England prospect set for South Africa

Senwes Park in Potchefstroom will host the 2009 International Pro Camp, alongside the prestigious University of Potchefstroom

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A teenager from Essex is set to become the first British female to attend the prestigious International Pro Camp in South Africa.

England prospect Catherine Dalton, 17, from Loughton, will join an elite group of players for a five-day training camp, run by North West Cricket, from November 30 to December 4.

The Essex and regional Super Fours player is one of 22 first-class and professional academy products from across South Africa and the world to take part,

Held at one-day international venue Senwes Park in Potchefstroom and the University of Potchefstroom, it features fitness training, sports psychology, video analysis, 50-over matches under floodlights and nets.

Past coaches at the camp include former South Africa batsman and current India head coach Gary Kirsten, plus legendary South Africa batsman Graeme Pollock.

Dalton’s specialist coach, Ian Pont who set up the coaching event with NWC in 2007, said: “This camp will push all the players who attend to the limit.

“The facilities are excellent and the centre wicket is one of the best ODI surfaces in world cricket.

Catherine Dalton's personal coach Ian Pont set up the coaching event in 2007

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“Over the past two years we have had county cricketers from England and international players, so Catherine will find the standard very high and testing. But this is just another step in her development towards the England team.”

Former Essex and Netherlands bowling fast coach Pont added: “It’s an amazing opportunity to measure yourself against your peers and above from Test playing countries.

“Last year we had a 90 mph bowler in Gerrie Snyman, the Namibian international. Catherine will be working, netting and playing with players like this so can only benefit.”

Dalton, who will spend five days extra with Pont, said “I really cannot wait. It will the be the highest level of camp I have attended and the extra five days I am having with Ian will make this trip amazing. To have the chance to get coaching here is just fantastic.”

Event organiser Andra Ferreria, Media & Events manager at NWC, added: “We are excited about having young Catherine from the UK.

“We have had six South African female internationals during the past two years and always look forward to receiving a talented and potentially great player in South Africa.

“The girls get treated the same way as the guys and everyone works side by side. Catherine will learn a massive amount during her time with us.”