Wenslus Murape
Blessing Malinganiza
The Elton Chigumbura Cricket Academy will hold a tournament during the Heroes and Defence Forces holidays at Prince Edward grounds.
The tournament, which is restricted to age groups of under-nine to under-16, will see several teams drawn from different parts of the country, competing.
Ngoni Mutasa, one of the coaches at the academy, said the tourney aims to nurture talent by giving them a competitive platform at a young age.
“The Elton Chigumbura cricket academy tournament is on the 12th and 13th of August, which is Heroes and Defence Forces Day.
“It’s for age groups of between Under 11 to Under-16, both boys and girls, and it’s open to teams from different parts of the country.
“The idea is to give these youngsters a platform to feel the competitive part of this beautiful game. Yes, we have been nurturing them, taking them through the ropes during our training sessions, but we believe there is a need for them to compete, which is also part of the learning process,” said Mutasa.
The tournament will be conducted in a T-10 format with preparations now at an advanced stage, at least according to organisers.
“We have been planning with T-20 in mind, but it’s most likely to be reduced to 10 overs, which I think is enough for these aspiring cricketers to compete and learn a lot.”
The Elton Chigumbura Academy, one of the biggest in the country, conducts clinics every Saturdays at Harare Sports Club and Takashinga Sports Club in Highfield.
Mutasa said the turnout at their training sessions is inspiring, and they are also happy with the development of the aspiring stars.
“The turnout at our training clinics has always been pushing us to do more.
“We have different age groups, and we have children from as early as five years. Our mantra is simple, catch them young.
“The development we are seeing is inspiring, and we also want to thank the parents for the support they are giving us.
“They are always here (at training) with their kids;” he said
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter