Victory Cricket Club’s Mahek Pokar smashed the first century of the fifth edition of Late Arjun Madhvi Women’s Trophy as she plundered 112 runs off 101 balls against Sports Field Cricket Club on Friday in Thane to help her team register a humongous win of 202 runs.
Pokar’s power-packed innings that was laced with 20 fours steered Victory Cricket Club to a formidable score of 293/4 in 40 overs. Alongside this right-handed opening batter, her partner, Alina Mulla (61) stitched 184-run partnership to set the tone of the match. While the opening pair of Victory Cricket Club went hammer and tongs, the bowlers of Sports Field Cricket Club had no answers to stop the run flow. The only silver lining in the dark bowling cloud of Sports Field Cricket Club was Aakruti Bhoir, who, albeit bleeding 59 runs in her eight over spell, scalped two wickets.
Chasing a mammoth 294 for a win, Sports Field Cricket Club’s batting collapsed like a pack of cards. They were bowled out for a paltry 91 in 30.1 overs. Apart from Priyanka Rathod (31) and Palak Dharamshi (29) none of the batters looked in shape. For Victory Cricket Club, Aleena Khan stood out with the ball as she snapped three wickets conceding just 27 runs in her eight overs, including one maiden.
Having suffered a crushing defeat, Sports Field Cricket Club have made their way out of the tournament. Victory Cricket Club, on the other hand, have advanced to the next stage.
Brief Scores: Victory Cricket Club 293/4 in 40 overs (M Pokar 112; A Bhoir 2/59) beat Sports Field Cricket Club 91 all out in 30.1 overs (P Rathod 31; A Khan 3/27) by 202 runs
This Article is written by Juili Balal
Regal Cricket Club defeated Sporting Union Club by six wickets on Tuesday in the second match of the fifth edition of the Late Arjun Madhvi Women’s Trophy.
Chasing a modest total of 154 for a win, Regal Cricket Club overhauled the target in just 26.4 overs at the loss of four wickets. Chetana Bisht (36) led the run chase from the front and found able allies in Jetsun Chi (35 not out), Akanksha Mishra (32) Harshal Jadhav (27). While Manasi Chavan (2/30) stood out with the ball for her team picking up two wickets, that wasn’t enough to stop the free-flowing batters of Regal Cricket Club.
Early in the day, winning the toss and electing to bat first, Sporting Union Club scored 153/9 in 39 overs. Chavan top scored with 24. Deepali Shelar (14 not out) was only the other major contributor with the bat. Sporting Union Club found it difficult to score against the bowlers of Regal Cricket Club as they bowled probing lines and lengths to pick wickets at regular intervals. Bisht, Vaishnavi Iyengar, Komal Jadhav, Gauri Kadam, and Priyadarshani Singh scalped one wicket apiece.
With this loss, it is curtains for Sporting Union Club in this tournament. On the other hand, Regal Cricket Club have qualified for the next level.
Brief Scores: Sporting Union Club 153/9 in 39 overs (M Chavan 24; C Bisht 1/9) lost to Regal Cricket Club 154/4 in 26.4 overs (C Bisht 36; M Chavan 2/30) by 6 wickets
This article is written by Juili Ballal.
Cricketgraph’s interview with “Mr.Fitness” aka Amogh Pandit was quite informative.
Amogh is hailed as one of the top Strength & Conditioning Coaches in India. He is serving as Strength and Conditioning Coach with Mumbai Ranji Team for the last 17 years.
Amogh has also served as Strength and conditioning coach for Rajasthan Royals (Indian premier league). He has also been a conditioning specialist with India A team. Amogh is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist with top level certifications like CSCS the NSCA, USA.
When you talk about cricket in Mumbai, there are two types of batsman. The first breed is the group of current senior players of Mumbai who have growned up watching as well as playing Red Ball Cricket. The ones who are known for their traditional cricketing shots, classy batting and old school technique. The 2nd breed is thriving of energetic youngsters who will soon be the future of Mumbai as well as Indian Cricket.
The 2nd breed of youngsters are completely different personalities with them putting more emphasis on white ball cricket and its not their fault either as T20’s are played more than Tests and ODI’s in today’s era. They prefer to play faster, they have the whackiest of shots and for them playing fast is not just a necessity but it’s their natural game.
And when we talk about Jay Bista, he is the fortunate hybrid Cricketer with the best of both the worlds. Born on 23rd December 1995 , at the age of 23, Jay is right there at the middle of two generations where he gets to see two different worlds of cricket. With experienced team mates like Suryakumar Yadav, Siddhesh Lad, Aditya Tare, Shreyas Iyer & Dhawal Kulkarni, Jay gets to witness proper classical red ball cricket whenever he gets a chance to represent the Mumbai team in the longer format of the game. Jay gets to see the sanctity of test cricket, the nitty-gritties of patience, solid technique, classical shots from the 1st breed of his senior mates while he has his own game of wizardy with the bat & athletic fielding abilities making him a perfect recipe for a modern day t20 player.
