THE cricket Test match between England and Zimbabwe today brings back a flood of memories from my school days at Prince Edward School in Harare.
Watching players in white battle it out on the pitch stirred deep nostalgia, compelling me to put pen to paper and reflect on the remarkable journey of old boys from my alma mater, some of whom went on to wear the England jersey with pride.
Prince Edward School has long stood as a beacon of sporting excellence, particularly in rugby and cricket.
Tucked away in the heart of Harare, it was there, on our manicured school fields, that many young talents discovered their passion for the game.
For us, playing rugby and cricket was more than just a sport, it was a way of life.
The school’s rich traditions, competitive fixtures and exceptional coaching created an environment that nurtured cricketers of international calibre.
Among the most celebrated of our old boys is Graeme Hick, a name synonymous with cricket greatness in both Zimbabwean and English circles.
Born in Harare and educated at Prince Edward, Hick’s prodigious talent with the bat was evident from an early age.
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He eventually moved to England, where he qualified to play for the national team.
Hick’s career with England saw him play in 65 Test matches and 120 One-Day Internationals, amassing over 8 000 runs.
His journey from the school grounds of Harare to the hallowed turf of Lord’s Cricket Ground is an amazing story of dedication, adaptability and sheer determination.
While Hick may be the most high-profile Prince Edward alumnus to represent England, he is by no means the only one to leave his mark on the game.
David Houghton, Zimbabwe’s first Test captain and an equally proud old boy, played a pivotal part in laying the foundation of Zimbabwean cricket.
Eddo Brandes, remembered for his fiery spells and the unforgettable hat-trick against England in 1997, also proudly wore the Prince Edward colours.
What sets Prince Edward apart is not just its history, but the cricketing culture it continues to foster.
The school has long been a crucible for developing not just skills, but character, teamwork and leadership.
Many of us who passed through its gates carry those values with us for life.
As England and Zimbabwe renew their rivalry on the international stage, it is worth remembering the legacy of a school that quietly continues to shape the global game.
Prince Edward’s influence endures, not only through those who have represented nations, but also through countless others who have carried its ethos into coaching, mentoring and community leadership.
In that spirit, I would like to extend a heartfelt invitation to all Prince Edward old boys, particularly those with experience in professional cricket, to consider giving back by mentoring or coaching the next generation of Zimbabwean cricketers.
Your experience, wisdom and guidance could be instrumental in restoring Zimbabwe’s rightful place in the cricketing world.
Let us come full circle by turning the pride of our schooldays into purpose for the future.
Tot facienda parum factum meaning so much to do so little done.
Jacob Kudzayi Mutisi, Proud PE Old Boys
