The International Cricket Council has announced the next round of open trials for its Academy Scholarship Programme which gives young athletes the opportunity to develop their game in a high-performance environment.
The trials, part of the ICC’s ongoing mission to unearth the next generation of cricketing talent in the UAE, are set to take place at the ICC Academy in Dubai Sports City on Friday 31st August 2018.
During a day of sessions, ICCA coaching staff will look for players who can perform under pressure, demonstrate a good level of fitness and athleticism and are consistent in their performance and understanding of the game.
The trials are open to both male and female players, with the 13 – 15 year olds session held from 3pm until 5pm with the 15 – 18 year olds in action between 5pm and 7pm. Registration for the trials will be open an hour before each age group session starts.
A full, one-year scholarship will be awarded to the 12 best players. The trials will include a range of drills and skill assessment sessions with players required to demonstrate their ability both in the nets and on the field.
Demand for a place on the ICCA scholarship programme is expected to be very high. To be considered for the programme, players must be able to play hard ball cricket, hold a UAE residency visa, are aged 13-18 and are committed to taking part in a full-time training programme.
Those lucky enough to gain a place on the programme will take part in three training sessions per week at the ICC Academy located in Dubai Sports City. They will have access to world-class facilities, including the Powerbase gym, and receive professional coaching and mentoring by highly trained ICCA staff.
The youngsters will play against local teams in tournaments across the UAE as well as against international teams visiting the ICCA. The programme will also involve the players travelling overseas as part of competitive tours.
Youngsters who are unsuccessful in their bid to win a place on the ICCA scholarship programme but who have demonstrated a high level of cricketing skill, will be considered for a place on the Emerging Player Programme or the ADIB Warriors Programme.
If you would like to find out more about the ICC Academy or its offerings, please visit: www.iccacademy.net, call (+971) 04 448 1355 or e-mail info@iccacademy.net.