Phase two of the GKC High Performance Academy got underway on 9 January with after a two-week break during the festive season.
Six more players have joined the Ryan Cook led programme which offers exclusive interactions with Kirsten and other top coaches as well as one-on-ones with world renowned professionals from a variety of different backgrounds.
“The players come from around the world so some opted to go home for the festive season while others decided to stay and enjoy the fruits of Cape Town,” Cook said.
The new boys in the camp have hit the ground running and will join the rest of the group as the programme now shifts towards a focus on the shorter formats of the game.
Limited Overs Focus
“This cycle is predominantly aimed at the limited overs formats of the game in which the ability to upskill to the modern game’s pace and expertise is of paramount importance,” Cook explained.
The team have already played their first competitive match against Stellenbosch University at Coetzenburg.
The programme also focuses on life-skills. Cook says the aim is not to just have these players leave as better cricketers but also better people.
“The players have been treated to the sights and sounds of the world class city of Cape Town and have already been up Lions Head and De Villiers Dam as part of their ‘Mountain Madness’ physical training and life experience,” Cook explained.
They have also contributed to the Gary Kirsten Foundation by coaching in Khayalitsha during the High Performance sessions on a Friday.
“It is always an enriching experience to see how willing these young players are to give their time and expertise to those less fortunate than themselves, Cook said.
The programme draws to an ends on the 28 February.
