MUSCAT: Oman Cricket's relentless commitment to providing world-class coaching to young cricket enthusiasts in the Sultanate of Oman has manifested in the success of the third edition of the Gary Kirsten Camp (GKC).
The four-day camp, held at the Oman Cricket Academy (OCA) grounds in Al Amerat recently, witnessed a satisfactory turnout, with a total of 46 players, including 26 in the under-14 category and the rest in the under-19 group.
Evert Laubscher, Oman Cricket Academy (OCA) manager, said, "The third GKC edition turned out to be a success with a good number of participants attending."
He highlighted the consistent progress observed in the young cricketers who participated, a testament to the effectiveness of the world-class coaching provided.
The camp featured distinguished coaches from the Gary Kirsten Centre (GKC), including Jimmy Cook and Garreth Von Hoesslin.
Assisted by four OCA coaches, the GKC coaches emphasised the development of match temperament, organising four T20 matches at the Al Amerat grounds for the under-19 cricketers.
Laubscher noted that the players gained valuable experience facing match situations, contributing to the enhancement of their cricketing skills.
Alkesh Joshi, OC treasurer, was impressed with the growing success of the GKC, noting that many children attended for the third time, underlying the enduring benefits of such world-class camps.
He stated, "Our goal is to ensure top-class coaching for young cricketers in Oman, and the positive response to the GKC aligns with this objective."
Joshi revealed the board's eagerness to continue the partnership with Gary Kirsten, with plans for the next camp in early 2024.
He said, "We hope to build on this excellent partnership, which is helping our players develop into better players."
The success of the GKC camps has been a consistent theme since October 2022 when OC first collaborated with the renowned South African cricketer Gary Kirsten.
Notably, the second camp in February 2023 saw Gary Kirsten personally visiting Muscat, and lauding the commitment of OC in providing top-class lessons for Omani cricketers.
During Kirsten's maiden visit, he highlighted the pivotal role of parents in nurturing young cricketers.
Since his retirement in 2004, Kirsten, a former opening batter, has dedicated himself to running GKC, coaching international teams and franchises, achieving significant success, including leading India to a World Cup title in 2011 and mentoring Gujarat Titans to inaugural success in IPL 2022.
Oman Cricket looks forward to the continued success of its partnership with Gary Kirsten, aiming to further elevate the skills and potential of Oman cricketers through future editions of the Gary Kirsten Camp.
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