Cricket is a sport that requires hard work and dedication. The sport places immense physical and mental demands on its players. From being physically fit to having a strong mind, players must constantly push their limits, refine their skills, and stay mentally resilient to succeed at the highest level. But let me ask you a question. Who shapes these things? Who brings out the best in them? It’s the coaches that shape young talent and identify the potential in them. Here’s one such coach who has brought out the best in young players. Here’s Coach Shailesh Nakashe’s journey.
Coach Shailesh has mastered the art of shaping young cricketers, making player development seem effortless. Whether it’s U11, U13, U15, or U17 teams, producing champions under his guidance has become second nature.
Coaching Career:
With over 12 years of coaching experience, Coach Shailesh Nakashe has played an important role in helping young cricketers reach their potential. In July, 2022, Shailesh travelled with Manhattan Yorkers which is a Minor League team in USA to gain some experience in the competition.
His team may have reached second in the U13 USA Regional Team in 2023 but the players got tremendous exposure that helped them grow, refine their skills, and prepare for higher levels of competition.
For three consecutive years, Coach Shailesh led his U13, U15, and U17 teams to victory in the East Youth Cricket League League in New Jersey. He helped young talents understand the game better during his tenure.
Coach Shailesh also worked for CricMax for three years. From Level 1 to Level 2, his coaching experience helped build foundational and competitive skills between the age groups 11 to 17.
But his most notable achievement came when he was the National Tournament Coach for New Jersey State Team (Under 15), a tournament organised by the USA Cricket Board. His side won the championship showing leadership at the highest level.
With his team winning the championship, this proved that Coach Shailesh showed leadership of highest quality at a more recognised level.
Just last year, he was appointed as a selector for Washington DC Under 15 State Team. Thanks to his contribution, his team emerged victorious in the regional tournament. This shows that he was not just an excellent coach but also an excellent reader of players as a selector.
Coach Shailesh also opened Warriors Cricket Club in Mumbai, training more than a 100 aspiring cricketers who want to make it big in the international level. With an experience of over 9 years as a coach and mentor, young talents have gained vast experience providing them with the skills and guidance needed to compete at higher levels of the game.
List of Certifications:
– International Cricket Council (ICC) Foundation Course.
– International Cricket Council (ICC) Umpiring Course
– International Cricket COuncil (ICC) Pitch Curator Certification.
– International Cricket Council (ICC) Coaching Level 1 certified.
– International Cricket Council (ICC) Coaching Level 2 certified.
Mumbai, January 28th – The 9th Bhaskar Thakur Memorial U-12 Cricket Tournament witnessed a record-breaking performance as Worli SC U-12 crushed Merry Cricketers U-12 in a one-sided contest at P.J. Hindu Gymkhana.
Winning the toss and opting to bat first, Worli SC’s young batting sensation Arshiyan Shaikh delivered an unforgettable innings, scoring 204 runs off just 92 balls, smashing 35 fours in the process. He was well-supported by Aditya Yadav, who played a blistering knock of 80 runs off 45 balls, laced with 11 fours. Their remarkable partnership helped Worli SC post a mammoth 327/0 in their allotted overs.
In reply, Merry Cricketers U-12 crumbled under intense pressure and were bowled out for just 27 runs. Vedannt Panday led the bowling attack with an exceptional spell, taking 4 wickets for just 4 runs in 5 overs. Shaurya Gharat was equally lethal, bagging 3 wickets for 4 runs in 3 overs, ensuring an emphatic victory for their side.
The Worli SC U-12 squad has been training rigorously for the past year under the expert guidance of coach Ajinkya Patil, who has been instrumental in shaping their skills at Worli Sports Club. His coaching philosophy and dedication have played a crucial role in their dominant performance in the tournament.
Speaking about the team’s success, coach Ajinkya Patil expressed his delight, saying:
“Very happy with the performance, and we are seeing the results of our last year of hard work. We are confident of winning this tournament.”
With such a commanding start, Worli SC U-12 has sent a strong message to the competition, and all eyes will be on them as they aim for the championship.
At just 15 years old, Krrish Upadhyay is making waves in Mumbai’s cricketing circuit with his exceptional performances, leadership abilities, and sharp wicketkeeping skills. A product of Noorjahan Cricket Academy (NNCA) in Borivali West under the expert guidance of Coach Usman Shaikh, Krrish’s journey reflects his immense talent and relentless determination.
