UDARA Weerasinghe wants to produce the Territory’s next international cricketer when his Darwin Cricket Academy opens in December.
“That’s my ultimate goal,’’ he told the NT News last night. “Since I’ve been involved in Darwin cricket as a player the thought of international cricket has not been far away.
“Unfortunately at 33 years of age now my time is running out, so I want to achieve that same goal through my coaching.’’
An accredited level two coach, Weerasinghe plans to base his cricket academy at the Top End Indoor Cricket Centre in Darwin.
He has circled Sunday, December 6 as the official opening, when former Sri Lankan fast bowler Chaminda Vaas will be on hand to assist him.
Vaas, who grabbed 355 wickets in 111 Test matches for Sri Lanka, will instruct potential fast bowlers on the intricacies of left-arm fast bowling and the elements of swing.
“A lot of people have been asking me for a long time to get into some sort of coaching role,’’ Weerasinghe said.
“That’s always been my passion, it’s been in my head for several years and now Katherine Flynn and the Top End Centre have agreed to assist me, which is tremendous.’’
A dual All-Australian country cricketer, Weerasinghe has been an NT Strike representative for five years in between Premier Grade appearances for Darwin clubs Palmerton and Nightcliff.
His Academy will be open to cricketers of all ages, from young girls and boys to men and women wanting to learn or improve their game.
“Anyone wanting to learn the skills of the game or go to another level with their cricket from where they are now, I’m happy to help them out,’’ Weerasinghe said. “Initially it will be a one-person show which I will add to once we are established.
“I’ll start with a daily course on Sundays, depending on numbers and hopefully advance ithat to monthly or six week courses, either on a one-on-one basis or with group bookings.’’
The Academy will also feature seminars and coaching clinics by present day and former international cricketers.
“The first player will be Chaminda Vaas, he’s happy to help me out with the official opening and he’ll work with young people who want to bowl fast and swing the ball,’’ Weerasinghe said.
“I haven’t spoken to NT Cricket officials yet, but I’ll be more than happy to work with them when I bring international players to the Territory.’’