With the advent of T20 Cricket rising, new shots being innovated every day and playing fast & furious being the latest trend, Jay is well versed with that world of cricket too with aggressive brand of batting being his natural game.
In a candid interview with Cricketgraph, we throwed upon a lot of questions at him which he gracefully answered:
When we asked him how it all started, Jay said “From the age of 2, i was in to this game as my mom had told me from that age itself I was crazy for the game. I started practicing from the age of 8 but when I was 12, that’s when I started thinking about it professionally”
Born & brought up in Mumbai, the 23yr old studied at Bhadra New High School and later went to the famed Shardashram Vidyamandir School which has given Mumbai some of the finest first class & national level cricketers. Jay finished his further studies from Ramniranjan Jhunjhunwala College while he is getting trained under coaching of Vinod Raghavan Sir.
Jay has represented Mumbai team at U14, U16, U19, U23 as well as the senior team while he plays club cricket representing Victory CC in Mumbai. When we asked him to share some of his most memorable performances, Jay shared with us- “Getting 136 something last year in my comeback game against Saurashtra, a double hundred in the finals of U23 One Day Tournament, a 4th innings ton of 126 runs while chasing vs Baroda and my recent hundred in T20 mumbai (where he scored 110 off mere 60 balls for Sobo Supersonics) are some of my memorable performances so far.
Known for his eccentric and innovative shots including his famous version of “Bista Scoop”, Jay feels thankful to his parents and Coach Vinod Raghavan Sir for whatever he has achieved so far. When we asked him his long term goals, Jay smartly answered” –“I believe in living in the present, I don’t have a long term plan, I just want to win games for whichever teams I play for and keep performing consistently”
Team Cricketgraph wishes him all the luck for a great career ahead as he keeps entertaining one and all with his risqué shots and stylish batting.
The New Jersey U15 cricket team proved once again why they’re the side to beat, lifting the U15 Nationals trophy for the second straight year. Their journey to the title wasn’t just about dominance it was about nerve, resilience, and clutch moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Opening Statement Against North Carolina
The campaign began against North Carolina, where New Jersey set the tone. After winning the toss and batting first, they put up 197 runs in 40 overs. Raghav Lakshmanan smashed 44 off 39 balls, while Aarav Patel held the innings together with 35 off 55.
Defending the total, the bowlers were ruthless. Siddhith Krishna ripped through the batting order with 4 wickets in just 6 overs, sealing a 88-run win and picking up the Man of the Match award.
Match 2: Double Super Over Drama
The second match against Bay Area Regional turned into an instant classic. After a tie in regulation play, the game went into two Super Overs. With 8 runs to defend in the second Super Over, Raj Parikh held his nerve and bowled brilliantly to seal victory for New Jersey. That clutch performance kept their unbeaten run alive.
Match 3: Balanced Win Over Missouri
Facing Missouri U15, New Jersey once again leaned on their bowling strength. Missouri were bowled out for 124 in 39 overs, with Armaan Ramchandani, Thaman Dilip, and Raj Parikh each striking twice.
The chase wasn’t flashy but steady, as New Jersey crossed the line with 4 wickets in hand. Rehan Behra’s all-round effort 17 runs and a wicket earned him the Man of the Match.
The Final: Last-Ball Six Seals Glory
The grand final against Bay Area Regional was the ultimate see-saw battle. Bay Area posted 160/8 in 40 overs, with Raghav Lakshmanan again the standout bowler, taking 4/23 in 7 overs.
The chase was tense from start to finish. With 10 runs needed off the final over, the game went down to the last ball. That’s when Raj Parikh turned hero, smashing a six to seal the title for New Jersey. It was a finish straight out of a movie script.
Tournament Standouts
Most Valuable Player of the Tournament: Raghav Lakshmanan
Best Wicketkeeper of the Tournament: Aarav Patel
The Man Behind the Success: Coach Shailesh Nakashe
Much of New Jersey’s success comes down to the steady guidance of Coach Shailesh Nakashe, who has been at the helm for both national title wins. Under his leadership, the team has built a culture of discipline, teamwork, and fearless cricket.
Winning two national championships in a row is no small feat, and Nakashe’s influence has been crucial in helping the players believe in themselves and deliver under pressure. His role in shaping young talent like Raghav Lakshmanan, Aarav Patel, and Siddhith Krishna has made him one of the most respected youth coaches in the U.S. cricket circuit.
Champions Again
From Siddhith Krishna’s fiery spell in the opener to the double Super Over win, and the last-ball six in the final, this campaign had it all. New Jersey didn’t just defend their title they built a legacy, proving they can win big, win close, and win under pressure.
One-day cricket finds itself in an uncertain space — caught between the fast-paced thrill of T20s and the tradition of Tests. Once the perfect balance of skill, strategy, and endurance, the 50-over format has been pushed aside. The Asia Cup has switched to T20, bilateral ODI series are being trimmed, and ICC Future Tours Programme allocations keep shrinking. Broadcasters prefer T20s for their fixed three-hour slot, while ODIs risk rain interruptions and unpredictable lengths.
