The eleven day high performance camp under Dav Whatmore has concluded yesterday. The high performance camp included 32 national and regional players picked by Cricket Players Association of Nepal(CPAN).
“It was a very rewarding experience”, said Whatmore when inquired about his experience in Nepal. “This is my first time in Kathmandu and I am a better person for coming here and working with the team”, he added.
Whatmore, who guided Sri Lanka to their only World Cup victory way back in 1996, was here in Kathmandu for last 2 weeks. Whatmore was brought to Nepal by Bat and Ball foundation. The high performance camp was planned by the foundation and CPAN to prepare the side for the Kenya fixture of World Cricket League Championship.
“We focused on both technique and mental strength”, said Whatmore when inquired about the camp. “Most developing cricket teams like Nepal have good pool of talent. A common problem in these teams is the ability to respond to stressful conditions during a match. So, we focused on that area.”, he reasoned.
Whatmore has recently taken up the job of head coach at Sri Ramachandra University global cricket academy in Chennai.
He had landed in Kathmandu in 21st January. After launching the Bat and Ball Foundation on 23rd January he was involved in two days coaches’ clinic, followed by eleven days High Performance Camp. He also visited the newly established Himalayan Cricket Academy. Whatmore is set return tomorrow, 7th February.
A preliminary squad of most presumably 24 members for Kenya fixture will likely be announced in couple of days based on performance in Super League and High Performance Camp. Nepal is currently sixth in the points table with 3 wins from 8 games. Kenya are 5th with 8 points. Nepal will face Kenya on 11th and 13th March at Tribhuwan University Cricket Ground.
The team is also planning to tour India for final preparations before the fixtures.