Five CSNICC youth players had the trip of a lifetime recently with the NCU to Chennai in India.
They were part of a squad of 18 boys from the NCU region who were joined on the trip by three experienced coaches including Knights Coach Simon Johnston, as well as Jonny Parker and Chris Taylor. The tour was from 8th to 18th Feb and took in various training camps. They had the opportunity to hear coaches from CSK Academy discuss their philosophies on playing spin, bowling spin, and their overall cricketing strategies. These valuable insights will be sure to keep our players constantly thinking about their game as their careers develop.
A few thoughts from our players on their experience.
Harry Dyer
‘I loved my time in India for many reasons, one of them being the culture of cricket there. They really do live and breathe it, which is amazing to experience. I was lucky enough to play a local match in their league. It was a real eye opener to see how they go about their club cricket compared to how we do and how I can learn from it. I hope to bring this into some aspects of my own game during the season.’
Seb Yeates
‘I really enjoyed my time in India. It was my first time playing cricket outside of the UK. I really enjoyed playing cricket in the heat of India. I found the trip very beneficial as it has helped me to develop my options against spin. It leaves me feeling a lot more confident playing spin for the season ahead.’
Luka Bates
‘I really enjoyed experiencing the different types of pitches and the different black and red soil pitches, the culture was different which I enjoyed being a part of for 10 days. The food was different also much more spicy than expected but I was able to get used to it after a couple of days.’
Marko Bates
‘Going to India was a once in a lifetime experience. Everything from the hotel staff being amazing, the coaches passing on their knowledge and just seeing their way of life. I would have to say though my favourite part was playing in the different conditions (heat / turning wickets), finding out how to score runs and keep on top of the match.’
Matthew Kennedy
‘I was fortunate to experience a 10-day training camp in Chennai, India with the NCU. I experienced batting and bowling in somewhat challenging and different conditions. I am now really looking forward to developing these skills in the upcoming season with our club cricket.’
Full Squad
Adam Heasley
Alex Armstrong
Alexander Ogle
Ben Walsh
Cameron Wilson
Daniel Rayner
David Agnew
Elliot Parkhill
Harry Dyer
Hridhaan Salian
Jack Smyth
Jacob McClure-Dalzell
Lucas McKeown
Luka Bates
Marko Bates
Matthew Kennedy
Robbie McCollam
Seb Yeates
A big thank you to all involved at Northern Cricket Union for organising this trip of a lifetime which we’re sure will have created lasting memories for all those involved.
CSNICC 