Cricket course in Lesotho

A cricket course was recently held in Assumption High School, Lesotho, conducted by Graham McMillan and was attended by nine people. At the end of each module, participants were expected to conduct roles explained during the course and the systems introduced to them with regards to admin systems; basic strategic planning process; effective club admin system; understanding of basic accounting procedures; budget and a cash-flow projection; basic principles of marketing and communication; basic fundraising strategy as well as a basic understanding of dealing with sponsors.

In addition, an academy for juniors was held between September 16 and 18 in which Under-13 and Under-17s participated. The group were reported to be “very enthusiastic”, but a number of problems were discovered.

Their basic fielding was poor, due to no opportunity to practice on smooth outfields. And only about seven boys were identified to possess the necessary skills in which to progress. “I feel that no confidence has been created in an initial softball cricket programme,” McMillan said. “If they are introduced to softball cricket, and at the appropriate age group (i.e. six to ten years), then the boys will be taught the basic batting skills and these would be reinforced in the three years after in a continues yet safe softball programme.”

“Thabiso Mohapi was head and shoulders the best cricketer. Watching the game on Saturday morning, the keeper could not stop his balls and batsmen opted to get out of the way of the lightening bolts and run byes!”