• Sportzyverse
• Cricket news
• 07/03/2024
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In a major development for Indian domestic cricket, an ambitious Bengaluru NCA (National Cricket Academy)- like project is set to be unveiled in Kolkata on Tuesday. Notably, former India cricketer Sandeep Patil has been appointed as the head of this new academy on a five-year contract.

Sandeep Patil, a former NCA director himself, has assembled a team of experienced professionals, including Dinesh Nanavati, Gautam Shome, and sports therapist Ashish Kaushik, to ensure the success of this venture. “When Shrachi Sports Ventures approached me, I took my time to decide. I was impressed with what they plan to offer to Indian cricket, and that’s why I agreed,” Patil stated. “I have brought my old team from NCA—Nanavati, Ashish, and Shome—here. We will work together.”

This new facility will primarily cater to cricketers from the eastern region and north-east of India, working in association with the Cricket Association of Bengal. Patil emphasized that the academy would provide comprehensive support, eliminating the need for cricketers to seek rehab or fitness solutions elsewhere. “From now on, no cricketer will have to go outside for any rehab or fitness issues. Our coaches and facilities will meet all their needs,” Patil assured.

Sandeep Patil Roped in to Create NCA-like Private Sports Facility in Kolkata

At 67, Patil is fully committed to this project, promising to make Kolkata his “new base” for the next five years. “I’ve not come here to just conduct or supervise the courses. I will stay in Kolkata for five years, fully dedicated to this academy. When I coached teams like Kenya, Oman, or Madhya Pradesh, I always made sure to stay there fully,” he said.

An unforgettable evening with the Shrachi Team as we celebrated 41 years of the glorious ’83 World Cup Victory alongside the legendary Sandeep Patil, Mentor at Shrachi Sports! 🏏✨ Honouring the past, inspiring the future! #ShrachiSports #ShrachiGroup #83Victory #SandeepPatil pic.twitter.com/ETLKGv6fdW

— Shrachi Group (@BengalShrachi) June 28, 2024

The academy’s vision extends beyond cricket. Patil revealed plans to gradually expand the facility to include other sports like tennis, football, and basketball. “Leander Paes will oversee tennis. This will not just be a cricket academy but will evolve into a full-fledged sports academy in the future,” he added.

Also read Sandeep Patil Requests BCCI to Finance Anshuman Gaekwad’s Medical Expenses

The new cricket facility, established by the Shrachi Group, a city-based real estate enterprise, is located at the Athlead International School in Joka. According to Rahul Todi, the managing director of Shrachi Group, the facility will serve as a nodal rehab center for cricketers and provide physical and mental training to coaches and rising cricketers. “We aim to offer a holistic training environment. Our facilities will cater to all aspects of a sportsperson’s development,” Todi said.