MUSTAFA Shaikh has been handed a prestigious Sky Sports award for his services to grassroots cricket in Somerset.

The long-time coaching co-ordinator for Taunton Cricket Club is one of 80 people across the country to be recognised for outstanding service to the community throughout the season.

It is part of the first ever Sky Sports Coach Reward and Recognition Scheme.

Sky Sports is keen to unearth more cricket coaches throughout the country and reward long-serving and distinguished coaches.

Mustafa was presented with his award by Somerset and England legend and Sky Sports commentator Sir Ian Botham at the One Day International against India at Bristol.

As Taunton's coaching co-ordinator and an ECB Level 3 coach himself, Mustafa has recommended countless players to undertake coaching qualifications, both within his club and others.

Taunton was one of the first clubs to gain 'Clubmark' status and was identified as a focus club in Somerset.

A Sky Sports spokesman said: "He has been unswerving in his advocacy of membership of the ECB CA and the benefits that membership brings to coaches.

"Unfortunately, events over the last few months have not been kind to Mustafa but, rather than retreating into his shell, he has carried on with his role with the club and continues to support Coach Education in the county and the ECB CA.

"Mustafa is exactly the kind of volunteer that every club needs and a reward such as this could not happen to a more dedicated and deserving fellow."

In addition to rewarding long-standing servants of cricket coaching, Sky Sports is working in partnership with the ECB to provide Sky Sports coaching scholarships for new coaches throughout the country as well as Europe.