A DENBIGH High School student has been selected to represent the Wales U13s cricket squad after attending trials in South Wales.

Archie Sussex, 13, has played cricket since the age of eight at Denbigh Cricket Club, where he was given support and coaching by many of the first team players, including Tom Schrimshaw and Gerallt Lyall.

His talent for the game was soon recognised and after his first season with the club, Archie was given the opportunity to go for trials with North East Wales regional cricket.

Although he failed to get through at the first time of asking, his perseverance paid off and he was successful the following year at the age of 10.

Last season was Archie’s breakthrough year with North East Wales, culminating in his maiden century against Pembrokeshire at Connah's Quay.

This remarkable achievement gave Archie the opportunity to attend the Cricket Wales National Development Centre in Ruabon, which is run by Wales coach Jamie Griffiths.

Archie said: “It means the world to me to play cricket for my country.

"Although I aspire to be a professional cricketer, I realise not everyone makes it, but I will continue to try hard and hope for the best.

“Denbigh High School has allowed me to have time off school to further my cricketing career and I really appreciate all the support and encouragement my teachers have given me before each North East Wales match.”

Andy Skeoch, assistant head and head of PE at Denbigh High School, said: “Archie is a talented sportsman who thrives on performing in any sport and excels in PE lessons.

"Being selected to represent Wales is a brilliant achievement and puts him in an elite category of performers.

“We have had a large number of excellent cricketers who attended Denbigh High and who are currently playing for local clubs in the North Wales Cricket Premier League.

"However, Archie is the first to represent Wales.

“Archie has a really good temperament for cricket and the skills required to be successful.

"He will no doubt have a fantastic summer playing with and against some excellent cricketers. We wish him every success and hope he scores plenty of runs!”