Sharing cricket and so much more

An Indian sportsman has brought a group of cricketers from the subcontinent to South Africa to improve their game.

Pelican Sports, a cricketing side from New Delhi, have been visiting for a week, playing friendly games against various local clubs and exploring Durban.

The under-13 side have played four games against under-13 sides Maritzburg College, Berea Rovers, Chatsworth Sporting and the Durban Cricket Academy (DCA) and will play their final match today before leaving this evening.

They were brought to the country as a joint initiative between the DCA and Pelican Academy to broaden the horizons of young cricketers.

Pelican Sport director Deepak Anand, who lives in South Africa, said since the game had evolved over the years, the players had to grow as well.

"I moved to South Africa eight years ago to play professional cricket. Now I want to give something back to the children. We want them to experience different opportunities."

DCA founder Amos Maungwa, who has played for Zimbabwe, said the tour would prove valuable.

"With us, 75% of our players come from townships and you don't find first-class cricketers playing and coaching there often. So, by encouraging projects like this, we think we can harvest and develop the talent."

The DCA is supported by Durban High School principal Dave Magner and the chairman of the Berea Rovers Cricket Club, Wayne Scott.

Pelican Sport's 13-year-old captain, Viren Gumber, was intrigued by the different weather conditions the team experienced in South Africa.

"It is our first time here and we are excited. It gives us the chance to experience all conditions," said Viren.