The Sheffield College R66T Academy

The opponents for this inaugural fixture were the XL Club North East region who provided stiff opposition in a 35-over match. The students had been undergoing training for the event with their R66T Academy coaches over the winter using the exceptional facilities at S20 The Boundary. Then they attended outdoor net sessions at Sheffield Collegiate Cricket Club. For most of the 18 players who had been present at the training sessions, this was their first cricket experience on grass surfaces. 

 

The match was a great success. The XL Club batted first and scored 191-4. The fielding and bowling produced by the students was impressive and showed what real potential the players in the Academy have. When it came to batting, playing on a grass pitch for the first time was a real challenge. However, they adapted quickly, with some notable contributions they amassed 140. 

 

R66T Academy Coach, Nick Gaywood, said: "The potential within our first cohort of The Sheffield College R66T Academy cricketers is immense! The extra training the College provided for them, match play opportunities and the links made to local clubs have made this a thoroughly joined up and successful first year. The R66T Academy can't wait to see what happens in Year 2!" 

The Sheffield College host several elite Sports Academies where students can combine their academic studies with developing their sporting skills. Curriculum Manager, Ed Kinsey, said: "We are incredibly proud to see the first game of The Sheffield College and R66t Academy partnership be a roaring success. There has been a lot of work behind the scenes to ensure this unique opportunity is provided to aspiring young cricketers within Sheffield. The day was a landmark event for the collaboration, providing a platform for further opportunities in the near future, as the partnership continues to go from strength to strength." 

 

One of the key aims of the project was to see talented young cricketers moving into local cricket clubs. As a result of this first match, two Academy members have now been connected to local clubs. Congratulations to Ibrahim Khan, who has now joined Upper Haugh Cricket Club and to Shahid Azid, who made his debut for Holmesfield Cricket Club last weekend. We hope to see many more of these players making the same steps! 

 

For more information on The Sheffield College R66T Academy, visit the website below!