Captain Harry hit a second successive century as Monmouth School for Boys put up another brave display, in an exciting five-wicket defeat against Glamorgan Academy.

The teenager has started the new season in top form, much to the delight of his batting coach and mentor, former Glamorgan and England opener, Steve James.

Harry struck 102 to lift the school to 229-6 from 40 overs in last Saturday’s fixture played in glorious sunshine at Monmouth School for Boys’ Sports Ground.

Despite a spirited bowling and fielding display from the school, a match-winning unbeaten century from Callum (127 not out) steered Glamorgan to the target with two overs remaining.

It might have been the school’s second loss in a week against the youngsters from Glamorgan Academy, who are part of the Cricket Wales pathway.

But the Monmouth team have benefited greatly from both outings against Glamorgan and it’s wonderful to see them representing the school after last season’s disappointment due to the pandemic.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Monmouth’s innings started well through Harry and Hugo (28) as the pair raced to a 50-run opening stand in the ninth over.

The Monmouth openers put on 72 runs for the first wicket and, after Joe had made 13, Henry (51) joined his captain at the crease for a valuable third-wicket stand of 99.

Henry hit seven boundaries in his 65-ball knock and as pair took the school from 96-2 to 195-3.

Harry, who hit 11 boundaries, completed his outstanding century in just 95 deliveries before he was eventually dismissed for 102 – having made 105 the previous week.

Sam chipped in with 12 as the school reached a competitive total.

In Glamorgan’s reply, the school picked up an early wicket. They then reduced the visitors to 77-2 before Glamorgan’s batsmen gained the upper hand.

Callum, who hit 13 boundaries, was in superb form. He shared a 106-run third-wicket stand with Joe (47) which turned the match firmly in Glamorgan’s favour.

Despite the unstinting efforts of Theo (1-24), Will (1-27), Freddie (1-28) and Ed (1-47), Glamorgan remained on top.

Henry instigated a run-out, while Sam and Joe both took catches, but Glamorgan wrapped up a second consecutive victory against the school, in 38 overs.