The National Cricket Academy (NCA) conducted a month long camp for Under-19 girls in Guntur from July 8 to August 7, 2016. The annual camp was aimed at sharpening the skills of a select group of participants from the five zones. Besides interactive sessions and drills, the 25 young women played practice matches as they trained under the watchful eyes of coaches – Anju Jain, Pushpanjali Banerjee and Suman Sharma. Emphasis was laid on tailoring the coaching to individual requirements of the cricketers as they work towards preparing for the forthcoming season. While speaking to BCCI.TV after the conclusion of the camp, Anju Jain explained, “We worked on skills with the girls. Video analysis and assessments were done for individuals. We focused on having individual programs for the players, so that (we can address) whatever areas they need to work on or improve upon. In zonals (zonal camps basic) corrections and adjustments were given priority. At the NCA camp we had one-on-one interview sessions with the girls to know what they have been working on and accordingly we did the analysis and planned their drills etc. so that it is in continuation of what they have been doing.” “The effort was to take forward what was done in the zonal camps. Also, there were few practice matches – three one-day games and one two-day match to help prepare for the season as well,” she added. Banerjee, who worked with the girls on fielding aspect, said: “We worked with the participants on different variations (in the various aspects of the game). For example- in fielding we focussed a little more on things like sliding, diving etc. since the basics are already done so we worked on sharpening those skills.”

“While working on the bowling skills areas like alignment and balance during the run-up and such aspects were worked upon” Suman Sharma said. “We work on imparting tactical, technical knowledge as well as prepare them for the mental and physical aspects” she added while echoing her colleagues.

“We also held lectures on adapting to different conditions, attitude, approach, preparation and planning throughout (the year),” Banerjee stated. The coaches mentioned that the overall response was good and there are quite a few good prospects. List of participants: