A WORLD famous cricketer came to town and gave youngsters in Walthamstow a bowling master-class, last week.

Pakistani fast bowler Mohammed Asif helped a community group called London Cricket School (LCS) host a free skills session for around 50 young cricketers at the Peter May Centre, in Wadham Road.

Asif’s career is in the doldrums right now, as he is banned from playing until September for failing a drugs test .

But the 26-year-old still had plenty to teach the boys about the mysterious art of swing bowling, and they were keen to learn.

He spent over two hours answering questions about what cricket is like at the very summit of the game.

Asif also revealed a few trade secrets to help the lads cultivate swing on pitches.

Mobbed by youngsters eager for his autograph and picture, Asif talked to the Guardian.

“It’s good for me that the kids want to learn something. It’s great that they’re happy and smiling and playing cricket” he said.

He also cast an expert eye on the youngsters during an extended nets session, and was impressed with what he saw.

“I saw a couple of guys with good height and swing and if they work hard they can do it. They must have passion, if you have the feeling inside, you can do it. I had to work hard. I just tried and tried.”

LCS’s chief executive, Naseem Saleemi was instrumental in drawing Asif to the event.

He said that the organisation gives children in state schools access to the facilities to play cricket, for no charge.

Mr Saleemi was bowled over by the response the youngsters gave to Mahammed Asif.

“I was flabbergasted. He was an utter professional and the way he treated the children was an example to any pro.

“Everyone made an effort to play, even kids who hadn’t played before. That's what the LCS is about. We want people to enjoy the game, and have the passion.”

He also praised Asif for not charging any fee for his appearance and his master-class for the youngsters.

One lad who impressed with his speed and accuracy was 16 year-old Sohaib.

He says prohibitive costs at other venues price him and his friends out of the game.

Sohaib said: “The LCS is important because its improved my bowling and my batting. It’s great for me, its free and just around the corner.”

If you want to find out more about the LCS or donate, visit: www.thelcs.org.uk.