Cracking Cricket

Cricket is a popular sport at Barnhill and the introduction of the C6 format is gaining great momentum.  

The recent cricket event was inspired by Mrs Arjoon, Teacher of Textiles, who approached her contacts in the field of cricket and used her enthusiasm and powers of persuasion to challenge our cricket coach, Samarjeet Singh, to put out a side to compete against Barnhill.  Coach Singh accepted the challenge and plans were put in place to turn the astro into a cricket pitch.  Tickets were sold to student spectators who cheered on the Barnhill Gladiators facing Sam's Sixers.

We had the pleasure of VIP guests gracing our event including:

Mr Raj Chityal - Co founder of C6 cricket.

Mr Raj Bancil - Chairman of the Indian Gymkhana Cricket Club and a member for the last 40 years as a player and coach and who still dedicates his Saturdays to scoring for the first and second XIs. 

Md Tanvir Ahamad - Middlesex Coach of the Year 2022 and cricket legend who said,'I believe cricket is much more than a game. It teaches discipline, teamwork, leadership, respect, resilience and confidence.  My greatest satisfaction comes from helping players of all ages and abilities reach their potential while creating an inclusive and enjoyable environment where everyone feels welcome'.

Mr Simon Hughes former Middlesex and Durham bowler and a leading international commentator (who also assisted with commentary on the day!).

The Barnhill Gladiators played a fantastic game that impressed our VIPS and Mr Jones swapped his headteacher's suit jacket for an umpire hat to officiate and ensure fair play.

Our school boasts many young and budding cricketers like Naina, Ahem and Veer who play at a very high level and demonstrate great skill and promise.  Talents we wish to capture and hone.

Naina reflected on the experience and said it was a good challenge to play against the Middlesex team and perform for the audience. She added, 'having a loud crowd was different and was really exciting.'

Tasbhe, one of the student spectators, said' I really enjoyed the match because it gave me a greater understanding about cricket and showed that you can always have fun; not everything is about competition.'

Congratulations to Samarjeet Singh who, as well as coaching at Barnhill and playing for Indian Gymkhana cc and Middlesex 2nd X1, has been selected for the England Young Lions U19 Squad!

Following the match, Mr Chityal said 'My son and I thoroughly enjoyed the event. I was amazed at the attention to detail from the whole team, coupled with your incredibly respectful hosting and wonderfully enthusiastic students. A triumph for Barnhill and the values the team is instilling in the students.  I am deeply touched to know that C6 Cricket is helping bring enjoyment. I am committed to helping cricket in State schools and look forward to supporting Barnhill further in the days ahead.'

Simon Hughes summed up the whole occasion for us all with "Magnificent show today. Brilliant!'

We are delighted to have raised £300 for the Cricketers' Trust and to further equip our cracking cricketers.