Cricket Fiji Prepares Under-19 Team with High-Performance Coach

Cricket Fiji has engaged Sanjiv Dubey, an esteemed high-performance coach from Australia, for a short-term training camp aimed at maximizing the potential of the national Under-19 cricket team. This initiative is pivotal as the team prepares for the East Asia Pacific World Cup qualifiers set to take place in Japan this upcoming April.

The training camp commenced on January 8 at Albert Park in Suva and is scheduled to conclude on January 25. During this period, local coaches are assisting Dubey, who emphasized a comprehensive approach to reinforce the players’ skills. He stated, “It’s about improving Cricket Fiji’s profile in international cricket, and it will only happen if we do a lot of homework,” indicating the commitment to long-term development beyond just participation in tournaments.

Dubey is entering his third year with Cricket Fiji, and he reflects on his experiences with the young athletes, highlighting their humble nature and eagerness to learn. “The energy and the learning are at the highest level when one works with good, humble, and simple people,” he shared. His focus during the camp centers on refining core skills, with an aim for the players to perform with a professional demeanor when competing internationally.

In a significant move to promote inclusivity in the sport, the training camp is also open to female players who are participating in the 2024/25 Women’s T20 League competition. This initiative not only prepares the Under-19 players for upcoming challenges but also fosters an environment conducive to both male and female cricketers learning and growing together.

In summary, this training camp is not merely a preparation for an international event; it represents a commitment to nurturing talent and striving for excellence in cricket within Fiji. With an experienced mentor at the helm, this initiative is expected to yield promising results, potentially elevating the country’s cricket landscape on the global stage. The future looks bright for the development of cricket in Fiji as they continue to build a strong foundation for their young players.