The result is a format slowly losing its identity. Are we heading toward a pro-40 model instead of the traditional 50 overs?
Will and Skill: The Grassroots Crisis
The real problem isn’t just whether teams have ODI skills — it’s whether those skills are being developed at all. Domestic 50-over tournaments are disappearing worldwide. State associations prefer T20 leagues for cost and scheduling, while first-class cricket focuses on red-ball skills. Many players now reach international level having played fewer than 20–30 proper 50-over matches in their career.
This creates a vicious cycle: without exposure, players struggle at international level, making the format less appealing. The muscle memory of pacing an innings over 50 overs is simply not being built.
On top of this, most domestic T20 leagues offer far greater financial rewards than 50-over cricket. Young players naturally gravitate to formats that bring faster recognition. The will to master ODIs fades when the pathway offers fewer opportunities.
The Forgotten Art of Strike Rotation
Over the last few years, teams have increasingly failed to bat through 50 overs, often folding early. The middle overs — once the engine room of ODI batting — have become a graveyard.
The most underrated skill in ODI cricket is strike rotation. If you look at Virat Kohli’s record, his strike rate remains impressive despite not hitting an extraordinary number of boundaries. That’s because he mastered the art of turning over the strike, building around the occasional four. In ODIs, risk is always calculated: a boundary every 2–3 overs, combined with smart singles, allows you to keep the scoreboard ticking at 6–7 runs per over without gambling your wicket.
What we see too often now is the opposite — players going for two boundaries an over and getting stuck with too many dot balls in the process. A batter might hit a four off the first ball but still end the over with just five runs because the rest were dots. The real key is building around that boundary: four singles plus one four gets you eight runs without risk, compared to one boundary followed by five dots for just five runs.
This isn’t just about individual overs — it’s about sustained pressure on the bowling side. When batters consistently rotate strike, they force captains to keep changing fields, prevent bowlers from settling into rhythm, and create opportunities for the loose delivery. The psychological impact is immense: bowlers become frustrated when they can’t build dot-ball pressure, leading to the very mistakes that good ODI batters capitalize on.
The mathematics are compelling, but the execution requires patience. That boundary every 2–3 overs approach, supplemented by regular strike rotation, transforms modest-looking totals. This subtle craft is what turns 270–280 scores into 320–330 ones — the difference between a competitive and a commanding total.
The ripple effect is clear: teams start strong in the powerplay but lose momentum in the middle. By the final 10 overs they’re either short of wickets or forced into desperate acceleration, leading to collapses. The middle overs become about survival rather than progression, exactly the opposite of what makes ODI batting compelling.
England’s 2019 World Cup campaign exemplifies the opposite problem perfectly. Despite their aggressive reputation, they frequently collapsed when their power-hitting approach failed. Against Sri Lanka, they went from 186/1 to 212 all out, unable to adapt when boundary-hitting became difficult. Compare this to New Zealand in the same tournament — teams like Kane Williamson and Ross Taylor consistently found ways to keep the scoreboard moving even when boundaries dried up.
Bowling: Patience Over Panic
The same problem affects bowlers. Just as batters need the discipline to rotate strike, bowlers need the patience to deliver consistent 2–3 run overs without panicking. But T20 conditioning has made many of them reactive.
The classic example: a bowler concedes a boundary early in the over, then chases the “magic ball” instead of sticking to his plan. Five good balls followed by a loose delivery still makes it an eight-run over. Pressure built is pressure wasted.
Just as a batter’s dots cancel out their boundaries, a bowler’s one mistake cancels out their discipline. ODI bowling requires the calm acceptance that a boundary doesn’t ruin the over — but a lapse in patience does.
Equally, teams have leaned too heavily on defensive all-rounders. Containing runs without taking wickets in the middle overs achieves little. Successful ODI sides persist with genuine wicket-takers, because dismissals — not dot-ball pressure alone — change games. India exemplifies this with specialists like Kuldeep, Chahal, or Jadeja, who attack even if they sometimes concede. Conceding 150 runs with four wickets is more valuable than 130 runs with none.
Australia’s recent struggles highlight this perfectly. Their reliance on Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, and part-time bowlers in middle overs often leaves them toothless when established batters settle in. Without specialist wicket-takers like a prime Shane Warne or Stuart MacGill, they’re reduced to hoping batters make mistakes rather than creating dismissals.
Doing the “Boring Job” & Reading Conditions
The most undervalued aspect of ODI batting, especially in the middle overs, is what can only be called doing the boring job — rotating strike consistently over long stretches, keeping the scoreboard moving at 5–6 runs per over for 15–17 overs. It might not look flashy, but it lays the platform for acceleration later. This requires patience, discipline, and self-control — qualities that seem to be fading in modern batting.
