Day 4

Another fun-filled, busy day. For me, the key words on this trip are adaptability, patience, and teamwork, all of which were evident throughout this grueling day.

Our first session was at Makuyo High School, which has over 600 children aged 11 to 16. We ran three sessions, starting at 10:30 and wrapping up around 13:15.

Most of the children had only recently been introduced to cricket, but their hand-eye coordination was something to behold—such natural talent. What impressed me most was how each group had its own leaders. One such leader was Bilal, a 15-year-old who listened intently. When others struggled during the quick-fire game, he quietly helped by correcting their bat grip, encouraging them to focus and execute. This really showed me the excellent work Mithias and Nicko are doing in this region, fostering leadership qualities.

Of course, among the 500 older students present, there were a few who were rowdy, misbehaving in an attempt to appear “cool.” But this shouldn’t be overly dramatized. The bigger picture is that CWB and the local coaches are fostering a love of the game and building friendships. The joy on a child’s face when they hit a clean shot makes it all worthwhile.

With three high-intensity sessions on one of the hottest days yet, all the coaches had to be on point. Our original plans had to be adjusted because the kids couldn’t be released at the scheduled times due to local state exams—something for CWB to consider for future trips, perhaps?

The bond within our CWB team was clear, with everyone looking out for one another, fetching drinks, replenishing equipment, and generally working together seamlessly. Verity and Sorcha leading the introductions and conclusions was a great call, reinforcing CWB’s message of equality. The focus on everyone enjoying cricket, while also raising awareness about AIDS prevention, was powerfully communicated.

A Special Midday Break

Our midday break was a real treat. We went to Mathias’ home in Mihango, where his family owns a plot of land that houses three homes for four families. I had the pleasure of chatting with Mithias’ father, a humble man whose family makes a living from hard work on the land. He strongly encouraged his children to pursue a sound education, and the results are evident.

Mathias’ wife and sister-in-law prepared an amazing meal for us: rice, roti, potato curry, salad, and bananas. We also met Gary, Mithias’ two-year-old son, who was named after our esteemed CWB colleague in the UK.

Mathias showed us his enterprising nature, explaining how he has learned to cultivate mushrooms. He’s even created a dark room where he prepares his crop, which he now sells at local markets. What a talented man!

Back to Coaching

We concluded the day by heading back to Ndera Primary School, where we coached local community children. This session was advertised locally by Mithias and Nicko as an additional training slot, which normally runs on Fridays. We coached a mix of boys and girls aged 7 to 13.

About 190 kids showed up, and the session ran from 3 PM to 4 PM. Once again, the talent on display was remarkable, with abilities ranging from beginners to highly skilled. We ran five stations—two game-based, two rapid-fire drills, and Nicko took some of the more talented kids for intense fielding practice.

A particularly emotional moment for me was meeting a 12-year-old girl named Sarah, who had brought along her 5-year-old sister, whom she fiercely protected. No one messed with Sarah! When I asked her where her mother was, she simply said, “Mother is still working.” That said it all, and it really put things into perspective for me.

Another exhausting but fulfilling day. Kudos to all the coaches and to our incredible local ambassadors, Mithias and Nicko. In my humble opinion, the CWB program is delivering on its objectives—and long may it continue.

Anil Karia