This year’s Loretto Day cricket match between the 1st XI and Old Lorettonians once again proved to be one of the most enjoyable occasions in the school calendar. This annual game is always a wonderful celebration of Loretto in mind, body and spirit. Cricket is a perfect sport to unite both current and old Lorettonians for an afternoon marked by competition and friendly camaraderie.

The 1st XI batted first and - against a determined OL attack with a lively spirit in the field - struggled to build stands, ending up all out for 127. Ethan H produced a fine innings under pressure, reaching a well-earned 62 to provide the backbone of the school’s total. His composure ensured the 1st XI had something competitive to defend, even if well below a par score for a declaration match. Patrick Burnet (2020) was the pick of the OL bowlers with 3 wickets for 2 runs.

The Old Lorettonians’ reply began in dramatic fashion. Within the first four overs they had lost five wickets for just three runs. Andrew W produced a devastating opening spell from the Pinkie House end. Bowling with pace and relentless consistency, he put the OLs in real trouble and gave the 1st XI control of the match.

To their credit, the OLs continued to play with tenacity. Archie Lang (2022) kept hopes alive with a calm innings, putting away bad balls with some big hits while defending the good ones. Sadly, wickets continued to tumble at the other end. By tea, the OLs had slipped to 40 for 9, Andrew W taking a remarkable 7 wickets for 8 runs. The result appeared all but settled.

There was still time for a defiant last-wicket stand, one that recalled Ben Stokes’ famous resistance in 2019 and raised hopes of an unlikely twist. Sadly for the OLs, Lang’s unbeaten 51 was not enough. The final wicket fell with the score on 77, giving the 1st XI the victory.

Warm thanks must go to all of the OLs who returned to play in and support the fixture, and to the pupils who helped make it a great match. Particular mention goes to Charlie L, who proved an excellent stand-in captain and led the 1st XI with confidence.

David Hinchliffe (Hon.)
Head of Cricket and Pinkie HM

More photos can be viewed in the OLs vs 1st XI Cricket 2026 photo gallery.