From Bablake Beginnings to England Cricket Glory
November 14, 2024
On Friday 7 September 2012, during Games, a Shell pupil told me that he would play for England. Just over 12 years later, that dream became reality and Dan Mousley made his England debut against the West Indies in an ODI 50 over match.
Photo credit: Mark Woodward
It has been a pleasure to see Dan develop and grow as a cricketer. After playing his first hard ball game at 4 years old, he made his Warwickshire U10 debut at 8 years old and then proceeded to win the WCB Junior Player of the Year Award on numerous occasions.
During his time at Bablake, he represented the 1st XI in Year 8 and in Year 9 he was selected a year early to represent the Midlands at the prestigious Bunbury Festival. This was his first opportunity to showcase his skills in front of the England selectors.
A couple of years later, whilst in our Sixth Form, he signed his professional contract with Warwickshire, balancing his A Levels alongside representing the England U19s in the World Cup and touring Bangladesh and India.
The late Terry Patchett, Bablake School Master, who taught at Bablake for 39 years before retiring in 2003, recognised that Dan was an outstanding talent and supported him with a cricket scholarship throughout his time at the school. I know Dan would have spared a thought for Terry as he received his England Cap.
As a school, we are incredibly proud of Dan’s achievements and the outstanding role model he has become to our current young athletes. His relentless dedication, hard work and perseverance is a reminder to all of us to follow our dreams!
By Andrew Phillips
Head of Academic PE
Dan Mousley at the ACB Awards with Chris Woakes
