Rugby School Strengthens Cricket Partnership with Warwickshire CCC

Professional cricket at The Close and wider use of the school’s facilities for young players across the county

Rugby School has formalised a long-term partnership with Warwickshire County Cricket Club, with the agreement set to run until the end of the 2028 season.

The partnership establishes Rugby School as a strategic partner of Warwickshire CCC and aims to create new opportunities for pupils, young cricketers and the wider cricket community across the county.

As part of the agreement, Rugby School will host professional cricket at The Close, with the first three one-day matches taking place this month.

Rugby School Headmaster Gareth Parker-Jones said: “The Close provides an iconic setting for professional cricket, with the matches providing a great opportunity for people in Rugby and the surrounding area to watch top-level cricket.

“The wide-ranging nature of the partnership means that Rugby School will become an important hub for growing participation in the game, and will continue to provide a route for those who have aspirations to play at the highest level.”

The partnership will also make greater use of Rugby School’s cricket facilities for young players across Warwickshire, including during the winter months and at summer cricket festivals.

Rugby’s Head of Cricket is former Warwickshire captain and England A cricketer Michael Powell, while its Head of Girls’ Cricket, Adam Pursell, is also a Staffordshire Performance Coach.

Mr Powell said: “This partnership will provide opportunities for young players across Warwickshire to enjoy our outstanding facilities throughout the winter and during cricket festivals in the summer.

“By opening our doors to more young cricketers, we hope to support their development, inspire a lifelong love of the game, and strengthen the pathway for cricket across the county.”

Rugby School enjoyed considerable cricketing success in 2025, when both its Girls’ and Boys’ 1st XI teams won the U18 National Cup Championships at Lord’s.

The school has also produced a number of high-profile cricketers, including England internationals Jacob Bethell and Maia Bouchier, while Amu Surenkumar has represented England Women U19s.

Rugby School’s cricket facilities include eight squares with stitched wickets, eight artificial nets, 12 grass nets and four indoor nets.

The new partnership with Warwickshire CCC is expected to further strengthen the school’s role in developing cricket and providing opportunities for aspiring players across the region.