Krrish first showcased his brilliance in the Ajit Naik Memorial Trophy, where his 11 dismissals in four matches earned him the Best Wicketkeeper Award. His reflexes were on full display with seven caught behinds, one stumping, and a runout. As captain of Kalyan Centre, he displayed his batting prowess with a gritty 77 off 121 balls, rescuing his team after a top-order collapse. His remarkable performances in this tournament earned him a place in the Mumbai Under-14 probables squad, highlighting his potential at a young age
In the Harris Shield Elite Group Tournament, representing Anjuman-I-Islam School, Krrish delivered one of the most memorable knocks of the tournament. Coming in at number 10 against Matunga Premier School, Krrish showcased extraordinary composure and resilience. He smashed an unbeaten 100 off 125 balls, steering his team to a crucial victory. This rare achievement for a lower-order batsman solidified his reputation as a player who thrives under pressure and has the ability to turn games around. Across the tournament, Krrish amassed 212 runs in seven innings at an impressive average of 54, contributing consistently in critical moments.
As captain of Worli Cricket Club in another tournament, Krrish led his team to victory with his tactical acumen and consistent batting. His standout knock of 75 off 80 balls in the final against MIG Cricket Club was instrumental in securing the title for his team.
Krrish’s success can be attributed to the rigorous training he received at Noorjahan Cricket Academy (NNCA) under Coach Usman Shaikh. Known for his emphasis on discipline, technique, and mental toughness, Coach Shaikh has been pivotal in shaping Krrish’s cricketing journey. The academy, a hub for nurturing young talent, continues to produce future cricket stars, with Krrish emerging as one of its brightest prospects.
With his all-round abilities, leadership skills, and consistent performances, Krrish Upadhyay is undoubtedly a name to watch as he continues to rise through the ranks of Mumbai cricket.
Dombivali: Since its establishment in January 2016, GM Cricket Academy, founded by the dedicated and visionary coach Gopal Shriyan, has become a prominent hub for nurturing cricketing talent in the region. Shriyan, a retired cricketer from the Ministry of Defence, brings a wealth of experience and discipline from his illustrious past, making a significant impact on young cricketers under his guidance.
A Distinguished Career
Before transitioning into coaching, Gopal Shriyan had a stellar career as a cricketer, representing the Army Ministry of Defence. During his playing years, he was known for his consistency, discipline, and leadership qualities. These attributes have seamlessly transitioned into his role as a coach, where he has been instrumental in shaping the future of budding cricketers. Shriyan’s dedication and passion for the sport earned him the Best Coach Award in Dombivali, a testament to his exceptional contribution to cricket.
The Rise of GM Cricket Academy
Gopal Shriyan founded GM Cricket Academy in January 2016 with the vision of providing structured and high-quality cricket training to young talents. Over the years, the academy has become a powerhouse, producing players who excel in local and regional tournaments.
One of the academy’s recent highlights was its victory in the Master’s Trophy Cricket Tournament organized by the Santosh Sports Cricket Academy. Competing against top teams from the Kalyan-Dombivali region, the U-12 team of GM Cricket Academy clinched the championship with an emphatic performance.
In the final match, the team scored 163 runs and restricted their opponents to 143, securing a thrilling 20-run win. Key performances included Dhruv Bhalerao, who scored 43 runs and took 4 wickets, and Lilith Chauhan, who contributed a crucial 29 runs. The victory was celebrated as a testament to Coach Shriyan’s ability to foster talent and instill a winning mentality in his players.
A Visionary Mentor
Gopal Shriyan’s coaching is characterized by his focus on discipline, technique, and holistic development. Drawing from his experiences in the Ministry of Defence, he emphasizes hard work, resilience, and teamwork—qualities that have become hallmarks of GM Cricket Academy.
The academy has garnered widespread acclaim for its consistent performances, with its young players excelling in numerous local tournaments. Parents and players alike have praised Shriyan for his approachable yet disciplined coaching style, which has transformed the academy into a nurturing ground for future cricketing stars.
A Legacy of Success
The Master’s Trophy victory is just one of the many accolades under Coach Shriyan’s guidance. With a robust training regimen and a vision to develop well-rounded cricketers, GM Cricket Academy continues to thrive. The recent tournament, attended by dignitaries such as MLA Sanjay Dutt, highlighted the academy’s impact and Shriyan’s unwavering dedication to the sport.
