Amla launches cricket academy
YOUNG cricketers wanting to play the game the Hashim Amla way will get a chance to do that soon.
Amla, one of the world’s leading batsmen, launched his cricket academy over the weekend.
The Hashim Amla Academy, in partnership with the Motion Inc Indoor Centre, will be housed in the basement of the Westwood Mall Shopping Centre in Westville.
Amla undertook this cricket development project to give youngsters a healthy sports alternative in their spare time.
“I come from the farming town of Tongaat, where every day was a sports day when I was growing up.
Guidance
“After school, it was homework and then sport. I’m hoping to revive that culture,” Amla said.
He remembered how, in 1992, the cricket authorities made a push to unearth cricket talent, which drew him to the game.
“We want to do likewise, and children from anywhere are welcome at the academy.”
He said the academy was about developing players’ cricket skills and he would offer guidance whenever he got a chance to get away from his playing commitments.
Amla understands the importance of proper coaching at a young age.
“I was fortunate to have had good coaching when I was young and I’m grateful to my father for that. I’ve been playing the game for about 20 years now, 15 as a professional. In that time I’ve acquired a good understanding of coaching.
“With this academy, I want to get children to play cricket again,” said Amla.