School Sport: Newham College rub shoulders with stars

Newham College travelled to watch Ravi Bopara;s All-Star match (Image: Archant)

A group of Newham College cricketers travelled the the ECG in Chemlsford last week to watch Ravi Bopara’s All-Star match.

On show in Bopara’s testimonial game were the likes of Chris Gayle, Shahid Afridi, Kumar Sangakkara and Saeed Ajmal, Moeen Ali, Monty Panesar and Alistair Cook.

Also taking to the field was fellow Newham studnet Zeeshan Khan, who represented Essex as a substitute fielder in the fixture.

After the match, the youngsters were able to speak to some the star names playing in the match which added to the student’s experience.

“Shahid Afridi is my hero! I have never seen him play live and so this was an unbelievable night! I can’t believe all the players were right in front of us and taking pictures with us,” said Hassam Tariq.

Newham captain Fasil Fajarul commented: “This was a great trip, we’ve been to Essex a few times now but this is the best one. To witness the players and how they do things is invaluable. Thanks to our coach for helping to organise this for us, we’ll never forget it.”

Mujakkir Hussain added: “Seeing our teammate Zeeshan on the field playing with legends was inspiring! We’re really proud of him and hope he goes on to make it as a professional.

“The legends were so nice too, players like Alistair Cook who must have a lot on his mind as England Captain, were so friendly and happy to spend time with us.”