The psychological challenge is immense. Batters must resist the T20-conditioned urge for immediate gratification, accepting that building an innings is more valuable than individual highlights. It’s about understanding that a solid 15-over period scoring 85-90 runs without losing wickets is infinitely more valuable than a flashy 50 off 25 balls that leaves the team five wickets down.
This boring job isn’t just about individual technique — it’s about partnership batting. The best ODI pairs communicate constantly, ensuring the strike keeps rotating, taking calculated risks only when the bowler offers them. They understand that momentum in ODIs is built gradually, not in explosive bursts. Equally crucial is reading conditions and setting realistic targets. Not every pitch allows you to score 300–325; sometimes 250–260 is a winning total. Many teams, in their pursuit of an arbitrary “par” score, end up getting bowled out cheaply when the conditions don’t warrant aggressive strokeplay. Great ODI batting is about awareness — understanding how the wicket is behaving, what bowling attack you’re facing, and adjusting accordingly.
India’s 2023 World Cup campaign perfectly exemplifies this approach in action. Their dominance wasn’t built on explosive powerplay hitting or death-overs carnage — it was constructed through methodical middle-overs batting. Whether scoring 397 against New Zealand or defending 229 against England, the template remained consistent: Indian batters took it deep, refused to throw their wickets away, and allowed the innings to build naturally.
The statistics tell the story: Kohli’s 765 runs came at a strike rate of just 90.31, yet he was the tournament’s leading run-scorer. Shreyas Iyer averaged 67 while rotating strike beautifully. KL Rahul’s innings construction was exemplary — he understood his role as the middle-order anchor, allowing others to play around him. Even their big totals weren’t built through T20-style hitting but through sustained pressure over 35-40 overs.
Most tellingly, India’s approach worked regardless of conditions. On turning tracks in Delhi and Mumbai, they posted competitive totals by refusing to panic when boundaries were hard to find. Against pace-friendly attacks, they absorbed pressure and found ways to keep the scoreboard moving. This adaptability — reading conditions and adjusting accordingly — is what modern ODI teams lack.
The contrast with other teams was stark. England’s batting collapses, Australia’s middle-order fragility, and Pakistan’s inconsistency all stemmed from the same problem: an inability to construct ODI innings properly. They’d either get bogged down completely or try to force the pace and lose wickets in clusters. India’s batters mastered the art of doing the boring job — excelling at rotating strike, building partnerships, and finding boundaries without gambling their wickets.
Captaincy: The Defensive Trap
Perhaps the most damaging T20 influence has been on ODI captaincy. Captains have become overly defensive, applying short-format thinking to a longer game that rewards patience and calculated aggression.
The middle overs often expose this mindset. Instead of setting attacking fields and backing wicket-takers, captains opt for defensive fields and “safe” all-rounders. In T20s you can survive a quiet middle phase, but in ODIs this hands the initiative to the batting side.
Consider the contrasting approaches of MS Dhoni versus many current ODI captains. Dhoni would often bring Ravindra Jadeja or Ravichandran Ashwin into the attack during partnerships, setting close catchers and slip fielders even in the middle overs. He understood that taking wickets changes the entire complexion of an ODI innings. Modern captains, by contrast, often deploy defensive rings from overs 15-40, hoping to contain rather than create breakthroughs.
This defensive mindset extends to field placements. Where Dhoni might have had a slip and short cover for his spinners, creating genuine chances, today’s captains prefer sweepers on both sides and mid-on pushed back. The message to bowlers is clear: don’t concede boundaries, rather than take wickets. This approach might limit immediate damage, but it rarely produces the gamechanging moments that define successful ODI sides.
Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy campaign offers a perfect counter-example. Sarfaraz Ahmed consistently backed his strike bowlers — Hassan Ali, Mohammad Amir, and Shadab Khan — with attacking fields throughout the middle overs. Even when they occasionally went for runs, the wicket-taking approach ultimately proved match-winning. Their semi-final against England and the final against India were won precisely because they attacked when other captains would have defended.
Smart ODI captaincy means being proactive — accepting the early single, bowling to your fields, and backing specialists to break partnerships. It’s not about limiting damage, but about creating game-changing moments. Teams that forget this rarely bowl opponents out; those that remember it control matches.
Where Does ODI Cricket Go From Here?
The future of the format depends on whether cricket boards address the grassroots decline. Even if multi-day cricket cannot thrive everywhere, 50-over competitions must be preserved. Without them, international cricket will only produce players trained for T20, leaving ODIs in limbo.
The solutions require both structural changes and financial commitments:
Mandatory Domestic Requirements: Cricket boards should mandate that every Full Member nation runs at least a 10-team, home-and-away 50-over competition annually. The ICC could make this a condition for receiving development funding or hosting rights for major tournaments.
Financial Restructuring: Currently, T20 leagues offer astronomical rewards while 50-over cricket pays modestly. Boards need to create meaningful financial incentives — perhaps match fees for domestic 50-over cricket should be double those of T20 competitions. Prize pools for domestic one-day tournaments should rival those of T20 leagues.
