England One Day International cricket captain Alastair Cook visited Stoke Mandeville Stadium to give out to some batting tips to one lucky young cricketer.
The England opener gave Swanbourne House School student Olly Tice an hour-long session in the nets after donating the prize to an auction at the Swanbourne House Summer Ball.
Cook, one of the world’s best batsmen and named as ICC Test Player of the Year in 2011, took time out from a busy schedule of test and one day fixtures against South Africa to help the youngster work on his game.
Olly said he could not sleep the night before because he was so excited.
He said: “Meeting my idol has been amazing, something I will remember for the rest of my life.”
The Swanbourne House Summer Ball helped to raise more than £40,000 for WheelPower, the national charity for wheelchair sport based at the stadium.
WheelPower chief executive Martin McElhatton said: “We are delighted the charity has received such high profile support.
“Alastair Cook is a leading sportsman and an inspiration to many children who hope to follow his footsteps.
“With the money raised from the auction, WheelPower can offer the opportunity for disabled children and adults to achieve their dreams in sport and live healthy, active lifestyles just like Cooky.”
Olly will next be able to see his idol in action when England take on South Africa in the third and final test match from August 16.
England have to win the match in order to hold on to their world number one test cricket ranking.
