For budding cricketers in the UAE, here’s your chance to be taught by Gary Kirsten when the South African holds his coaching clinics in Dubai next month.

The 2011 World Cup winning coach will host a two-day masterclass session on November 21 and 22 at Coverdrive Sports Academy, compromising of one-on-one and group sessions.

 

Only 20 spots are available and to be selected, each cricketer will be invited for a free one-hour trial at Coverdrive.

“Gary Kirsten certainly has a lot of experience in the game and has worked with some big names in cricket,” said Kobus Olivier, owner of Pro Coach, which is organising the clinic.

“The last time Gary was here we had 40 people in Dubai but he only wants to work with 20 this year. So we are inviting the children for a one-on-one trial where I will see them in practice and then send the video to Gary Kirsten in Cape Town for his consideration.

“Those who are selected for the two-day clinic will receive an official invite from Gary Kirsten to say they have been accepted.”

Given Kirsten has worked with superstars like Sachin Tendulkar, Graeme Smith and Kevin Pietersen, Olivier is expecting there will be a strong interest as his last visit to Dubai was hugely popular.

“Following last year, he said he wants the best cricketers,” he said. “The first day will be a group session led by Gary, myself and Ryan Cook (both Level Three coaches). And on the second day, Gary will work one-on-one with all 20 boys throughout the whole day.”

Having known Kirsten for more than 10 years, while being team-mates in South Africa during their playing days, Olivier insists there are plenty of positives to gain from signing up.

“What Gary wants to achieve is that he wants to make a difference to how children play,” he said.

“After the first day, they must go home  and feel they have learnt something valuable. It’s not just meeting Gary Kirsten.

“After the clinic, Gary will still be in contact with the 20 boys and after reviewing video footage on a regular basis, he will give tips on how to improve. I think this is what makes this clinic stand out from the rest.”

He added: “He’s worked with some great players like Rahul Dravid and Sachin Tendulkar and he will be passing on his extensive knowledge to some promising cricketers in the UAE. It’s one not to be missed.”

So hurry up and give it a go.

What: Gary Kirsten Coaching Clinic
Where: Coverdrive Sports Academy, Dubai
When: November 21 and 22.
Contact: To book a one-hour free trial or for more information, email kobus25@hotmail.com