Ryan Sidebottom is coaching U-17 fast bowlers in Karachi. The camp, focusing on all-round skills, runs until February 12
Former England Test fast bowler Ryan Sidebottom has started training young fast bowlers as part of a cricket coaching project in Pakistan. Sidebottom believes that Pakistan has a lot of quality fast bowlers.
The cricket coaching project is being held at the Hanif Muhammad High-Performance Centre in Karachi, where U-17 cricketers are participating in the first phase.
Under the supervision of four elite foreign coaches, players are focusing on batting, bowling, fielding, and fitness drills.
The foreign coaches include Ryan Sidebottom from England, Siyabonga Sibiya from South Africa, Ryan Maron, Scott McClenaghan from New Zealand, and renowned English physiotherapist Javed Mughal. PCB’s Head of Youth Development, Azhar Ali, is also present at the camp.
The second phase of the cricket coaching project will involve U-19 players and will run until February 8.
Ryan Sidebottom, the former England fast bowler, expressed his happiness about returning to Pakistan, saying, "I am really happy to be back in Pakistan, and I’m enjoying every moment here. The people are great, and the food is amazing." He first visited Pakistan 20 years ago.
He also praised the immense talent in Pakistani cricket, adding, "The boys here are very eager to learn. This camp is not only focusing on batting, bowling, and fielding, but also on other aspects of the game."
Sidebottom emphasized that he has kept his bowling simple, focusing on the fundamentals. "My goal is to make sure players challenge themselves in every net session," he said.
He shared that the players often ask him questions about how to grip the ball and swing it, calling it a great experience for him as a coach.
The former English fast bowler also acknowledged that Pakistan has always produced great fast bowlers, adding, "Wasim Akram is my hero because I am also a left-arm fast bowler."
The U-17 players’ camp will continue until February 12, after which the U-19 cricketers will begin their training.