DCA trainees get English exposure

Hyderabad: Six boys from Daniels Cricket Academy (DCA), who are on an ‘educational’ and exposure tour of the United Kingdom, seem to be having the time of their life as not only are they getting to hone their skills under overseas coaches but they are also getting a feel of the competitive challenges they face from their peers belonging to several countries.

Accompanied by the Academy founder-chief coach, Daniel Kanaparthi, the six have been joined by scores of others from across West Indies, Dubai, Malaysia, South Africa, England, United States and Switzerland.

The international coaching programme is being overseen by former England Test player Mathew haggard. Level 4 qualified Ben Smith, who is Ireland's batting and fielding coach, is handling the two departments while the crucial physical fitness aspects are being taken care of by Maurice.

Young hopefuls from the Caribbean are undergoing training that is being spearheaded by former Pakistan off-spinner Saqlain Mushtaq.

In order to help the youngsters get some practical exposure, the organisers are conducting tournaments for the trainees.

In his observation of the progress and the benfits the trainees are reaping, Daniel said, ‘the programme is being conducted in a highly professional manner. It is a good learning outing for all the boys who have gathered here because getting to play in English conditions will be a major boost to the future prospects of the youngsters.

The boys are delighted at the way things are shaping up. I am in full agreement with their plea that such programmes ought to be held in Hyderabad, at least as exchange programmes.

I hope all academies will do something in this direction.’

The six DCA trainees include Govind Kaustub, Shashi S, Sri Charan, TN Mohith, Sriven Sachit and Abhishek Chavan.