A Celebrated Tradition: CAOKS vs School Annual Cricket Match

Always a much-anticipated fixture in the school’s sporting calendar, the annual CAOKS vs School cricket match was played on Friday, 20th June.

This year’s match proved to be as memorable as ever, not only for the thrilling cricket but also for the heartfelt recognition of long-serving cricketing enthusiast and much loved member of staff Mr Seb Neal.

Played as a 30-over-per-side game with the option of a declaration, the School side made the most of their innings, declaring after 24 overs on a formidable 196-6. Despite a brief collapse from 60-0 to 73-5, an unbeaten 89-run partnership between De Rycke (56*) and Morris (41*) steadied the innings. Standout bowling came from Scott McCormick, who claimed 3-26 from his 4 overs, and Adrian Waddelove, who returned 2-33 from 7 overs.

In reply, CAOKS ground out a determined 105-9 from 36 overs, managing to hold on for a draw thanks to some gritty resistance. Waddelove (32) and McCormick (22) laid a solid foundation, but it was captain Will Atkin (27*), batting with calm authority as wickets tumbled around him, who steered the team to safety. His innings included a memorable six off the School’s captain – and Glamorgan player – Romano Franco, who nonetheless returned excellent figures of 5-38.

Beyond the competitive spirit and camaraderie on the pitch, the day held special significance for Mr Seb Neal, who was awarded a First XI cap by the Headmaster in recognition of his outstanding contribution to cricket at King’s over the past 33 years.

As he nears retirement, this gesture served as a small but heartfelt token of appreciation for his unwavering commitment, infectious enthusiasm, and deep love of the game. Fittingly, Mr Neal will return next year as a member of the CAOKS team, proudly wearing his cricketing colours.

Special thanks go to David Atkin (OKS 1994 ) for organising the CAOKS team. We are also grateful to CAOKS scorer Saul Marks (OKS 1998  , who not only kept meticulous records but also brought along cricketing memorabilia to enrich the day’s experience.

With sunshine, sportsmanship, and sentiment in equal measure, this year’s CAOKS fixture was a true celebration of cricket and community.

Please see below the gallery including scorecard and joint team photo

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