U19 Allen praises DFA programme

Auckland University cricketer Finn Allen has a lot going for him.

The 17-year-old played for the New Zealand team in the U19 ICC World Cup earlier this year. He was also the leading runs scorer for his team.

He’s already set his sights on making the side again for the 2018 World Cup, even going as far as to eyeing the captaincy role.

All of these, he believes, would not be achievable if it wasn’t for Auckland Cricket’s Development Future Aces (DFA) programme. Finn joined the programme last year.

‘‘Being named in the programme is a big thing, for me I was so happy. It gets your name out there and selectors sort of know who to look out for when you play,’’ he says.

‘‘The programme covers all aspects of the game - mental, physical, strength and condition- ing. For me, it has helped me a lot.’’

The DFA and the Development Future Hearts (DFH) programmes are in their third year after Auckland Cricket decided to scrap the winter academy systems.

They target players between the ages of 16 and 19 and laced with talent from Ellerslie, University, Parnell, Grafton and Cornwall clubs.

Auckland Cricket’s talent identification manager Nick White says selection is based on ability and traits required for success at the highest levels in the future with players receiving special training.

‘‘Being named in the programme is a big thing, for me I was so happy.’’

New Zealand U19 cricket player, Finn Allen Finn Allen says being in the DFA programme has helped him become a better all-round player.