North West set up professional camp

North West Cricket are holding a camp in Potchefstroom in December for professionals. Fifteen players have so far signed up for what the former Netherlands bowling coach Ian Pont, who is leading the camp, claims "is a viable alternative to the MRF camp in Chennai for fast bowlers, and the WCA in Mumbai for batsmen".

"South African conditions are closer to English ones," Pont told Cricinfo, "and Potchefstroom additonally offers high-altitude training, with exceptional strength and conditioning facilities at North West University."

The camp has so far attracted seven English players, all from Northants - where David Capel, who will help out on the course, is head coach. He, Pont and the former Leicestershire player Gordon Parsons will look after the bowling, while Gary Kirsten, Monty Jacobs and Alex Cilliers will coach batting skills. Dr Jaco Peens is leading fielding and fitness.

The week-long camp will take place at Sedgars Park from December 5 and costs $1000. There are still a few places up for grabs.