Player Pathway Requirements: Young players shouldn’t be eligible for international ODI selection without having played a minimum number of domestic 50-over matches. This forces development pathways to take the format seriously.
Broadcasting Innovation: The ICC should negotiate broadcast deals that specifically protect ODI cricket’s scheduling and coverage. Perhaps a minimum number of ODI matches per bilateral series, or guaranteed prime-time slots for major ODI tournaments.
Coaching Certification: National coaching programs should include mandatory modules on ODI-specific skills — strike rotation, middle-over bowling, innings construction. Coaches who can’t teach these skills shouldn’t be coaching at elite levels.
Tournament Structure: The ICC could experiment with a global 50-over league system, similar to the World Test Championship, where bilateral ODI series contribute to an annual championship. This gives every ODI match meaning and ensures regular scheduling. Strike rotation, innings construction, wicket-taking patience, and situational awareness don’t appear overnight — they are habits built through repetition. The current system produces players who can hit sixes and bowl yorkers but struggle with the subtle arts that make ODI cricket compelling.
The 50-over game still offers unmatched tactical depth: skill, patience, and calculation. But if ignored, it risks turning into nothing more than an extended T20. The “forgotten art” of ODI cricket is worth saving — but only if we invest in teaching and practicing the skills that make it unique.
Without these changes, we’ll continue watching international teams stumble through ODI series, unable to bat 50 overs or bowl with patience. The format that once showcased cricket’s complete skill set will become a relic — entertaining occasionally, but lacking the substance that made it special. The choice is clear: invest in ODI cricket’s unique demands now, or watch it fade into irrelevance.
Mumbai cricket has a long history of producing exceptional talent, and one of the brightest young names making noise right now is Abir Chadha, a 17-year-old right-arm fast bowler who can also contribute with the bat. With match-winning spells, all-round consistency, and recent recognition at both divisional and state levels, Abir is shaping up as a player to watch in the coming years.
Early Journey: Harris Shield and School Cricket
Abir first made a mark in the Harris Shield, one of Mumbai’s most prestigious school tournaments. In a standout performance, he picked up 5 wickets and scored 30 runs in the same match, proving early that he wasn’t just a bowler but a dependable all-rounder.
He carried this form into the District School Games (DSO), where he captained his team. Under his leadership, the side topped their group stage, while Abir himself bagged 9 wickets in 4 matches. His ability to deliver with the ball and guide his teammates underlined his growing maturity as a cricketer.
Kalpesh Koli Tournament & Naren Tamhane Trophy
Selectors soon recognized Abir’s potential. He was picked for the Kalpesh Koli U16 summer camp in back-to-back years, a sign of his steady progress in the Mumbai cricketing structure.
As he moved up the ranks, Abir featured in the Naren Tamhane Trophy (U19) across two seasons. One of his most memorable spells came when he bowled 12 overs, taking 4 wickets for 57 runs, earning the Man of the Match award. Performances like these show his ability to shine even in competitive, longer-format matches.
Bhama Cup and Invitational Games Performances
Abir Chadha continued his strong run in the Bhama Cup, where he picked 3 wickets for just 6 runs in 4 overs in the first match, winning Man of the Match yet again. In the next game, he scored 30 runs, proving that his batting is more than just a bonus.
But the highlight of his recent career came in the Maharashtra Invitational Games. In one match, he tore through the opposition with a 9-wicket haul claiming 5 wickets in the first innings and 4 in the second. Such dominance with the ball speaks volumes about his pace, control, and match-winning temperament.
Recognition in 2025: State & MCA Selection
The year 2025 has already brought big milestones for Abir Chadha. He was selected as a net bowler for the Under-19 state team, giving him exposure to elite-level training and competition. Adding to this, he earned a place in the Top 30 bowlers camp for the MCA A B C Division selections at BKC, cementing his reputation as one of Mumbai’s most promising young fast bowlers.
Abir Chadha’s Growing Reputation
At just 17, Abir has already made his presence felt in tournaments like the Harris Shield, DSO, Kalpesh Koli Tournament, Naren Tamhane Trophy, Bhama Cup, and Maharashtra Invitational Games. His ability to consistently take wickets, lead teams, and step up in big moments shows he has the temperament and skillset to keep moving forward.
With his recent recognition from MCA and the state setup, Abir Chadha is on track to become one of the standout fast bowlers from Mumbai’s new generation. For cricket fans and selectors following the city’s next crop of talent, his name is one that will keep coming up.
Yogesh Anand Renjala’s journey in cricket has been built on equal parts passion and persistence. With over a decade of coaching experience, he has dedicated his life to developing players, refining their skills, and instilling the values that cricket truly stands for discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
As the Founder and Head Coach of Cricket Life Academy in Mumbai, Yogesh has spent 10 years mentoring aspiring cricketers. His role goes far beyond teaching technique. He works closely with players to sharpen their mental conditioning, tactical understanding, and ability to perform under pressure. Whether it’s one-on-one coaching sessions or guiding entire squads, his approach combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of player psychology.
