Richard Cox recently took the opportunity to return to Cyprus to discuss the forthcoming ECC Level 1 course to be held there next spring whilst at the same time conducting a coaching session at one of the world’s most unique cricketing locations. Local cricket fanatic Costas Makrides has built his own cricket net on the side of a hill in a remote location known as Choirokoitia which is between Larnaca and Lefkara (home of the Cyprus lace industry).

The coaching session was organised by local cricket secretary (Cyprus CA) Richard Steenhuis, who was keen to take the opportunity of Cox’s presence to further develop the best 4 players that Cyprus boast as part of their emerging development programme. Due to the nature of the location the boys were able to take part in a Coaching net session with Cox paying particular attention to alignment in the bowling action and were able to see considerable improvement in the boys during the session. This was followed by a short session on close to the wicket fielding during which the lads worked on hand eye coordination and catching techniques. Richard Steenhuis will also be visiting the UK in December to take part in the inaugural ICC “Introduction to Cricket” Instructors Course during the EDP’s Coaching & Development Conference.

The Cyprus Cricket season is to be completed in early December -  the semi final of the Cyprus CA Twenty/20 semi finals held at Oroklini playing fields will be played in a 20 overs aside format between Himalayan CC and Sri Lankan CC whilst in the other half of the draw Palm Court CC meet The Lions. Intercollege are already through to the semi final stages – Finals Day 5th December – Happy Valley

Finally the chairman of the Cyprus CA, Steve Carr and Cox were able to meet to discuss the forthcoming ECC Level 1 to be held in the first two weekends of March 2005 for aspiring Cypriot coaches as well as local ex-pats and servicemen from the 3 forces bases.  Further details can be obtained form Steve Carr on carrs@cylink.com.cy or on 00 357 99696685.