CCA hosts Bob Woolmer's inaugural visit to Toronto.

Canadian cricket faces huge challenges. Not only is Canada going to the U-19 World Cup in New Zealand in January 2002 but we are currently establishing a programme of fitness and activities to allow our Senior Team to participate credibly in the World Cup in 2003 in South Africa. Of critical importance is competition and competition against top class opposition.

Bob Woolmer, ICC High Performance Consultant concludes his inaugural visit with a media scrum at 11:30 am in Room 6A at the National Sports Alliance building in Toronto. Located at 1185 Eglinton Ave E (Don Mills and Eglinton). ICC Americas Development Manager, Robert Weekes will be in attendance. Further information can be obtained by calling 416 426 7312 or by fax on 416 426 7172.

Bob has had several days of meetings with local players, administrators, fundraisers, volunteers and fitness specialists. Player's needs, equipment, tours and training in the build up to the WC 2003 have been addressed. Specialist training and coaching as well as camps and academy visits are planned.

Facilities, management and coaching have been all discussed. Not only must Canada participate, we must ensure that we qualify for the much-delayed ODI status. On field play is only one aspect of that qualification. U-13, U-15, U-17, U-19 building blocks must be in place. Of even greater importance is expanding the base of schools playing cricket with more trained coaches and officials. Without this base, Canada's progress can be slowed.

ODI status by 2003/2004 is a target. A second target is Full Member status following Bangladesh and Kenya. Can we meet these challenges? Yes we can. We must have turf wickets in major centres across Canada and trained local expertise in all areas of the game. Budgetary requirements must be met and the CCA Executive has approved a Fundraising drive and Committee to lead that drive.

We thank the ICC Full and Associate members for the past support. We shall need the continued support by Full Members like India and Pakistan playing games in Canada!

Cricket Canada - let it grow. Get on board.