Zim cricketers conduct boys’ coaching clinic

ZIMBABWE’S Test team yetserday conducted a coaching clinic for up to 30 schoolboys drawn from Bulawayo’s Mpopoma suburb at Gampu Primary School.

Captain Graeme Cremer, Hamilton Masakadza and Sikandar Raza took charge of the spinners, showing them how to grip the ball, position the fingers, rotate the ball and release it, among other techniques.

The aspiring seamers were taken through their paces by Michael Chinouya, Donald Tiripano and Taurai Muzarabani, who imparted expertise on runups, delivery stride stability, follow-through and line and length.

In the nets, acting head coach Makhaya Ntini and batting coach Lance Klusener paid close attention as Tino Mawoyo led the batting drills, teaching the enthusiastic kids how to properly grip the bat, batting stance and shot selection as well as how to make hook shots, square cuts, straight drives and sweep shots.

The other group enjoyed fielding lessons conducted by Craig Ervine, PJ Moor, Regis Chakabva and Brian Chari.

Sean Williams, Njabulo Ncube and Richmond Mutumbami also took part in the coaching clinic, which was graced by Zimbabwe Cricket board member and Bulawayo Metropolitan Cricket Association chairman Vumindaba Moyo, as well as national team manager Christian Chiketa was also in attendance.

Volunteer coach Tyson Meki, who trains youngsters from schools such as Lukanyiso, Mpumelelo, Insukamini, Gampu and Nkulumane, was grateful for the coaching clinic, which he believed would go a long way in inspiring the youngsters to work harder and perfect their skills.

“This means a lot to the kids and me as their coach. It’s really an unbelievable opportunity to have our national team players, who are seen as role models by many of the youngsters, visiting us to help the kids improve their game,” Meki said. — ZC