Cricket

Dulwich College has long been renowned for its excellence in cricket. PG Wodehouse commented that the game was one of the major strengths of the College in his day, and many generations of pupils, parents and staff have since agreed with his view. There can be few finer places to be on a warm summer’s afternoon than the Dulwich College cricket pitch.

Cricket has been played at the College for more than 140 years and has a great deal of tradition and kudos attached to it. There is a rumour that the infamous cricket term “Cow Corner” originated here. Over the years the College has been extremely proud to see a number of OAs going on to achieve considerable cricketing success and being capped for their country, with several being named Wisden’s ‘Cricketer of the Year’. One of our most famous OAs is Trevor Bailey, who won 61 Caps for England and was named Cricketer of the Year in 1950. The College’s ‘Trevor Bailey Sports Ground’ is named in his honour. More recently, Chris Jordan OA played a key part in the 2022 England T20 World Cup win in Australia.

All pupils coming to the College will have an opportunity to play cricket which is a key component of the games programme in the Summer term. Furthermore, there is a genuine opportunity to represent the College as we consistently field numerous sides at all age groups, from the U8s up to the 1st XI. Pupils are also able to take part in cricket nets across the academic year. The College’s extensive winter training programme is led by our Head of Player Development, Adam Riley, and complimented with many experienced cricket coaches. In addition, Sixth Form pupils are able to access 1-2-1 sessions with Adam during study periods. To support our comprehensive programme, the College has an impressive number of pitches as well as 16 artificial nets, eight indoor nets and the use of two Bola bowling machines.

Such is the success of the cricket provision that Dulwich College is regularly named as one of the ‘The Cricketer’s Top 100 Senior Schools’. The College has an enviable record, frequently reaching national finals. In recent years, the 1st XI competed in the final of the Sobers Challenge and the Murali Cup. Festivals and tours are also regular events with pupils having the opportunity to tour in the UK and overseas. Individually, many pupils represent Surrey and Kent age-group county teams whilst, more locally, pupils play district and club cricket across South London.

Alongside the excellent work done within the College, Dulwich has close links with the London Schools Cricket Association, hosts the girls’ and boys’ MCC hub whilst providing facility to the African-Caribbean Cricket Club.