Sixteen talented young cricketers took part in the Bermuda Cricket Board’s Under-19 talent identification and development camp, which combined assessment, education and high-performance development.

Described as a milestone in its long-term strategy, the camp was aimed at preparing Bermuda’s next generation for international cricket.

More importantly, the programme is part of BCB’s preparations for hosting the ICC Under-19 Men’s World Cup Americas Qualifier from August 20-30, 2027.

Held over five days, the camp allowed coaches to assess players’ technical ability, physical conditioning, cricket knowledge and readiness for representative cricket.

Ryan Steede, the Under-19 coach who led the camp with mentorship from BCB international consultant Andre Coley, was pleased with the level of engagement.

“The camp was an overwhelming success,” Steede said.

“The players demonstrated excellent attitudes, a willingness to learn and a genuine desire to improve.

“We were encouraged by the depth of talent on display and the commitment shown by both players and parents.

“This camp has provided a strong foundation as we build towards the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Americas Qualifier, which Bermuda is scheduled to host in August 2027.”

Steede, together with assistant coaches Kyle Hodsoll and Roderick Masters, as well as team manager Ryan Belboda, will review the observations and performance data collected during the camp to begin monitoring and developing players identified within the national pathway.

Additional training camps, educational workshops and competition opportunities will be scheduled throughout 2027 as part of the board’s preparation programme.

The programme began with a parent and player orientation session, where participants were introduced to the objectives of the under-19 pathway and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Players and parents learnt about the standards, discipline, commitment, fitness expectations, nutrition practices and mental skills required to succeed at national level.

Throughout the week, players participated in batting and bowling assessments, strength and conditioning testing, fielding and wicketkeeping evaluations, classroom workshops focused on national team preparation and personal development.

According to the BCB, the indoor batting and bowling sessions enabled coaches to identify players’ strengths while evaluating decision-making, execution and technical proficiency.

Fitness assessments challenged athletes across key areas including speed, endurance, power, agility and strength, while fielding and wicketkeeping sessions highlighted several players with strong athletic potential and specialist skills.

In addition to the practical sessions, classroom workshops introduced players to the expectations associated with wearing Bermuda’s national colours and the commitment required to represent their country on the international stage.

“The camp achieved its primary objective of identifying emerging talent, while establishing benchmark performance data that will be used to support individual player development plans moving forward,” the BCB said.

“The BCB remains committed to creating a sustainable talent development framework that supports young athletes, promotes sporting excellence and strengthens Bermuda’s ability to compete successfully on the regional and international stage.

“With less than a year remaining before welcoming the region’s top under-19 cricketers to Bermuda, the board views this successful camp as an important step towards assembling a competitive national squad and delivering a memorable event on home soil.

“The BCB extends its sincere appreciation to the players, parents, coaches, volunteers and venue partners, whose support and commitment contributed to the success of the camp.”