Cricket development continues at the coast
Cricket Namibia recently unveiled a plethora of additions to the cricketing landscape as the momentum being built by the association continues to grow.
One aim for many associations is to get the sport into education systems in an effort to spark an early passion for cricket, and Cricket Namibia was able to achieve this feat through the Pupkewitz Toyota Coaching Clinics.
Initially, these coaching sessions were scheduled to take place in March, however, due the Covid-19 pandemic, the event was postponed. With the Richelieu Franchise T20 able to conclude on time, the coaching clinics were able to be held.
The sessions took place in six primary schools across Windhoek, presenting a fantastic opportunity for Namibia’s future cricketers. Five national team players were present during the two-hourlong coaching clinics which gave the primary school children an opportunity to learn from some of the country’s best talents.
When speaking about the initiative, Cricket Namibia stated in a statement that; “The aim of this initiative and the involvement of the Eagles is to mentor our younger cricketers, familiarise themselves with our National players and to create a connection with their local cricket heroes.”
According to Cricket Namibia, the tournament which is now in its 24th year “has been a great platform for younger cricketers to excel and develop their potential”. The tournament has seen a number of current national team players previously participate and this year’s tournament will provide an insight into the country’s talent.
This year’s tournament sees the addition of a girls- only tournament which is set to be played in parallel with the boy’s event. The two tournaments started this past weekend with the boy’s tournament being held in Walvis Bay and the female event is being held in Swakopmund.
Andre Snyman, Walvis Bay Salt Refiners managing director, quoted British politician and former track and field athlete
Sebastian Coe when talking about their partnership with Cricket Namibia, saying: “Sport is a universal language, building more bridges between people than anything else I can think of…”
Synman also spoke about
the difficulties that the global pandemic created for both the town and community of Walvis Bay and said the coastal tournament will allow the children to play and enjoy the game.