Chigumbura launches cricket academy

02 May, 2021 - 00:05 0 Views
Chigumbura launches cricket academy

The Sunday Mail

Brighton Zhawi

The sight of Elton Chigumbura coaching his 11-year old son Elroy at Takashinga Cricket Club in Highfield is quite endearing.

The setting could not have been better as it is here the older Chigumbura’s career started.

With his international cricket career in the rear-view now, the 35-year-old has embarked on a brand new innings with the launch of the Elton Chigumbura Academy.

His son Elroy is one of the many kids who are part of this project.

The academy opened its doors yesterday, starting off with two training sessions first at Old Hararians and then at Takashinga.

“I am happy with the turnout; having more than 50 kids is really a good start,” said Chigumbura.

“It was important to start, and the real work starts now.

“We have our two centres and I am glad we have kids of all age groups.

“The academy is open to all kids aged between six and 19, and for the Under 23s we will be looking at those with potential to break into franchise teams.”

Mountaineers leg-spinner Bright “Blinky” Chipungu and Tashinga Musekiwa of Rhinos are also part of the academy.

The former Zimbabwe captain wants to spread the game across the country.

“Everyone is welcome.

“Beginners are welcome, and we are not just only looking at the elite.

“Kids from all backgrounds are embraced in this academy.”

Commenting on his son’s progress, Chgumbura said: “It’s hard to coach him because sometimes he will think we are at home and its nothing serious.

“That father-son relationship: it’s not always easy, so I am treating him just like the rest of the kids.

“However, I am quite happy that he loves the sport.

“He has potential and I will push him.”

Chigumbura is grateful to several partners who are supporting his project.

Support staff include former Eagles spinner Keith Kulinga, who is the performance analyst.

Eagles’ coaches Eric Chauluka and Johnson Marumisa are also part of the technical team.

Former Zimbabwe Cricket women’s team batter Susan Kudzibata, Eagles bowler Kuziva Ziwira and Zindi Zindalo are also part of the technical team, and so is former Zimbabwe Cricket team physiotherapist Anesu Mupotaringa.

Speaking on the sidelines of the training sessions, Mupotaringa said educating aspiring young cricketers on potential injuries is important.

“It is important to educate players on the importance of injury prevention and injury management for them to perform at their optimum levels.”

 

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