Wellington College students were given a rare treat over the weekend when they had the opportunity to play cricket under the supervision of one of the greats of the game. The former England Captain and legendary batsman Mike Gatting was in Shanghai in order to promote the game of cricket and to impart cricket expertise to students from all over the city.

The Wellington U9 and U11 teams were the first to play as they traveled to Dulwich College to embark on many of the pupil’s first ever cricket match.  Playing in a limited overs pairs match, the students experienced the thrill of this traditional British game, a sport equally treasured by Wellington’s UK partner school.

Mike Gatting was on hand all day, offering advice and encouragement to the pupils as they played their matches; such advice ranged from assistance on correct grip and swing to perfecting their batting technique.

In spite of the relative inexperience of the U9s, they triumphed in two of their four matches and, in a thrilling 3rd/4th play-off, managed to deter a spirited YK Pao performance and subsequently secure third place in the tournament. The U11s equally won two of their four games and, in an outcome reminiscent of the U9s, beat YK Pao to also take third place in the tournament.

Despite never having played the game before, Agnes Yu proved her athletic ability once again by being awarded ‘batsman of the tournament’ and was presented with a trophy by Mike Gatting himself.

Saturday brought the cricketing to the hallowed grounds of Wellington with the U13 teams in action. The spectators were treated to outstanding performances from all of the Wellingtonians; poor light alone halted the action. However, the Wellington team had amassed enough points to be declared the victors of the day.

It was another superb weekend of sport for Wellington pupils and staff alike; having this unique opportunity to spend time with one of the world’s greatest sporting icons.