ICC to launch its junior coaching programme in UAE

Dubai: As part of plans to spot young talent at grassroots level and to provide training for budding cricketers, the International Cricket Council (ICC) Global Academy, which is located in Dubai Sports City, will launch its junior coaching programme from March 6.

The programme is supported by Al Tayer Motors, Ford Motor Company and Gulf News, who are partners for the programme.

"Cricket is among the top sports played in the UAE, and following the recent success of the Twenty20 international cricket matches held at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, there has been even greater interest from youngsters to learn the basic skills of the game," said Marc Archer, general manager, ICC Global Cricket Academy.

"The coaching programmes will commence from March 6 in Dubai, and March 12 in Abu Dhabi," he added.

Experts

Australian legend Rod Marsh, Pakistan Test star Mudassar Nazar and New Zealand all-rounder Dayle Hadlee will pass on their skills to youngsters.

Marsh, who is the director of coaching at the ICC Global Cricket Academy, will lead the campaign with head coaches Nazar and Hadlee.

Speaking about his plans, Marsh said: "Our coaches have been very involved with local schools, and children have responded extremely well to our programmes. This has given us the opportunity to launch a junior coaching programme that UAE youngsters of all abilities can take part in.

"We expect to receive a large amount of cricket enthusiasts looking to develop their skills and have plenty of fun."

The programme will kicks off at Deira International School (Festival City) in Dubai while the training sessions will start in Abu Dhabi at Al Yasmina School in Khalifa City on March 12.

Interested applicants can email Michelle Kewat at mitchellek@dxbsport.com, or call +971 4 425 1111.