From correspondents in West Bengal, India, 08:00 PM IST

National Cricket Academy's (NCA) director of coaching Dav Whatmore wants all coaches in the country to be brought under a common umbrella so that they can interact frequently.

'I want to see all the coaches in the country coming on a common platform and there should be frequent interaction and exchange of notes among them,' Whatmore told reporters here Saturday.

On a two-day visit to the city to conduct a Level A clinic for coaches, the Australian said he wanted to streamline the coaching process. 'If there is a common method of training, it does help'.

Whatmore said he wanted to broaden the base, and stressed the need for working at the grassroots.

He said the forthcoming tour of an emerging players' team to Israel would provide a great opportunity for Indian youngsters to showcase their talent.

'But the authorities have to ensure that talent is not lost midway while graduating from one age group to another. We should see to it that the rookies are nurtured properly till they make the grade,' he added.

(Staff Writer, © IANS)