– Young cricketers meet their childhood idols
DIGICEL partnered with the Biggest Party in Sport, the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL), to launch its Big Brother programme which bowled off on July 25 in Barbados.
Over 20 young cricketers got a chance to be coached by Barbados Tridents’ assistant coach and player, Vasbert Drakes and Tino Best, respectively.
The young cricketers did not disappoint as they came out with a level of professionalism and skills beyond their years. For the batsmen, their hand-to-eye coordination was impeccable and they showed a variety of different shots in their arsenal. The bowlers also had a few tricks up their sleeves – slower balls, in-swingers and, of course, the famous yorker.
In speaking to the boys, Tino Best said: “I’m impressed with the level of talent you’ve all displayed here today and as we stand here on holy ground (Kensington Oval), I want you all to aim to play right here in a few years in front of 20,000 people — whether it is for Barbados, the Tridents or the West Indies.”
Digicel Head of Sponsorship, Ben Bradley, said: “Firstly, a big round of applause to the coaches, players and our future generation of cricketers. The focus and intensity was there for every second of the training session, which was very encouraging and means we’re definitely off to a great start.”
Interim CEO of the National Sports Council, Jerry Blenman, who attended the launch, said: “We are keen for this Big Brother programme to become a pillar in the development of the future professional cricketers of this region. The ongoing support of Digicel in the areas of sports, youth and culture has been steadfast over the past 13 years here in Barbados and, therefore, commitment to programmes such as this come as no surprise to anyone.”
The Big Brother Programme is phase one in the Digicel/CPL Youth Programme. Phase two of the initiative – Take it to the Streets/Take it to the Beach – starts in August.
Big Brother Clinics Schedule
Country Date
St. Kitts and Nevis July 28
St. Lucia July 29
Guyana July 29
Jamaica July 31
Trinidad and Tobago July 31