Former Yorkshire fast bowler Moin Ashraf has launched a new cricket scholarship programme through his coaching company, The MACC Academy, aimed at helping youngsters from deprived backgrounds. Having grown up in inner-city Bradford, Ashraf is passionate about this initiative and is determined to provide opportunities for players aged 11 to 17, opportunities he himself once lacked.
To be eligible, applicants must be aged 11-17 and attend a state school. Other factors for consideration include whether families are recipients of Free School Meals, Pupil Premium, or any other Household Benefit. Selected scholars will be enrolled in The MACC Academy’s High Performance Winter Academy at a location of their choice, free of charge, and coached by Ashraf himself. Locations in West Yorkshire include Bradford, Leeds, Huddersfield, and Wakefield.
Applicants must visit The MACC Academy’s scholarship page to apply and fill out the form to the best of their ability. Clubs and schools are advised to provide supporting statements. Applications close on 15th September, and a panel of four will select players for trials, from which scholars will be chosen. The scholarship winners will be announced on 1st October. Clubs are urged to inform applicable players. For more information, please contact info@themaccacademy.com.
Regarding the formation of the scholarship scheme, Ashraf said: “Private cricket coaching is not affordable for everyone and a thought crossed my mind whilst seeing the talent on display at Bradford Park Avenue one evening, whilst coaching: ‘Would Moin Ashraf have been able to afford the services of Moin Ashraf?’”
“In other words, would the 12-year-old boy from West Bowling, Bradford, have been able to afford the services of an ex-professional cricketer with over 10 years professional playing experience?”
“When I realised the answer was leaning towards a ‘no’, I knew action was needed to create opportunities for those less fortunate. Thus, the MACC Academy Scholarship was born.”
“This is such an exciting project for me. For those that know me well, I’m all about giving back to the community that made me who I am. I’m very grateful for the opportunities that my community presented me with at an early age, and I want to open those doors for everyone. The aim of the scholarship is to provide High Performance cricket coaching for those that wouldn’t have the opportunity to receive it otherwise.”
Ashraf’s raw talent caught the eye of local coaches, setting him on a path into the professional game. His skill and enthusiasm saw him rise through the ranks, from the Yorkshire under-15s to the Academy and the second team, and finally making his debut at the tender age of 18—only the fourth British-born Asian to represent the county.
He also made his mark in the Bradford League with Great Horton, before moving on to Lightcliffe where he played in their 2013 Priestley Cup winning side alongside England seam bowler Ollie Robinson.
Ashraf enjoyed a successful professional career in the UK and overseas, including two County Championships, a Twenty20 Blast winner's medal, and appearances in the Champions League—his cricketing journey filled with illustrious moments.
Having retired from the professional game, his dedication and commitment to the sport led to the formation of The MACC Academy, which now has centres across the county.
Throughout his cricketing journey, Ashraf has never forgotten his roots and now hopes that he can provide opportunities which might lead to another youngster from a similar background making it as a professional cricketer.
Ashraf has secured funding for several scholarships and is collaborating with organisations to help support the project. If you would like to discuss this further with Moin, please email info@themaccacademy.com.
Download the MACC Programme brochure for more information here: MACC Academy Scholarship Programme 2024/25
