Hi all from South Africa.  Tuesday was a tough training session as it was extremely hot and humid especially for us lads that are still not used to the weather, even the local players found it really tough.

On Wednesday, Sam and I went to the Muir's feeder school to coach kids that are 8-9 years old. We showed the children simple things like how to grip and hold a cricket bat along with introducing them to some basic bowling drills.

Thursday we had an early net in the morning, then after school we had formal training which again was a very intense session. Friday was an early night for us lads as we were up at 4am to go to Union High school, a very long and monotonous trip for three hours to a lovely town in the Eastern Cape called Graff Reinet.

We arrived at the school and the view was amazing as there were mountains all around the school. The first team were restricted to 180 all out. Sam got 6 and I got 3 with a very dodge lbw…..  We knew we could defend this total as we have defended less runs before. We had a great start with myself bowling 9 straight through taking 2 wickets for 24 runs and restricting them down to 25-5 off 19 overs as all our bowlers were bowling a consistent line and length.

Union were starting to build a partnership as the number five and seven batsmen were in, then drinks came and we picked up a wicket the very first ball after drinks. Then we finally bowled them all out for 90 showing good character as a team.

The seconds got off to a really shaky start as they were 4-1 off 1 over but then levelled out during the middle overs with David scoring 19 and Mark scoring 16, they ended up 221-9 after 50 overs. To the bowling side of things they had a great start with Union 60-4 with David picking up 2 wickets and Mark catching one behind. Union were going well as they were 130-5 and only needed 91 from 25 overs things didn't look too good for the seconds until David’s second spell picking up a hat-trick and bowling them out for 169. His final figures were 6-45 off 10 overs – two great wins for Muir.

Saturday sees our final game of the season against a strong Muir College ‘Old Boys’ team which includes Warriors star Sisi Magala, brother of Dumi who played for Phoenix in 2013. A function is taking place at The Murite and the guest speaker is international rugby referee Craig Joubert.

I'd like to say a huge thank to all at Muir College for having the four of us. It's been a tremendous experience for us lads. The staff in the hostel especially have been very nice and helpful throughout our stay.  We have made many friends on this trip and hope to keep in contact for years to come. It will be very difficult for us when we leave on Monday after our final game on Saturday. We are very thankful for Cricket Leinster and our parents for giving us the opportunity to come over to South Africa and play cricket.

Fionn Hand