As the founder of GM Cricket Academy and a retired Ministry of Defence cricketer, Gopal Shriyan’s journey is an inspiring story of passion, perseverance, and excellence. His work has not only transformed young cricketers’ lives but has also elevated the cricketing standards of Dombivali, ensuring a bright future for the sport in the region.
Kalyan: A grand start to the 2025 District-level Sports Festival was marked by the initiation of the Master Trophy T20 Cricket Tournament for players under the age of 10, organized jointly by the Santosh Sports Cricket Academy and Sports Care Foundation. This tournament is being held in memory of late Avinash Kadam, a cricketer from the Mumbai Cricket Association, and late Yashwantrao Ombase, a police constable.
The Sports Festival, held in Thane district, includes a diverse range of sports such as cricket, skating, taekwondo, mallakhamb, chess, football, karate, yoga, carom, athletics, aatya-patya, and lagori. The inauguration of cricket and taekwondo events marked a spectacular beginning for this multi-sport festival.
The opening ceremony was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including:
The event was also attended by prominent figures such as Santosh Sports Cricket Academy Director Santosh Pathak, Coach Paresh Hindurao, and Vinayak Raul, among others.
This multi-sport festival is expected to bring together a large number of young athletes, fostering a spirit of sportsmanship and community engagement in the district.
In the world of cricket, where talent and hard work often collide, Coach Ravi Tiwari stands as a beacon of both dedication and achievement. With a journey that spans over a decade, Tiwari’s impact on the cricketing world is not just limited to his impressive playing career but also his remarkable work as a coach and mentor to aspiring cricketers. His contribution to the sport, both at the local and international level, has earned him a respected position in the cricketing community.
Ravi Tiwari’s cricketing journey began early, marked by a string of accomplishments that showcase his deep commitment to the sport. A distinguished player, Tiwari earned several accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious Best Bowler award at a renowned cricket tournament. His prowess on the field was further demonstrated when he was recognized as the Best Player of the District Cricket League. His excellence as a fast bowler earned him spots in various prominent tours, including an international tour where he represented India in a high-profile cricket cup.
Throughout his playing career, Tiwari also excelled as a fielder, winning the Best Fielder award during one of his tours across India. His playing career extended to the University level, where he represented a well-known college in Mumbai. He also participated in corporate tournaments, further honing his skills and continuing to shine through, including his ongoing participation in the MCA B Division.
Coach Ravi Tiwari’s transition from player to coach was both natural and impactful. His extensive playing experience, combined with his strategic mindset, has made him a sought-after mentor in the cricketing world. Over the years, he has worked with numerous academies, schools, and organizations across India, all while imparting his knowledge to the next generation of cricketers.
One of his key roles has been as the Head Coach at a prominent sports club, where he has nurtured several young players and helped shape their cricketing careers. Tiwari’s influence extends beyond club coaching, as he has also worked with various educational institutions and private companies, contributing to their cricket programs. His work as a coach spans multiple institutions, where he has honed the skills of budding cricketers.
Another significant chapter in his career was his time as an Assistant Coach at a renowned cricket academy owned by a well-known IPL player. It was during this period that Tiwari’s reputation as a mentor and teacher of the game grew exponentially. His passion for cricket, coupled with his ability to break down complex techniques and strategies, helped many players elevate their skills to new heights.
In addition to his stints as a coach at various institutions, Ravi Tiwari established his own cricket academy – RK Sports Academy in Kandivali. This initiative stands as a testament to Tiwari’s dedication to cricket and his vision for the future of the sport. At RK Sports Academy, Tiwari continues to inspire and guide young cricketers, helping them develop their skills and realize their potential.
His academy provides a platform for students to refine their techniques, improve their fitness, and foster a deep understanding of the game. With a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, Tiwari is shaping the future stars of Indian cricket.
Coach Ravi Tiwari’s journey from a skilled cricketer to a renowned coach is a story of unwavering dedication, continuous growth, and selfless contribution to the sport. Whether on the field or as a coach, Tiwari’s impact has been profound. He has not only played for prestigious tournaments and tours but has also trained and mentored a generation of young cricketers, shaping the future of the sport.
With his ongoing efforts at RK Sports Academy and his role as a mentor, Coach Tiwari is poised to continue influencing the cricketing world for many years to come. His legacy, built on years of hard work, expertise, and passion, will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on cricket in India and beyond.
