O’Dane Giddings

O’Dane is a 16 year old from Woodford in North-East London who will be mentored by Nick Gubbins. He is an explosive bowling all-rounder whose pace is utilised as an opening bowler. Equally ferocious with the bat, he strikes the ball with immense power and, often, over the boundary rope for six runs.

He was first introduced to the sport at aged six by his father, who had played cricket for much of his life in the Caribbean. As a youngster, O’Dane’s talents with ball and bat were quickly recognised. Firstly, at district level, where he played for a number of years, and then at the Essex CAG setup. As he moved up the year groups and ranks, places in the team became more and more competitive, and O’Dane narrowly missed out on selection for the U18 squad. Not to be deterred, he has regularly looked to challenge himself in men's cricket, playing for South Woodford Cricket Club and more recently, Wanstead Cricket Club, where he hopes to make his mark in the 2nd XI, and make his way back to County Cricket. Whilst O’Dane missed out on a place in the U18 squad at Essex, his talents were clearly noted, and he was asked to be part of the new ACE programme by a coach he met during his time there.

Currently, O’Dane is studying Electrical Installation at Barnet Southgate, having just completed his first year. He is keen to further his trade skills, but is hopeful that they will only be needed as a backup to the main passion in his life, cricket.