Dubai: Budding cricketers from the G Force Academy returned from a tour of the United Kingdom after gaining crucial exposure that could give a huge boost to their prospects.
The youngster were taught the art of playing long hours of cricket, and how to correct their mistakes through matches as wells as practice sessions, during 150 hours of action over 14 days.
Gopal Jasapara, the head coach of the academy, told Gulf News: “We gave the boys an experience similar to a professional cricketer by doing everything associated with the game to improve their outlook as well as approach to the game.
“We made sure everyone played a minimum of 15 matches through a cricket festival tournament for the under-14 and under-16 age groups, then trained in outdoor and indoor facilities. Finally, to inspire them, we took them on a tour of the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground.”
Another highlight of the tour was a seven-day coaching session from Ian Trott, father of England Test star Jonathan.
“Ian Trott is one of the finest coaches in England and we had coaching sessions for all age groups through two sessions a day. Level three coaches Marc Coody, Paul Harrison and John Fry also sharpened the skills of the boys,” Jasapara said.
The G Force under-11s played four matches against local teams from Surrey. Nine-year-old Arnav Kambli caught the eye with his stylish batting, while Carlin Joy, Jash Ginyani, Ishan Thakur, Haroon Khan, Harshit Sheth and Yash Barot also impressed.
At under-14s level, the tourists played a tournament against In-touch Cricket Academy, Old Ghifts and East Birkshire and bagged the runners-up trophy. Krishna Lakhani won the best player award, with Aayush Walia and Nikhil Pancholi emerging as star performers.
London Warriors, In Touch Cricket Academy, a South Africa Invitational XI, East Berkshire and Salop Nomads from Shrewsbury were the opposition for the under-16s. Shishir Bhatia bagged the player of the tournament award and Lakhani, Aayan Mehta and Aditya Mysore also playing well.
