Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THREE of Australia’s most respected cricket figures are set to visit Zimbabwe and South Africa next month for Grassroots Cricket’s fourth annual Super Clinics – a transformative youth development programem that fuses high-performance coaching with life skills training.
Former Australian international Trevor Chappell, elite coach Peter Buchanan, and ex-Test bowler and umpire Paul Wilson will headline the clinics, which will be held in Tynwald, Bindura, Marondera in Zimbabwe and Cape Town, South Africa.
The initiative, led by NGO Grassroots Cricket, aims to empower hundreds of young players – particularly from underprivileged communities – with world-class technical skills and personal development tools such as leadership, teamwork and resilience.
“We believe cricket is more than a game – it’s a tool for transformation,” said Tawanda Karasa, founder and director of Grassroots Cricket.
“Our Super Clinics bring elite-level coaching to communities that need it most, while also instilling values that young people can carry for life.”
Since their launch, the clinics have reached over 2 000 children across southern Africa, many of whom had never had access to formal coaching.
This year’s edition will be the biggest yet, with new mentorship circles and dedicated sessions for girls’ cricket.
The involvement of top Australian coaches is a major drawcard.
Chappell, known for his depth of international experience and passion for youth development, said he is excited to connect with Africa’s next generation of cricketers.
Wilson, a former Test and ODI player turned umpire and development coach, brings a unique perspective on the modern game.
Meanwhile, Buchanan – a key figure in building Australia’s Centre of Excellence – will lead sessions focused on mindset, game intelligence and personal growth.
“We’re not just producing better players – we’re producing better people,” added Karasa.
“Our alumni are now representing provinces, coaching younger players, and becoming role models in their communities.”
The Zimbabwe leg of the clinics will cover Tynwald North (Harare), Bindura and Marondera, while Cape Town joins this year’s programme for the first time, marking the growing regional footprint of the initiative.
The programme is supported by Econet Wireless Zimbabwe, but Grassroots Cricket is calling on local businesses and stakeholders to come on board through sponsorship, resources or mentorship partnerships.
“We’re creating real, lasting change,” said Karasa. “But we can’t do it alone. Anyone who believes in youth empowerment through sport is welcome to be part of this journey.”
