ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – Cricket West Indies (CWI) has ignited a daring new chapter in participant growth by drawing on the knowledge and legacy of two of its most iconic figures—Sir Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh—to mentor and encourage the subsequent era of West Indies cricketers.
The initiative, unfolding on the Coolidge Cricket Floor (CCG) in Antigua, types a central pillar in CWI’s participant growth technique and displays a deep perception that “the legacy of our legends should be embraced and utilized to assist form our future success.” With this philosophy, CWI isn’t just preserving historical past—it’s activating it.
Ambrose launches with legacy discuss: ‘You’re a part of an ideal lineage’
The mentorship journey started on Could 21 with a robust Legacy Dialogue led by Sir Curtly Ambrose, probably the most revered quick bowlers in cricket historical past. Earlier than a rapt viewers of West Indies Academy gamers, Ambrose shared private tales and reflections on the golden period of West Indies cricket.
Greater than a historical past lesson, Ambrose’s discuss was a name to function—a vivid reminder that each Academy participant is now a part of a storied custom that instructions excellence, resilience, and pleasure.
“The alternatives you’ve got at this time have been made attainable by the efforts of those that got here earlier than you,” Ambrose advised the group. “You aren’t simply enjoying for yourselves—you might be carrying ahead a legacy that the world respects.”
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Mentorship intensifies: Two titans, one mission
Following the highly effective opening session, the initiative strikes into high-performance territory with two technical mentorship blocks led by the fast-bowling greats:
Could 26–27: Sir Curtly Ambrose returns to steer red-ball, scenario-based coaching, emphasizing match consciousness, tactical decision-making, and psychological toughness—expertise cast within the crucible of elite competitors.
June 2–3: Legendary pacer and present CWI Bowling Mentor Courtney Walsh will conduct a two-day follow match, providing real-time technical suggestions and sharing insights drawn from his huge worldwide expertise.
These immersive classes are designed not solely to refine bodily ability units, however to transmit the intangible attributes—self-discipline, humility, and willpower—that distinguish nice gamers from good ones.
Voices of imaginative and prescient: Why this issues now
CWI Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, emphasised the importance of studying from residing legends:
“There is no such thing as a higher inspiration for our younger gamers than studying instantly from the legends whose names are etched within the historical past of West Indies cricket,” he mentioned. “This initiative not solely enhances their technical expertise but in addition helps instill the values, pleasure, and fervour that outline what it means to put on the maroon.”
Academy head coach Ramesh Subasinghe echoed the sentiment, highlighting how legacy training deepens participant growth:
“Having legends like Sir Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh share their journeys brings a depth of studying that no textbook or coaching guide can provide. It connects our gamers to one thing higher than themselves—it reminds them of the legacy they’re carrying ahead each time they step onto the sphere.”
Subsequent problem: West Indies Academy vs. Sri Lanka
This mentorship initiative comes at an important time for the Academy, because the staff prepares to host Sri Lanka’s counterparts in a multi-format collection in Antigua. The competitors contains: Two four-day first-class matches at Coolidge Cricket Floor, three 50-over matches on the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium.
Armed with elite steerage and a deeper understanding of their heritage, the Academy gamers are poised to take the sphere not solely with improved ability however with renewed pleasure and function.
