A ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME trip gave Huntington School cricketers the chance to test their skills against the best up-and-coming talent in Sri Lanka.

The York school’s 16-man under-15s squad played against academy sides from Negombo, Kandy and Seenigama during a 12-day tour of the sub-continent.

The turning pitches and humid climate of Sri Lanka presented Huntington with an unfamiliar challenge as they were beaten in all six of their matches.

Matthew Hunt, one of the group leaders, said: “We have some very talented lads, but the standard over there was amazing. To be honest, though, the trip was about more than just playing cricket. They got to experience a totally different culture.”

The trip, organised via Red Dot Tours, was paid for by a lengthy fundraising campaign. The support of local businesses also helped them reach their £8,000 target, but 14-year-old all-rounder Nathan Jackson, said their hard work was worth it.

“The fundraising was long and hard at times,” he said. “But it was all worth it in the end. It was a great trip.”