National recognition for Sussex's Alfie Pyle

Sussex D40 batter Alfie Pyle has won the 2023 Variety Disability Sports Awards Rising Star award, capping off a remarkable breakthrough season in disability cricket.

 Crawley-born Alfie, 20, who was called up to the England Men’s LD side this April, got his first taste of cricket as one of the very early participants in the Lord’s Taverners Super 1s programme, which offers cricket coaching to young children with disabilities across the country. He has since risen through the ranks to represent Sussex in D40 cricket and featured for Disability Premier League champions Hawks in this summer’s tournament.

 Alfie – who was presented with the award at star-studded event hosted by the Variety Club children’s charity – has continued his association with the Lord’s Taverners as a Super 1s coach, and was over-the-moon to be recognised for his achievements:

 “I’m really happy to have won this award; I didn’t think I was going to win so when they said my name and everyone clapped, it was a great feeling.

 “I’ve had a great first year in the England squad and am really enjoying my cricket at the moment. There were times in my life growing up when the bullying I experienced made things difficult – but now, to be playing with my friends, representing my country – I’m loving every minute.

 “The role that Variety plays supporting young disabled athletes is vital. Whether you end up loving sport or not, it’s great to give children the opportunity to give it a go and see where it might lead.”

 Alfie travels to South Africa this weekend with the England Men’s LD side, who will face-off against the Proteas and Australia in a tri-series in Pretoria. You can keep up to date with the series across the ECB’s channels throughout November.

 Interested in playing disability cricket? Find out about the playing opportunities in your area for both adults and children on the Sussex Cricket Foundation's website.