Haberdashers’ Monmouth School Named Among UK’s Top 100 Cricketing Schools – Haberdashers’ Monmouth School

In a remarkable achievement, Haberdashers’ Monmouth has been named one of the top 100 cricketing schools in the UK by The Cricketer magazine. Featured in the Cricketer Schools Guide 2025, this accolade recognises the school’s exceptional commitment to cricket, cementing its place among the elite institutions for the sport.

The Cricketer Schools Guide is the UK’s definitive resource for cricket in education. The rigorous selection process assessed schools on a wide range of criteria, including the integration of cricket into the curriculum, quality of facilities, strength of fixture programmes, and calibre of coaching.

Outstanding Facilities, Coaching Programme and Expertise

The school’s cricket programme is supported by first-class facilities, including seven grass squares, six artificial nets, and two indoor sports hall spaces with four lanes. A live-stream programme aids player development, while the cricket pitches—nestled in the picturesque Wye Valley—offer an inspiring setting for players and spectators alike.

The programme is led by Director of Cricket Callum Bassett-Jones and Assistant Director James Boiling, a former Surrey and Durham player. The School’s Director of Sport, ex-Glamorgan professional Andrew Jones, also coaches within the cricket programme, while former England and Glamorgan cricketer, and Monmouth alumnus, Steve James further enhances the school’s coaching team.

The school’s coaching programme includes one-to-one sessions and specialist group coaching for pathway players, after-school squad practices for all cricketers, and a comprehensive summer fixture schedule. This extensive training programme is complemented by regular Saturday and midweek fixtures for each team, competing against schools, clubs, and regional and pathway sides.

Boys and Girls Excelling in Cricket

The school fields numerous teams across all age groups, playing over 130 fixtures annually. Girls’ cricket has seen exceptional growth over the last seven years, with junior players representing Cricket Wales at Under-13 to Under-15 levels. Fourteen girls were selected for representative cricket this summer, highlighting the programme’s success.

Current pupils Jacob Blades and Zac Williams have earned places in the Glamorgan Academy, while alumnus Henry Hurle recently signed his first professional contract with Glamorgan. Former pupil Sophia Smale continues to excel, representing Western Storm and the Oval Invincibles.

A Rich Cricketing History

The school’s cricketing legacy dates back to 1882, as recorded in The Monmothian magazine. Over the years, notable players such as Steve James (England, Glamorgan), Sophia Smale, and Jeremy Lawlor have honed their skills here. The 1983 U17 victory in the Barclays Bank Schools Cricket Cup remains a standout moment in the school’s cricketing history.

Looking Ahead

Building on its remarkable success, Haberdashers’ Monmouth School is set to further elevate its girls’ cricket programme, with plans to expand both the number of teams and competitive opportunities. The school is also working to strengthen its partnerships with local clubs and Cricket Wales Women, providing even more pathways for female cricketers.

With the addition of the Eddie Butler Sports Academy, including a state-of-the-art Strength & Conditioning Centre, the school is poised to maintain its reputation as a leader in school cricket while nurturing the next generation of cricketing stars.

This recognition by The Cricketer underscores Haberdashers’ Monmouth School’s commitment to sporting excellence, providing students with unparalleled opportunities to thrive both on and off the pitch.