ONE of King’s College’s best-known old boys, Jos Buttler, recently returned to the school where he was a pupil between 2004 and 2009, writes Richard Walsh.

During his time at King’s, the England international linked up with former Somerset player Dennis Breakwell, who played a large part in the development of Buttler’s career.

Despite the rain, the 26-year-old then went outside to face the elements and cut the first turf for the new Indoor Cricket School, which is to be built later this year.

Buttler, who began his First Class career with Somerset before moving to Lancashire, then moved inside where he delivered a batting masterclass to the 45 young cricketers currently at both King’s Hall and King’s College who play in county age group teams.

The England international then took part in a question and answer session chaired by Phil Lewis, director of cricket at King’s College.

At the end of his busy morning schedule, the England man said: “I have really enjoyed being back here at King’s – I haven’t been for a while.

“I’ve got so many happy memories from my time here. 

“Just walking along the corridors and doing all the things that I have this morning, like meeting up with Dennis and being with the players in the team now, have brought it all back.

“It’s great to be able to come back and be able to try to give something back and inspire the pupils to have a bit of fun and play some cricket.

“Coming to King’s played a large part in my development and not just in cricket but all round and in all sports and education.

“The cricket was fantastic – Dennis Breakwell, Andy Jones and Phil Lewis, and before that Pete Dossett as well, were really influential on me. 

“The facilities here were second to none and the opportunities it gave me to have nets at lunch-time, and before and after school, as well as having a great time, all contributed to get me to where I am so far.”