A FORMER Malvern College student has been named ‘Schools Cricketer of the Year’ in the Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack published this week.
Olly Cox, 19, was given the accolade for his efforts on Malvern College’s first team in the 2022 cricketing season.
The award winning cricketer scored 1,392 runs, averaging 69 runs per innings, including four centuries.
He has since turned pro, signing for Worcestershire County Cricket Club last June.
The Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack , unofficially known as the ‘bible of cricket’, is considered to be the most authoritative record of cricket in the world.
Olly found himself alongside cricketing royalty in this years list as England’s Test Team Captain, Ben Stokes was named Wisdens ‘Leading Cricketer in the World’ for the third time in the last four years.
Olly said: “To be named Wisden Cricketers’ Almanack Schools Cricketer of the Year truly is an honour, especially to be included alongside world-class players like Ben Stokes, Daryll Mitchell and Tom Blundell.
“I had always dreamed of playing cricket professionally and Malvern College was an exceptional place to learn and improve my game thanks to its world-class facilities and expert teaching staff.”
Olly is the second Malvern College pupil to be named Wisden Schools Cricketer of the Year in the past 10 years after current Somerset batsman, Tom Kohler-Cadmore was awarded the title in 2013.
Master of cricket at Malvern College, Mark Hardinges said: “To have not one but two of our pupils achieve this prestigious accolade in just ten years is an incredible achievement and we are delighted to see Oliver follow in the footsteps of fellow “Old Malvernian Tom Kohler-Cadmore.
“Oliver is an exceptional sportsman and this accolade not only recognises his skill as a sportsman but his commitment to a sport that he showed so much passion for during his time at Malvern.”
Olly added: “I would advise any pupils pursuing a career in sport to make the most of the amazing opportunities and facilities on offer at Malvern.
“The College offers a fantastic environment to try and become the best sports person you can be, whether that be professionally or just for enjoyment.
“Try everything. Find what you love and invest time into it because you’ll never get a better opportunity.”