Grassroots development is the spine behind the sustenance of any sport and for Cricket, the story is much the same. Ahead of the National Youth Games slated from the 21st to 30th of September 2023 in Asaba Delta State, The Board of the Nigeria Cricket Federation led by Mr. Uyi Akpata, on behalf of the Federation has donated playing equipment to all the participating states that will be featuring during the games.
This timely intervention is in line with the first of the 5 key strategic pillars of development by the Board of the NCF which is *‘’Promoting the game of Cricket at all levels (Male/Female) through grassroots development in the six geo-political zones “*. Also, this donation will ensure that participating states will have the standard high-quality equipment to facilitate the tournament and also take back home which in turn guarantees that these states now possess the right equipment to continue training for their youngsters, especially with the National Under-17 championship in sight.
*Items donated are:*
*1. 30 junior batting gloves*
*2. 10 junior batting pads*
*3. 5 Junior Wicket keeper’s glove*
*4. 30 youth bats*
*5. 40 youth gloves*
Other equipment expected as part of the donations include more junior pads, Helmets, thigh guards, etc.
For the tournament, The Board has also donated *18 packs of balls* to ensure its smooth execution.
The presentation of these equipment by Mr. Uyi Akpata on behalf of the Board which spills in millions of Naira, comes on the backdrop of the discussion with the Chairman of the Development Committee Sir. Chika Okoro with the aim of balancing the development structure of the game across all areas.
13 states drawn across the 6 geo-political zones including the host are expected to participate at this year’s National Youth Games in both male and female categories. Cricket will feature 3 events which are the One Day 50 overs, T-20 and 6-A-Side.
*MUSA EHIZOJE BODIE*
*PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER*
*NIGERIA CRICKET FEDERATION*