Young Barbadian cricketers meet England stars at "Cricket for Good" clinic

Bridgetown, Barbados - Over 50 children from four Barbadian primary schools got a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to learn from and interact with international cricket stars from the England Cricket Team. The event, held at the historic Kensington Oval, was part of the Cricket for Good programme, a UNICEF and International Cricket Council (ICC) initiative.

"The clinic is a wonderful opportunity for us to get together to appreciate what cricket can teach us and explore the benefits of play which are critical to your development," said UNICEF Representative for the Eastern Caribbean, Pieter Bult, highlighting the importance of play for children's well-being. "The right to play itself is written into the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child," he added.

The Cricket for Good programme goes beyond just cricket skills. While children received coaching in batting, bowling, and fielding, they also learned valuable life lessons like the importance of good nutrition, maintaining a positive mindset, safety, and respecting others' privacy.

Barbadian fast bowler Jofra Archer, who plays for England, wasn't just there to coach. He interacted with the youngsters, signed autographs, and shared his optimism for their future. "The clinic was really good," Archer said. "There are some really budding fast bowlers and no doubt in a few years, some of these guys will be playing first class cricket for Barbados and hopefully the West Indies."

Adil Rashid, another England player, echoed Archer's sentiments, expressing his joy at seeing the children's passion for the game.

Students from St Stephen's Primary, West Terrace Primary, Good Shepherd Primary and Welches Primary schools all participated in the event.

11-year-old Rojahni Cox from St Stephens Primary summarized the experience perfectly: "Cricket is not just about batting and bowling, it's about respecting your teammates and staying healthy."