THE grandson of an FA Cup-winning Saints manager has spoken about how sport 'saved his life'.

George McMenemy, grandson of Lawrie McMenemy, used his love of cricket to help him get through the lowest moment in his life.

George, of Market Place, Romsey, first found his love of cricket around the time of England's famous 2005 Ashes win.

The 24-year-old said: “I was on holiday in Devon at the time, and we had some cricket-mad neighbours. I instantly fell in love with it. 

“In 2017, I lost my mother very suddenly. I had to defer starting university for a year as she died four days before I was due to start.

“It was a very dark point in my life, but I found cricket again.”

Hampshire Chronicle:

George plays for Newport Inn Cricket Club in Braishfield. His bowling style is unique. As he steps up, he takes 12 steps from side-to-side, before bowling. He describes what he bowls as 'moon balls'.

In June, George uploaded a video of himself bowling to Twitter. The clip went viral, with several current and former international players offering words of encouragement.

In the video, George said: “Folks I might be a fool, I might even be the worst cricketer in the world but this sport has saved my life, enriched my mental health and given me a platform to be happy once more and try to make my incredible Mummy proud up in heaven. Cricket I love you.”

Commenting on the video, Australian test player Marnus Labuschagne said: "This is fantastic George - you're an inspiration to us all - thanks for sharing your love of the best game in the world."

New Zealand bowler Ajaz Patel said: “Good on yah mate! Keep enjoying the game!”

Former South African fast bowler Dale Steyn posted the video and said: “If anyone asks what I did for a living, I’m showing them this video.”

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George, who works for Youth in Romsey, said: “This year, I took six wickets which is my most successful year. Cricket is my happy place. I'm very concious that discussion about mental health is on the rise, especially in young men. There is more openness now.

Hampshire Chronicle:

“Cricket saved my life. I was very close to not being here. I had very dark thoughts, but cricket gave me a purpose. 

“I feel I have more of a role to play now. If you open yourself up to your passion, it can do wonders for your life.”

George said his grandfather enjoys watching him play. He said: “He absolutely loves it. My grandparents are my biggest supporters. He lives in Braishfield where I play. He inspires me when I go out to play.”

Speaking about England's chances in the T20 World Cup, George was feeling confident. He said: “T20 is very unpredictable. England tend to grow into tournaments, in every sport. I think we have the best batting lineup in the world. I back us 100 per cent.”