Yogesh’s coaching philosophy is rooted in building a culture of excellence. He has been instrumental in arranging academy tournaments to track progress, refine team dynamics, and prepare his students for competitive cricket. Formerly, he also served as the Cricket Coach of Delhi Titans Champions in the Actor Cricket Bash League, where he brought his professional touch to the franchise setup.
His credibility is further strengthened by formal coaching certifications. Yogesh holds a Level-1 certification from Coaching Beyond in Chennai, mentored by Ravi Shastri and trained under elite coaches like Bharat Arun and R Sridhar. This exposure gave him unique insights into modern cricket coaching techniques and the importance of blending technical skills with sports science.
On the playing front, Yogesh has had a rich journey of his own. He competed in Mumbai’s A division cricket and represented leading corporate teams like Nirlon, Pantaloons Future Group, Oriental Insurance, and DTDC in prestigious tournaments such as the Times Shield. He has also featured in historic competitions like the Kanga League, Purshottam Shield, and Talim Shield. Expanding his horizons overseas, Yogesh played for two years in the UK Minor County League, gaining valuable international exposure and experience in English conditions.
Over the years, he has also shared the field with top-level players such as Rohit Sharma, Shivam Dubey, Sarfaraz Khan, Harmeet Singh, and Saurabh Netravalkar. His involvement with the Mumbai Cricket Association, including the MCA Summer Camp for U14 and U16 at Kandivali Centre, further reflects his role in the city’s cricketing ecosystem.
What sets Yogesh apart is his commitment to developing complete players. He doesn’t just focus on skills with the bat or ball he works on character, fitness, mindset, and tactical awareness. His players are encouraged to think like cricketers, not just play like them.
From his early playing days to his current role as a mentor and coach, Yogesh Anand Renjala continues to shape cricket careers with the same passion that first drew him to the sport. For him, cricket is not just a game but a lifelong commitment to excellence and his students are living proof of that dedication.
The recently concluded USA Nationals U15 T20 Championship turned into a landmark tournament for Cricmax talent Mahek Desai, who not only led from the front as captain of Team Blue (New Jersey) but also walked away as the Best Batsman and MVP of the tournament.
At just 14, Mahek displayed maturity well beyond her age, finishing as the highest run-scorer with an impressive 234 runs in 5 matches, including a highest score of 79. Her consistency with the bat and sharp leadership were key factors in guiding Team Blue to lift the championship trophy.
Consistent Performances Match by Match
Match 1 – Blue vs Green: Steady start with 34 runs off 41 balls.
Match 2 – Blue vs Red: Explosive knock of 79 off 54 balls, setting the tone for the tournament.
Match 3 – Team Blue: Quickfire 35 runs off 22 balls, showing her ability to accelerate.
Match 4 – vs Red: Contributed 15 runs off just 7 balls, adding important runs in the middle order.
Final Match: Led from the front with a match-winning 71 off 53 balls, sealing the title for her side.
A Journey Rooted in Hard Work
Mahek’s cricketing journey is deeply tied to Cricmax, where she has been training since she was just 9 years old. Her father, Coach Viraj Desai, who is also part of the Cricmax coaching staff, has played a pivotal role in her development. His tireless efforts and guidance have shaped Mahek into one of the most promising young cricketers in USA women’s cricket
Rising Star of USA Cricket
Captaining Team Blue and finishing as the tournament’s standout performer is no small feat. With her aggressive stroke play, calm temperament, and ability to lead under pressure, Mahek Desai has made a strong case as one of the brightest young prospects in American cricket.
Her success is not just a personal milestone but also a proud moment for Cricmax Academy, which continues to produce players making their mark at national level.
What this really means is that USA women’s cricket is seeing new stars emerge and Mahek Desai is already a name to watch for the future.
When you talk about cricket professionals who have seamlessly transitioned from playing at the highest levels to shaping future talent, the name Ajit Pascoal Rodrigues deserves attention. With over two decades of experience as a cricketer and coach, Ajit has built a reputation that stretches across India and beyond.
Playing Career
Ajit’s playing career began with a strong foundation in Mumbai cricket. He represented Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) at the First Division level and was also a Ranji Trophy probable between 2002 and 2004. His performances earned him recognition as a fast bowler, and in 2002, he attended the prestigious MRF Pace Foundation Camp, known for grooming some of India’s finest pacers.
His domestic career was decorated with consistent appearances in Mumbai’s competitive A Division Times Shield, where he played for Orient Ship Agency (1998–2004) and Sungrace Mafatlal (2005). He also turned out for clubs like Victory CC and Parsee Gymkhana, adding valuable experience to his cricketing resume.
