Kevin Pietersen: ‘It has been the proudest day of my life’

This content was originally posted in 7DAYS UAE website at: Kevin Pietersen: ‘It has been the proudest day of my life’ Having been fortunate enough to forge a successful career in cricket, Kevin Pietersen has always hoped that he would be able to give something back to the sport he holds so dear. The former England star has witnessed first-hand the passion for the game in all corners of the globe. But in many of the poorer regions it is virtually impossible for aspiring young cricketers to turn their passion into their profession. Now Pietersen hopes he can change the lives of a number of young children, many from underprivileged backgrounds, with the launch of his foundation. Launched last November in Dubai, the foundation raised funds to bring 60 children to the UAE to compete in the first Sprite 24/7 Project – now underway across the emirates. “It’s probably the proudest day of my career,” Pietersen tells 7DAYS while watching the action unfold at the ICC Academy in Dubai. “I honestly believe that as I see how happy these kids are. “It’s been a lot of hard work so it really is the icing on the cake to see the kids in their kits and proud to be representing their countries.” The tournament, for children aged between 15 and 18, features teams from India, Pakistan, Australia, Sri Lanka, Kenya and Sri Lanka all demonstrating their skills on a 10-day all-expenses paid trip to the UAE. The hope is to discover some hidden talent, but more important to the foundation is the chance for these talented youngsters to gain skills that can help them advance in life when they return home. “As we’ve come through, the final has become less and less important,” says former Hampshire batsman and director of the KP24 Foundation, Richard Logan. “Instead of just giving them money, we wanted to give them a chance to make a life for themselves. Our coaching courses mean they can return home and pass on their knowledge and help develop cricket.” While there is a natural competitive edge and the chance to play in a final this Friday at the Sheikh Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, the main purpose is to encourage the youngsters to make a living from cricket. “The majority of the kids didn’t have passports and some of the Indian kids didn’t even have shoes,” adds Pietersen. “They were shown around a mattress factory – who have helped as sponsors – and some of these kids had never seen a mattress before and thought it was just a springboard. So if they can return home and pass on what they’ve learnt it will be a massive achievement.” Avinash Baragude, who was in action for India as Pietersen watched on, hopes to use the skills he has learned to help younger players in his team. “I’d never left the state before,” said Avinash. “Kevin’s guidance really meant a lot and I’m really happy with this opportunity. I’d love to one day play for India but most of all I’d like to train the younger kids at the Bombay Foundation.” Having gained help from Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara, the Melbourne Stars and Pakistan great Mustaq Ahmed, Pietersen confirmed plans to expand the tournament.     Read the original story at: Kevin Pietersen: ‘It has been the proudest day of my life’