Hampshire Collegiate Cricketers Travel to India

Twelve pupils from Hampshire Collegiate School HCS travelled to Bangalore recently to take part in a cricket tournament hosted by The International School of Bangalore (TISB).

Although cricket was the major focus, the nine day visit proved to be both educational and a life changing experience for pupils, none of whom had ever visited India.  A highlight for the boys was chance to be photographed with Indian cricket legend, Rahual Dravid at an end of tournament presentation ceremony, where pupil Jack Brown was presented with the ‘All-rounder of the Tournament Award’ for his playing and captaincy achievements.

The team progressed through the first round of games (winning 2 out of 3) then onto a semi-final win against the much fancied host team TISB. The final was well contested ending in a narrow defeat for HCS however, it was observed that the progress made by the squad, had been impressive in such short time playing together.

The 11 man squad (plus scorer) underwent a daily routine which started at 5.45am and included running, swimming, video analysis and training, followed by matches played on an impressive oval with stands! In addition to the cricket, the tour gave pupils an opportunity to visit places of local interest enabled them to experience the sights and sounds of India’s fascinating culture.

HCS cricket master Ian Stuart said: “This inaugural trip certainly was a tremendous all round experience for our pupils and we look forward to returning in 2011 with a further group, who will be fortunate to experience ‘life within and beyond the cricketing boundaries’.”

The pupils were accompanied on the trip by Hector MacDonald, Principal, David D’Arcy-Hughes, Chairman of Governors and Ian Stuart cricket master.