THE MCC Foundation Mount Kelly Hub is continuing to thrive and helping to develop young male and female cricketers in Devon and Cornwall.

The hub, now in its fifth year, delivers high quality cricket provision for state-educated young players.

A team of four experienced coaches deliver a 10-week programme to 48 participants over two programmes, including technical batting, bowling, wicket-keeping and fielding.

Suitable strength and conditioning is covered and for the final hour of every session there is a themed match allowing all to put into practise their new found skills and develop tactically.

“It is a credit to the coaches that they are able to provide sufficient structure and coaching with a variety of activities to keep the children interested and excited about the training,” said one parent.

“The coaches manage to combine this with gentle discipline and a hugely positive approach.  Their sense of playful humour and calm positive attitude provides excellent role models for all.”

Another added: “I feel that the MCC hub has made a very positive impact on my son’s confidence and ability to play cricket.  He is proud to be part of the Hub and looks forward to future training and matches.”

The 54 hubs are a fundamental pathway to many county cricket development programmes and are recognised across the UK.

Hub manager and lead coach Brenden Worth said: “Whilst the sessions are designed to be fun and engaging, it is so rewarding to see how boys and girls of various abilities, from south Devon, east Devon, west Devon, north and east Cornwall, all come together in making new friendships. The girls have added a new and exciting dimension to the programme and we look forward to representing the Mount Kelly Hub in the summer matches.”

Bobby Skelton, Mount Kelly director of sport added: “It is great to see that the Mount Kelly Hub continues to create opportunities for young aspiring cricketers in our local community to develop their game through a high level of coaching.”

Expressions of interest for future programmes can be made to brendenworth@me.com