The Middlestump launches free cricket summer camp in Lagos, Abuja

The Middlestump, Nigeria’s premier cricket blog, has announced plans to host a free junior cricket camp in Lagos and Abuja to extend the reach of the sport in the country.

Olumide Akintokun, an executive of the blog, said the move is part of its efforts to partner with Nigeria Cricket Federation (NCF) to develop the sport at the grassroots.

Akintokun added that such is also inspired by the fact that most top cricketers in the country have benefited from similar developmental initiatives by other private organisations in the past.

“We intend for this to be The Middlestump’s statement in support of the huge effort being thrown at developmental courses across the country by different cricket establishments, especially with support from the cricket federation,” he said.

Akintokun said the Middlestump summer camp initiative tagged “GreenShoots” will run from August 23 to 25.

“We hope that the kids will be treated to a nice time when the camp runs from August 23 to 25. But our ultimate goal is to sow a seed of cricket which entails discipline, teamwork, focus and integrity in the minds of these children as we engage them in those three days,” he added.

“While it is our hope to get a huge number of kids together, COVID-19 restriction has forced us to plan for a limited number. We have put plans in place to have the utmost Covid compliant environment.”

According to him, the camp would run simultaneously at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos and at the “Package B” of the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.

Ahead of the event, the organisers have asked interested parents and guardians to enter their wards for the limited slots via here.

The organisers said the portal would be deactivated after the admission limit has been reached, while they also called for sponsorship.