There was double the reason to celebrate this week as our U13 1st XI added a second title to an already remarkable season.
Fresh from their IAPS Cup triumph, the boys delivered another composed, all-round performance to win the David English Cup Midlands Final. Posting 134 from their 30 overs, they combined sharp fielding with disciplined, intelligent bowling to dismiss the opposition for 101, sealing a convincing 34-run victory.
And their journey is not over yet. The boys now look ahead to the National Semi-Final on Friday 26 June, where they will face Manchester Grammar School.
This latest success follows an outstanding display at the IAPS National Finals Day. In the semi-final against Cathedral School, Cardiff, the boys had to dig deep. After being bowled out for 87, a determined and disciplined response with the ball saw them restrict their opponents to 71, securing a well-earned place in the final.
In the final against Westbourne School, Bedford were put into bat. Aveer led superbly from the front with an unbeaten 64, guiding the team to 111 from their 20 overs. Westbourne’s reply began confidently, but the momentum shifted through outstanding fielding, with crucial catches from Tom and William at key moments.
The pressure built through clever, controlled bowling. Will (1–12) and Gabe (5–20) varied their pace to great effect, forcing mistakes and creating opportunities. With the game finely balanced, the boys showed real composure. In a tense finish, two wickets fell from the final two balls, with Nikhil holding his nerve in the last over to secure a thrilling three-run win.
Across both competitions, the team has shown exceptional skill, resilience and character under pressure. A fantastic achievement, and richly deserved.
They join our U13 golfers and U11A hockey team as IAPS national champions, completing a wonderful hat-trick of success this year.
