Alfie Pyle has already achieved a significant milestone in his cricket career by overcoming bullies.
Pyle played for England's disability cricket team (D40) during the winter after previously stopping due to bullying at school.
Pyle, who has a learning disability and a speech impediment, stated that the bullying he experienced affected his confidence.
He said he couldn't concentrate when he was playing cricket.
"I got bullied at school, I lost some confidence and stopped cricket for a little bit and that didn't really help me."
The 21-year-old batsman recently made history. He became the first cricketer to play for England after completing the Super 1s programme.
The Lord's Taverners, the UK's leading youth and disability cricket charity, established Super 1s to provide young people aged 12-25 with disabilities the opportunity to play regular, competitive cricket. The programme operates in every county, as well as in Scotland and Wales, and is the first of its kind.
Pyle has reaped the rewards of four years with the Super 1s. After impressing as a player, he broke into the Sussex D40 side. He also played for England's learning disability side in the tri-series against Australia and South Africa.
He made his England debut against Australia in Pretoria in November and made seven appearances, finishing with a batting average of 31.
Last summer, Pyle scored 162 runs in a match against Surrey while playing for Sussex. He also played in the televised final of the 2023 Disability Premier League.
Aside from cricket, Pyle is currently pursuing an RHS level two certificate in Horticulture at Brinsbury College in Pulborough, Sussex.
His goal is to expand his opportunities in the sport while also maintaining his coaching and academic pursuits.
Pyle encourages individuals with disabilities who are interested in sports to try it out and experience the benefits for themselves.