SOMERSET Cricket Board’s major coaching courses for young cricketers - a fun and exciting eight week course designed for children aged four to six - started yesterday.

The programme is designed to give the players a fun, first experience of cricket, helps develop FUNdamental movement skills, involves basic skills stations, introduces games to young cricketers and runs with a low player to coach ratio.

There are still places available on this course which can be booked by calling 01823 352266 or email matthewcounsell@somersetcricketboard.org In addition to this, the Winter Development Programme returns and looks to build on its successful introduction last year.

The programme follows the model of Somerset Cricket Board’s highly successful county age group system and enables players from all over Somerset to benefit.

Courses are planned to take place at The Centre of Excellence (Taunton), Merchant’s Academy (Bristol) and Writhlington Sports Centre (BANES).

The ten-week programme has sessions available for young cricketers aged six-14 which are specific to both their needs and development.

The programme will nurture the skills of cricketers across the county and give players the opportunity to fulfil their potential within Somerset’s player pathway.

It will also provide players with the opportunity to develop their cricket skills and understanding of the game, encouraging a lifelong passion for cricket to grow and develop the player’s technical, tactical, physical and mental skills.

To request an information pack for the programme contact Matthew Counsell (see above).

The final coaching opportunity available is the Somerset Cricket Board’s highly sought after one-to-one coaching programme that will restart again on October 1 at The County Ground, Taunton.

The programme enables players from eight upwards to be coached in a personal environment by experienced and expert Somerset coaches.

All the SCB coaches are qualified to a high level and are able to work on all aspects of a player’s game.

Players will receive personal feedback from the coach and a coaching card to take away should they wish to develop techniques and skills outside of the programme.

Sessions are available on Mondays, Wednesdays and during half-term holidays, at a cost of £35 per hour. A group of two, three or four players could enjoy a session for as little as £12.50 per player (£40 total).

To book a place on any of the above please email SCB cricket administrator Matt Counsell: matthew.counsell@somersetcricketboard.org