The Sunday Mail
Brighton Zhawi
Former Zimbabwe Cricket international player Edward Rainsford says he is committed to support upcoming talent and also uplift the lives of kids from his hometown of Kadoma
The 32-year-old former pace bowler was speaking during the fifth edition of the Kadoma Cricket Development coaching clinic for selected primary schools held at Kadoma Sports Club last week.
“We all understand things are pretty tough, but I would say it’s a success because all the kids came out and enjoyed that’s the most important thing to me,” he said.
“They came out and enjoyed themselves and had a good day.”
Rainsford said they are already planning for a bigger program for the cricket-loving kids of Kadoma.
“I am hoping to do an under 19 tournament late this year.
“That will be more for a select few players like the really high performance players that will come out and play the best possible cricket,” he said.
Having grown up in what he described as ‘tough’ conditions himself, Rainsford, feels the need to help other lives in his best possible way.
“Also I really want to try and sponsor especially the youngest guys, try to take a bit of pressure off their parents by giving them the best opportunity of going to school.
“So am looking into sponsoring at least ten kids in terms of school fees in from the high density areas for a year and try to give them an opportunity to excel in everything else.
“(I would like) to allow their parents to concentrate on giving them a better opportunity anywhere else,” he said.
The coaching clinic was also graced by Zimbabwe Cricket National Schools and Age group manager Nick Singo who hailed Kadoma for their continued support of grassroots cricket.
“I would like to commend Rainsford and his family and everyone else involved in such an important program,” he said.
“The last time I was here, Carl Mumba was a small boy attending such a program and I remember I told the guys to take note of him because we saw he was a talent, look where he is now.
“I believe another star will emerge from this event as well,” Singo said.
The coaching clinic was also conducted by Zimbabwe cricket team players Carl Mumba, Tary Musakanda, Neville Madziva amongst other coaches and players from Kadoma. 0772936678.
