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Barney makes UK’s Best Cricket Schools List

Barnard Castle School has made the UK’s best schools for cricket list, after it was revealed in The Cricketer’s Schools Guide 2025.

This year’s guide is a special 10^th anniversary edition and features the top 100 senior, top 50 prep/junior, top 20 all-girls schools for cricket and for the first time, the top 25 state schools.

The roll call of schools emerged from a large number of entrants who were judged against an extensive set of criteria, which included a compelling commitment to cricket in the curriculum, facilities, fixture programmes and coaching.

Master in Charge of Cricket, Lee Clough, said: “On behalf of Barnard Castle School, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for this prestigious recognition. To be named one of the top 100 Cricket Schools in the country is a truly humbling honour.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion of our entire school community. Our operations staff, PE and Games staff have consistently provided exceptional support and facilities, creating an environment where our students can thrive.

“But most importantly, this recognition belongs to our incredible students. They embody ‘The Barney Way’, demonstrating not only cricketing talent but also strong character, sportsmanship, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

“We are committed to nurturing young talent and fostering a love for the game. This award inspires us to continue striving for greatness and to uphold the values that define our school.”

The Cricketer Magazine Editor, Huw Turbervill, said: “Here at The Cricketer, we’ve covered the schools’ game since our inception in 1921, as part of our commitment to follow cricket at all levels.

“We’re proud of this coverage, and the 10^th anniversary of this guide recognises the fantastic cricket programmes that exist in school curricula up and down the country.

“One of the most phenomenal things about the last decade is seeing cricket usurp rounders as the sport for girls. Rejoice!

“We have also introduced a section for state schools, a top 25. The demise of the game in the state sector in the UK has been heartbreaking for us all, but it is uplifting to see some teachers are determined to keep the flames alive.”

The Cricketer researches and produces the Schools Guide annually, with the 2025 edition being supported by Durant Sports – one of the country’s leading suppliers of cricket ground equipment.

Durant Sports managing director Cristian Durant said: “Congratulations to all the schools featured in this esteemed guide – now in its 10th year celebrating the nation’s best cricketing schools.

“As a leading supplier of cricket ground equipment to clubs, professional counties, and schools, we are proud to support The Cricketer’s excellent coverage of school cricket.

“This highlights the significant contributions of coaches and staff to grassroots cricket. Wishing you all a fantastic winter and the best of luck for the upcoming 2025 season.”