going from strength to strength and it’s particularly exciting to see the girls’ cricket, which has recently been introduced throughout the school, developing and having such an impact.

“It was wonderful to watch our pupils interacting with the Lashings players and getting tips and advice. I’m extremely proud of them all and am already looking forward to what next season will bring.”