Last week three former pupils played at the absolute pinnacle of their chosen sports, representing England in Rugby (Kyle Sinckler), Cricket (Nat Sciver) and Netball (Eboni Usoro-Brown (née Beckford-Chambers)).
Capping off an impressive week for sport at Epsom, in which the 1st XV secured passage to the Champions Trophy Final, it was a joy to see former students shine on the international stage.
Kyle Sinckler
Kyle Sinckler (G 2009-11) was at his rampaging best for England in their 37-18 defeat of Australia. A formidable presence from the off, Sinckler’s power and tenacity earned him a deserved man of the match.
Kyle’s performance received high praise in the press, with The Independent claiming that he “continues to improve with every performance in an England shirt” and suggesting “he was at his ferocious and mischievous best… brilliant in the loose as well as in the scrum.”
The Times meanwhile suggests that Kyle “combines silk and steel to devastating effect” in a glowing profile that marks Sinckler and teammate Vunipola out as “the most skilful tight-head-loose-head pairing around.”
Nat Sciver
Nat Sciver (Rv 2006-11) produced a standout performance against India to secure England’s passage to the World Twenty20 final against old adversaries Australia.
Nat’s partnership with Amy Jones saw England successfully chase down India’s total. They eased their way to England’s first 20-over global final since 2014, winning by eight wickets with 17 balls remaining as both Jones and Sciver accumulated unbeaten half-centuries.
Unfortunately for Nat and her England teammates victory in the final eluded them. Australia were dominant while England never really made it count on the day, particularly with the bat.
Eboni Osuro-Brown
Completing the hat-trick of international performances, Commonwealth Gold Medallist Eboni Osuro-Brown (Wh 2004-6) gained her 91st cap against Uganda.
The England Roses take on the She Cranes in a three-match series ahead of next year’s World Cup. The first of those games, played on Tuesday evening, saw England edge to a narrow victory 50-46.
The final two games of the series take place this evening (30 November) and on Sunday 2 December.
