Peter Tanyanyiwa
Peter Tanyanyiwa
Sports Reporter
A WAVE of excitement swept through the Tynwald Campus of Mother Touch Group of Schools this week as Australian cricket legends — Paul Wilson, Peter Buchanan, and Trevor Chappell – led a two-day Grassroots Cricket Clinic.
They offered local students a rare opportunity to learn from some of the sport’s most accomplished figures.
The clinic, held on Wednesday and yesterday, was part of the ongoing efforts by the non-profit Grassroots Cricket initiative to empower Zimbabwean youth through sport.
The event drew dozens of aspiring cricketers from across Harare, eager to refine their skills ahead of the upcoming third-term cricket season — a crucial period in Zimbabwe’s school sports calendar.
The presence of Wilson, Buchanan, and Chappell brought international gravitas to the clinic.
Wilson, a former Australian Test and ODI fast bowler, has become a respected coach and international umpire. He is renowned for his technical acumen and player development skills.
Peter Buchanan, best known for coaching Australia to two consecutive ICC Cricket World Cup victories (2003,2007), is celebrated for his analytical approach and innovative training methods.
Trevor Chappell, a member of Australia’s famous cricketing family, played at the highest level and has dedicated much of his post-playing career to youth coaching and grassroots development.
“Having coaches of this calibre in Zimbabwe is a game-changer for our students,” said Salome Mutsinze, Mother Touch Group of Schools CEO.
“Their experience at the pinnacle of world cricket, combined with their passion for nurturing young talent, has inspired our learners to dream bigger and work harder.”
Buchanan said:“Our aim is not just to develop cricketers, but to help shape future leaders. Sport teaches lessons that go far
beyond the field —about integrity, collaboration, and striving for excellence.”
The clinic comes at a critical time for Zimbabwean school cricket, which, despite its rich tradition, faceschallenges such as limited resources, few competitive matches, and a need for more systematic talent development.
Initiatives like the Grassroots Cricket Clinic are seen as vital for bridging these gaps, providing both exposure and inspiration to young players.Grassroots Cricket, founded by Australia-based Zimbabwean Tawanda Karasa, has been at the forefront of using cricket as a tool for social change, particularly in marginalised communities.
derick.khumalo