First winner of fast bowler search announced
Nashua’s exciting project to develop new cricket talent, Art of Fast Bowling, has yielded its first winner.
The Nashua art of fast bowling initiative has come to a close following the recent final testing at SuperSport Park, where 11 talented young South Africans had the opportunity to realise their cricketing dreams.
The programme seeks to find the best fast bowler.
And Gauteng East matriculant, Altus Pretorius, from Hoërskool Dr. EG Jansen emerged victorious with a bowling average speed of 131km/h. Pretorius has been playing cricket since he was seven years old, and is eager to pursue a career in the sport.
“I am incredibly honoured to have won. I entered the competition simply hoping to improve my skills so I could try out for the Eastern team in Benoni – and got so much more,” says Pretorius, “I am looking forward to learning the Titans’ approach to the game – my goal is to play for them and, possibly, even the Proteas one day.”
Pretorius’ prize includes a day shadowing the Titans as 13th man during an upcoming match, as well as an iPad Air and a voucher from Centurion Cricket Company.
“Fast bowling is a natural skill which, through expert guidance and determination, can become a formidable asset for any cricket team. We hope this win propels Altus to further success in his cricketing career. Any team would be lucky to have this determined young player,” said Nashua Tshwane MD, Bennie Oosthuizen.
Over 550 primary school players and 229 high school boys received training by professionals through a series of sports clinics during the bowling initiative.
The programme has successfully created a scouting pool for professional cricket – ensuring young players are given the training and opportunity to play at the highest level.
In addition, to rewarding young local talent, The art of fast bowling also recognised the hard work of school coaches by presenting five outstanding coaches with the Golden Wicket awards.
In light of the initiative’s notable success, it has been nominated for the Sport Development Programme of the Year at the esteemed Discovery Sport Industry awards, in February.
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