Kettleborough’s record breaking services retained by Middlesex

BEDFORD School cricketer James Kettleborough has been retained in the Middlesex Academy squad for the new season, writes Mike Simmonds.

The 17-year-old from Old Warden enjoyed a successful summer with the club and captained the U17 side to National success against Nottinghamshire at Canterbury.

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He intends to complete his contract with the Lord’s club this season and will then an important decision on his future, if he is offered something permanent.

He said: “It’s a good club to be at. There’s a good atmosphere and its a laugh before training starts, then everyone takes it very seriously.

“I’ve been at the Academy and it’s a very good level there.

“Some of the players are excellent and will go on to play at the highest level I think.

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“I’m 17 now and in my last year of school. I’ve got a two year contract which is up in September, so I need to make a big effort this season.

“I would like to go to Uni as from what I’ve heard, the level they play is similar to first class.

“But if I get offered the chance to sign a full-time contract, then it’s something I would have to seriously look at.”

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It was quite a season for Kettleborough last year as he broke former Bedford School student Alastair Cook’s record for most runs in a 1st XI season.

With Cook currently one of the stars of England’s Ashes series in Australia, then Kettleborough would love to follow emulate the Essex opener. He said: I started off really well last year and it was good to be in such form. “If I can follow in his footsteps I’d be more than pleased.

“He is doing amazing at the moment and I’ve watched a bit if the Ashes and I think he’s doing so well.”

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Those run-scoring exploits saw Kettleborough win the Sporting Schoolboy of the Year award, sponsored by Maude Sports.

He said: “I didn’t really know too much about it. I think the school put me up for it and I think I beat about 100-150 people.

“It was a massive achievement to win the award.”

Kettleborough made his Bedfordshire Minor Counties debut two seasons ago, but only managed to play twice during the campaign just gone.

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He scored 128 runs in four innings and hopes to be a more permanent resident in the side this season.

He added: “Hopefully I’ll play for Beds a bit more now.

“I made my debut two years ago and I’m looking to be more available now and make my name a bit more in Minor Counties cricket.”