Joe Root opens new junior facility in Leeds in name of deceased former Roundhay School pupil

England's Test captain brought the World Cup trophy for the opening of the new Junior Oval at North Leeds Cricket Club, which has been named in memory of junior cricketer Tom Coupe

In the build-up to the third Ashes Test at Headingley, England Test captain Joe Root opened a new junior oval and net area at North Leeds Cricket Club in the city's suburb of Roundhay.

The new facility has been named after a former junior cricketer, Tom Coupe, who sadly died last September aged 17.

Tom, a pupil of Roundhay School, passed away suddenly whilst helping out at an open day event for prospective sixth formers at his school.

Tom started playing at the cricket club from the age of seven and grew up playing the sport he loved, progressing through all the junior age groups and learning the game and its values. 

The new facility, which will be known as the Tom Coupe Junior Oval, has been developed on redundant land next to the main cricket ground, which is located close to Roundhay Park. 

"I felt it was important to show my support to North Leeds Cricket Club and Tom's family," said Root, who brought the Cricket World Cup trophy, which England won for the first time in July, with him.

^{Joe Root opened the new facility in Roundhay}

"The facility is a fitting tribute to Tom and his family.

"The great thing about sport is that you can give something back; it puts life into perspective. When I heard about this, I had no hesitation in coming and meeting the junior players who will have the benefit of using these excellent facilities.

"We talk a lot about inspiring the next generation, but when you see it first-hand the impact cricket can have on children who want to play the game, it is extraordinary.

"This facility will be cherished for many years to come and shows that the game is growing and loved by many."

North Leeds Cricket Club is a member of the Airedale & Wharfedale Senior Cricket League and is one of the biggest club's in Leeds with junior teams playing every day of the week from under 7s to under 18s. The senior set-up has three teams playing across the weekend.

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