A slightly ropey nights sleep for the team as the whole of the Lira seemed to be partying and celebrating the Spanish victory in the European championships. When I woke up there was still hard-core African tunes blaring into my hotel room.

The day’s coaching started with the usual relaxed approach to the 10am start from the teachers. My urging for them to “be faithful” to the start time still not proving effective. I might start with “abstain” from being late, but not sure that is really going to cut the mustard. It is hard in Lira with its sleepy weather and non-existent traffic to take things too seriously. The three of us are now so much more relaxed as a result.

Given that the coaches had never seen cricket until a few days ago they are taking huge steps. I particularly enjoyed teaching a new generation of African coaches the benefits of a measured forward defensive. They seemed much more at home giving the ball a great big whack down the leg side though. They got the link between protecting your wicket and protecting your status, as well as taking guard and knowing your status. We definitely think the AIDS awareness messages are getting through, though one remark from George one of the coaches might suggest some work is needed. I asked why it was that we want boys and girls playing together, somewhat surprisingly George said it was because “women are slow learners and need to learn from men”. This prompted Harriet, one of the female coaches to give George a verbal lashing that continued for several minutes on the walk back to the stand. I don’t think George will take on Harriet again!

Huge tropical rains this afternoon almost put an end to the Afternoon’s session, but the incredible thing about African rain, apart from its almost biblical intensity is how quickly it passes and dries. A quick demo of pairs cricket, complete with umpire signals, including the African 4, a much slower and relaxed move of the arm from left to right.

If you want to really know why we are here watch the inspirational words of one of the teachers, Patrick talking about his hopes for the North and post-war reconstruction. That’s why we do what we do.