Ajit’s talent wasn’t limited to Indian conditions. He gained international playing exposure with stints in South Africa for Chestworth Club (2000), in England for Harambe CC (2002), and in the UAE’s KPL tournament with Yogi Group (2015). These experiences gave him a deeper understanding of diverse playing styles and conditions.
Coaching Qualifications
What sets Ajit apart is his pursuit of continuous learning in cricket education. His coaching credentials include:
- Cricket Australia Sports Education Diploma (2009, Mumbai)
- ICC Cricket Coaching Online – Level 1 (2021)
- MCA Cricket Coaching Level 1 (2006, Mumbai)
- BCCI Cricket Coaching Level 0 (2024/25)
- Art of Coaching (Thailand, 2017)
- Cricket Psychology (Mumbai, 2018)
- Crick Kingdom Coaching Certification – Level 1
- OMTEX ICWC Cricket Institute – Level 1
Fitness Professional Diploma from Arrow Yoga Fitness Academy
This blend of technical, psychological, and fitness qualifications highlights Ajit’s holistic approach to coaching.
Coaching Experience
Ajit’s coaching career is as impressive as his playing journey. He has been a key figure in several prestigious academies and institutions, taking on head coach roles and mentoring upcoming cricketers. His major contributions include:
- Head Coach, Celebrity Cricket League (CCL), 2022–2024
- Head Coach, Hill Spring International School
- Head Coach, Dinesh Lad Cricket Foundation (2020–2025)
- Head Coach, OMTEX ICWC Cricket Institute (2020–2025)
- Head Coach, Dilip Vengsarkar Cricket Academy (Oval, 2013–15)
- Head Coach, Terseee Camp, P.J. Hindu Gym (2015)
- Head Coach, Crick Kingdom – Rohit Sharma Academy (2018–19)
- Head Coach, Ryan International Sports Club (2006–10)
Alongside these, Ajit has been deeply connected with MCA coaching programs, guiding Under-19, Under-12, and Sports Star Trophy teams. Notably, he coached the Vijay Manjrekar Team to victory in 2008.
Consultancy and International Coaching
Ajit’s expertise has also been sought in consultancy roles. In 2024/25, he worked as a Cricket Consultant for VELS International Cricket School in Chennai, helping develop structured training modules, mentoring staff, and identifying young talent.
Expanding his international coaching footprint, he is set to conduct a Coaching Camp with Luton Town and Indians Cricket Club (LTICC) in Bedfordshire, UK, in June 2025. This reflects the growing demand for his experience in grassroots and advanced cricket development globally.
The Bigger Picture
From being a Ranji Trophy probable and a Times Shield regular to becoming a globally certified coach and consultant, Ajit Pascoal Rodrigues has lived cricket in every sense. His journey shows how experience, when paired with continuous learning, can transform into lasting impact.
Today, Ajit is not just training young players in Mumbai but also shaping cricket programs internationally. His career stands as a testament to dedication, adaptability, and the love of the game.
The Kerala Cricket League 2025 lit up Greenfield Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on 23 August, as fans witnessed a thrilling clash between Thrissur Titans and Calicut Globstars. It was a game filled with power hitting, tight bowling, and a sensational century that stole the show.
After winning the toss, Calicut Globstars chose to bowl first, looking to restrict Titans on a good batting surface. But what followed was a masterclass in batting by Ahammad Imran. Opening the innings, Imran dominated from the start and went on to score a blistering 100 runs off just 55 balls, lacing his knock with 11 boundaries and 5 sixes. His innings set the tone for Thrissur Titans, giving them the platform to post a commanding total.
Supporting Imran, Shoun Roger chipped in with a handy 35 runs from 26 balls, striking 6 crisp fours. Together, they ensured the Titans finished strongly at 209/5 in 20 overs, a target that put immense pressure on Calicut Globstars.
Chasing 210, Calicut Globstars needed a strong start and they got just that thanks to Salman Nizar and Maruthungal Ajinas. Nizar played a brilliant knock of 77 runs off 44 balls, mixing clean hitting with calculated aggression, while Ajinas added 58 runs from 40 balls, keeping their side alive in the chase. The duo built a partnership that worried the Titans camp and kept the stadium buzzing with every boundary.
The difference maker in the second innings was MD Niddesh. The Titans’ bowler held his nerve in the death overs, returning figures of 3 wickets for 29 runs in 4 overs, dismantling Globstars’ middle order at crucial moments. His spell, combined with Imran’s batting brilliance, sealed the victory.
With this win, Thrissur Titans marked an important statement in the Kerala Cricket League 2025 campaign. But the day truly belonged to Ahammad Imran. A century in a T20 format is always special, and doing it under the lights at Greenfield Stadium makes it even more memorable. His aggressive stroke play not only thrilled the crowd but also set the benchmark for batting performances in this year’s league.
LISNSLAND’s UK tour proved to be a valuable learning curve, filled with competitive fixtures and standout individual displays. Leading from the front was skipper Vansh Dhawangale, who not only marshalled his side with composure but also made telling contributions with both bat and ball.
