Oxford Academy students bowled over by cricket legend’s visit

14th April 2014

Students from The Oxford Academy got the chance to meet a British sporting legend when former England cricket captain, Alec Stewart, dropped in to their practice session.

The well-known batsman, who remains the most capped English Test match cricketer of all time, stepped on to the crease to join year nine pupils for a quick innings before sharing his experience of sport and teamwork at the highest level.

Later in the day, Alec, who is also a Clydesdale Bank ambassador, met with local business leaders at the bank’s Business and Private Banking Centre on West Way, where he gave a full and frank assessment of the current England side’s performance in the recent Ashes series.

Mark Laughlan, Head of Clydesdale Bank’s Business and Private Banking Centres in Oxford and Reading, said:

“Alec’s visit certainly struck a chord with students and the local business community alike."

“His career is a testament to his commitment to practice, dedication and teamwork, which are all qualities which should resonate with, and inspire, both the next generation of Oxford’s sportsmen and women and the city’s entrepreneurs.”

Emma Reynolds, Head of Physical Education at The Oxford Academy, said:

“We are honoured to have been involved in this special relationship between sport, education and business. Our students were inspired by Alec’s knowledge of his sport and passion for encouraging others to participate.”