A frisson of excitement permeated Wellington School on Friday as cricketing superstar Kevin Pietersen spent a day in school. The controversial star ran a series of Masterclasses for school pupils and aspiring cricketers from around the region. Over 100 students took part in practical exercises and hands-on batting and bowling applications and heard Kevin speaking about his experiences. He was accompanied by a team of professional Australian cricketers to support his training.
In the morning, younger pupils enjoyed the sessions, and the afternoon was a longer, more intensive experience for older cricketers.
In the evening, Kevin hosted a dinner in Great Hall for 150 parents and friends at which he answered questions and spoke candidly about his career. There was then an auction of Kevin Pietersen cricketing memorabilia and autographs were signed and photos taken with the guests. Kevin proved to be an engaging speaker and a polite and attentive host for the evening.
All the money raised throughout the day will go to for Kevin Pietersen’s charity KP24 Foundation. This aims to support underprivileged children around the globe to have a better chance in sport and in life.
“We are delighted that Kevin was prepared to spend so much time with our pupils and their families,” commented Steffan Jones, Wellington School’s new Head of Sports Performance and Wellbeing. “To meet such an important sporting figure and to work directly with him gives our pupils something to aspire to and real sense of what is possible,” concluded ex-Somerset CCC cricketer Steffan Jones.