THE Tanzania Cricket Association (TCA) has expressed a desire to step up its effort to develop the game at the domestic level via, among others, empowerment of players off the field.

Atif Salim, TCA Media Officer, had, in a recent interview with a local Television station, shed light on several significant initiatives and events shaping the cricket landscape in Tanzania.

One of the highlights was the discussion about the English course introduced for the senior national women's cricket team.

Spearheaded by TCA Chairman Balakrishna Sreekumar in collaboration with the International School of Tanganyika and the American Embassy in Tanzania, SalimAccording to the revealed, this initiative aims to empower the players by enhancing their language skills, thereby opening up new opportunities on and off the field.

The official noted the initiative was implemented following the senior national women's team's successful outing in the 13th African Games and the Nigeria Invitational T20 Women's tournament, highlighting TCA's commitment to the players' holistic development.

Responding to the players' request for English language training, the TCA organized immersive learning sessions at the association's headquarters from April 22-26.

The courses, conducted by teachers from the International School of Tanganyika, aimed to enhance the players' communication skills.

He disclosed that recognizing the importance of continuous learning, TCA ensured that the players would continue their English language classes online.

All players, Salim remarked, have further been registered in the American Embassy English class database, further expanding their access to resources.

Ashish Nagewadia, the TCA vice-chairman, and CEO Abdallah marked the conclusion of the five-day course by expressing gratitude to the teachers for their invaluable contributions.

This collaborative effort underscores the power of partnerships in driving positive change within the Tanzanian cricket community.

Salim noted that the female cricketers will, after the course's completion, not only possess improved English language skills but also symbolize the future of women's cricket in Tanzania.

By investing in their development, he disclosed, TCA lays the groundwork for a brighter tomorrow, whereby Tanzania's female cricketers excel both on and off the field.

Salim further made an exclusive revelation regarding the resignation of senior national men's cricket side head coach Jimmy Kamande.

While bidding farewell to Kamande, Salim expressed gratitude for the coach's outstanding contributions, particularly in guiding the senior national men's team to qualify for the 2023-2026 ICC Cricket World Cup Challenge League.

According to the TCA official, the Kenyan coach's departure marks the end of an era, but his legacy will undoubtedly endure within Tanzanian cricket.

The interview delved into other significant topics, offering insights into the future direction of Tanzanian cricket and the ongoing efforts to elevate the sport to new heights.

Recently, TCA's CEO Hamisi Abdallah also revealed various developments in the cricketing landscape of Tanzania.
 
Addressing the recently concluded TCA U-17 Women Easter Series, Abdallah expressed satisfaction over the tournament's overall success.

However, he acknowledged the challenges brought about by inclement weather, which resulted in the cancellation of some matches.

Despite facing such a setback, the event served as a platform for young female cricketers to showcase their talent and passion for the sport.

Reflecting on the significance of Tanzania's participation in the 13th African Games, Abdallah emphasized the importance of both men's and women's cricket teams representing the nation on such a prestigious stage.

With cricket making its debut at the African Games, Tanzania had a unique opportunity to demonstrate its cricketing prowess and foster international recognition.

Looking ahead, Abdallah outlined plans to enhance regional infrastructure and association initiatives targeting to provide better ground facilities and practice opportunities.

Salim revealed TCA aims to, through investing in these resources, cultivate a thriving cricketing community across Tanzania, nurturing talent from the grassroots level.