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From St Michael’s to England: Old Michaelian Leo celebrates national cricket selection

St Michael’s Prep School is proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Old Michaelian Leo, whose selection for the England Under-19 cricket squad represents a significant milestone in an already impressive cricketing journey.

Leo earned his England Under-19 call-up following an outstanding season at age-group level. Captaining Kent Under-18s to the National T20 Final, he finished the competition as its leading run-scorer, demonstrating both leadership and consistency under pressure. He further strengthened his credentials during the prestigious Super 4s Tournament where he once again topped the scoring charts, including a magnificent innings of 126 against the North. Those performances ultimately secured his place in the England Under-19 squad.

Since his selection, Leo has continued to showcase his immense talent on the international stage. In England Under-19s' match against Pakistan at Arundel, he scored a superb 107 in the second innings, marking his debut with a memorable century and underlining his potential for the future.

For the St Michael’s community, Leo’s success comes as little surprise. During his time at the school, he displayed exceptional promise both on and off of the cricket field. A St Michael's Sports Scholar in Years 7 and 8, he approached his sport with dedication and enthusiasm, qualities which have remained an important part of his development as a cricketer.

Reflecting on Leo’s development, Joel Thomas, Head of Boys’ Games at St Michael’s, described him as "a special talent" who approached every opportunity with enthusiasm and commitment. Joel said that Leo's selection for England Under-19 Cricket is a fitting reward for years of hard work, dedication and perseverance, and that the school is "incredibly proud to have played a part in his journey".

He continued: "It is fantastic to see one of our former pupils representing the country. We look forward to continuing to follow his career and seeing what the future holds for him."

"It is fantastic to see one of our former pupils representing the country. We look forward to continuing to follow his career and seeing what the future holds for him."

Leo himself is quick to acknowledge the role that St Michael’s played in his cricketing journey. Reflecting on his England Under-19 debut century against Pakistan, he described the achievement as "an unforgettable experience" and one he is "hugely proud of". However, he is equally aware of the support that helped him reach this stage. He said: "What people don't always see are the years of hard work and the support from those who helped me along the way". 

Looking back on his time at St Michael's, he credits the encouragement of teachers including Mr Brightman and Mr Thomas with helping him develop both his confidence and enjoyment of the game. Leo added: "The encouragement I received gave me the confidence to express myself and enjoy my cricket. It also taught me to keep striving to improve. I'm very grateful for everything St Michael's did to help me on my way."

"The encouragement I received gave me the confidence to express myself and enjoy my cricket. It also taught me to keep striving to improve. I'm very grateful for everything St Michael's did to help me on my way."

Leo’s progression from talented St Michael's Sports Scholar to England cricketer is a testament to years of commitment, resilience and hard work.

As an Old Michaelian, Leo joins a growing number of former pupils who have gone on to excel in their chosen fields. His story serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through dedication, passion and belief in one's potential.

Everyone at St Michael’s Prep School extends their warmest congratulations to Leo on this exceptional achievement and wishes him continued success as his cricketing career progresses. The school looks forward to following his journey with immense pride in the years ahead.