The tour began with a challenging outing against Stowe School, Milton Keynes, where the hosts piled up 309/5 in 35 overs. Vansh bowled a steady spell, finishing with 1 wicket for 42 in 5 overs, while teammate Dhiyaan T claimed 2 wickets. Chasing a tall total, HillSpring International struggled to 148 all out, but Vansh held his ground with a brilliant 82 not out, showing class and determination.
On 27 June, against Luton Town and Indians Cricket Club, LISNSLAND battled in Wardown Park under the lights. The side posted 172 in 25 overs, with Dhiyaan making 52* and Vansh adding 32 valuable runs in a pressure situation.
Two days later, on 29 June, Vansh once again showcased his batting consistency, scoring a fluent 55 runs against Leighton Buzzard Town Cricket Club at Bell Close Ground. His innings underlined his ability to anchor the innings and provide stability at the top.
Across the tour, LISNSLAND had mixed results some tough defeats balanced by spirited wins. They bounced back with strong performances against Old Bradwell New City CC and later edged out MK Stallions in the final fixture.
Through it all, Vansh Dhawangale stood out not just as a captain with sharp tactical awareness, but as a player who delivered when it mattered. With scores of 82, 32, 34, 55, 70* and a key bowling contribution, he established himself as the backbone of the team. His calm presence and ability to inspire discipline and teamwork left a mark on the squad, making the UK tour a milestone in both his personal journey and LISNSLAND’s development as a team.
In the Kanga League A Division clash between Shivaji Park Gymkhana and National Cricket Club, captain Sairaj Patil turned the game into his personal stage with a match-winning all-round performance.
Shivaji Park Gymkhana, batting first, struggled against Patil’s relentless bowling. The National Cricket Club skipper tore through their batting line-up, claiming a remarkable 7 wickets for just 22 runs in 14 overs. His spell dismantled any hope of a big total, restricting Shivaji Park Gymkhana to 89 all out in 36 overs.
Chasing a modest target, National Cricket Club had to fight through some resistance but eventually crossed the line at 91/8 in 22 overs. Patil wasn’t done yet he chipped in with a valuable 23 runs off 26 balls, ensuring his side completed the win.
With both ball and bat, Sairaj Patil showcased why he’s one of the most dependable players in the league. A seven-wicket haul and a crucial batting contribution in the same match is the stuff of dream performances and National Cricket Club will be hoping for more such displays from their inspirational captain as the season progresses.
The New Jersey Regional U-15 cricket team has stamped their authority on the Eastern Region Championship, emerging as champions and booking their place in the prestigious National Tournament to be held in Atlanta starting from 29th August. Guided by coach Shailesh Nakashe, and led brilliantly by captain Raghav Lakshmanan the team dominated Group A with back-to-back clinical wins.
First Match: New Jersey vs EMW
Winning the toss and opting to bowl first, New Jersey’s bowlers set the tone early. EMW was bundled out for just 80 runs in 40 overs, thanks to a fiery spell from Samarth Kale, who picked up 3 wickets in 3.3 overs. Thaman Dilip and Praneel Pandya chipped in with 2 wickets each, keeping the opposition under constant pressure.
In the chase, New Jersey made light work of the target, cruising to victory with ease. Samarth Kale’s all-round brilliance earned him the Man of the Match award.
Second Match: GA–FL–EMW Combined vs New Jersey
In their second outing, New Jersey once again elected to bowl first after winning the toss. The decision paid off handsomely, as they dismissed the opposition for just 70 runs. Thaman Dilip led the attack with 3 wickets in 5 overs, while Raj Parikh, Siddhith Krishna, and Samarth Kale took 2 wickets apiece.
Chasing the modest total, New Jersey raced to victory in just 6.2 overs. Thaman Dilip’s match-winning spell earned him the Man of the Match title.
Fielding Standout: Aarav Alok Patel
While the bowlers and batters grabbed the headlines, wicketkeeper Aarav Alok Patel quietly made his mark as the best wicketkeeper of the tournament, taking an impressive 9 catches behind the stumps. His sharp glovework and presence behind the wickets proved crucial in New Jersey’s dominant run.
Third Match: New Jersey vs Georgia
The third fixture turned out to be a rain-affected encounter, reduced to 25 overs per side. Batting first, New Jersey managed 97 runs in their allotted overs. Georgia chased down the target to hand New Jersey their only defeat of the tournament.
On to the Nationals
Despite the loss against Georgia, New Jersey topped the table from Group A and sealed their spot in the nationals. From Group B, North Carolina finished at the top and will also compete in Atlanta.
- New Jersey (East)
- North Carolina (East)
- Bay Area Regional (West)
- Missouri (Central)
Coach Shailesh Nakashe praised his team’s focus and execution, highlighting the bowlers’ discipline, the batters’ intent, and Aarav’s outstanding work behind the stumps. The boys will now aim to carry their winning momentum to Atlanta as they face the best U-15 regional teams from across the country.