Date: 24th January 2025
Venue: LIC Ground, Cross Maidan
In an exciting encounter of the Mumbai Indians Inter-School Cricket Under-16 Tournament. 2024-25, Anjuman I Islam Allana English High School emerged victorious with a commanding 172-run win over Sharadashram Vidyamandir English High School. The match was held at the LIC Ground, Cross Maidan, and witnessed an incredible all-round performance by Abdurrahman Khan, who stole the spotlight.
This incredible success was made possible thanks to the unwavering support of President Padmashree Dr. Zahir Kazi Sir, whose dedication has been vital in cultivating a robust cricketing culture at the school. His vision and encouragement have been the driving forces behind the team’s development and triumphs.
The victory is a testament to the perfect fusion of youthful talent and seasoned coaching. Kadir Patel, renowned for his strategic insight and vast experience, has played a key role in guiding the team to success. With the steadfast support of Dr. Zahir Kazi Sir, the school has fostered an environment where players can truly flourish and excel.
Sharadashram Vidyamandir won the toss and opted to field first, hoping to capitalize on the early conditions. However, their decision backfired as, Anjuman I Islam Allana English High School posted an imposing total of 272/9 in 40 overs. The star of the innings was Abdurrahman Khan, who played a scintillating knock of 154 not out off 120 balls, including 20 fours and 4 sixes. Despite a valiant bowling effort by Akshay Chindchwadkar, who delivered an impressive spell of 8 overs, 33 runs, and 4 wickets, Sharadashram struggled to contain the onslaught.
In response, Sharadashram Vidyamandir’s batting line-up crumbled under the pressure. They were bowled out for just 100 runs in 27.3 overs, with Uttkarsha Bhagat providing some resistance by scoring 30 off 32 balls, including 4 boundaries and a six. The bowling attack of Anjuman I Islam Allana English High School proved too strong, led once again by Abdurrahman Khan, who showcased his all-round prowess with figures of 8 overs, 1 maiden, 27 runs, and 2 wickets. He was ably supported by Prabhat Pandey, who bowled a lethal spell of 6.3 overs, 3 maidens, 9 runs, and 3 wickets, ensuring a comprehensive victory for their team.
With this dominant performance, Anjuman I Islam Allana English High School secured a 172-run victory and stamped their authority in the tournament.
The Man of the Match award deservedly went to Abdurrahman Khan for his exceptional all-round performance, which included a match-winning century and crucial wickets.
This thrilling match not only highlighted the competitive spirit of school cricket but also showcased the emergence of young talent like Abdurrahman Khan, who is undoubtedly a player to watch out for in the future.
Mumbai, Wankhede Stadium– The iconic Wankhede Stadium, synonymous with some of the greatest moments in cricketing history, celebrated its 50th anniversary in grand style. The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) marked this milestone by setting a Guinness World Record for the “Most Leather Cricket Balls Used in a Decoration.”
The remarkable feat was achieved by artistically arranging 14,505 white and red leather cricket balls to spell out “FIFTY YEARS OF WANKHEDE STADIUM” on the stadium ground. The vibrant display stood as a testament to Wankhede’s legacy as a historic venue in world cricket.
Ajinkya Naik, President of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), received the Guinness World Record certificate in a special ceremony held at the stadium. Speaking on the occasion, Ajinkya Naik said, “It is a moment of immense pride for the MCA and every cricket lover. Wankhede Stadium has witnessed countless memorable moments, and this milestone celebration is a tribute to its storied history.
The celebration brought together dignitaries, cricket administrators, and fans to honor the stadium’s legacy. Over the years, Wankhede has hosted numerous iconic matches, including the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup final where India lifted the trophy.
As theWankhede Stadium embarks on the next chapter of its journey, this record-breaking feat has further cemented its place in the annals of cricket history.
Mumbai, January 23, 2025: Anjuman Islam Allana English High School, Fort, Mumbai, began their MI Junior U-14 campaign with a resounding victory at Navroz Cricket Club, Azad Maidan. Backed by the unwavering support of President Padmshree Dr. Zahir Kazi, the team delivered a stellar all-round performance, reflecting their dedication to nurturing cricketing excellence.
The outstanding success of the team can be attributed to the unwavering support of President Padmashree Dr. Zahir Kazi whose leadership has played a pivotal role in nurturing a strong cricket culture at the school. Their vision and constant encouragement have been fundamental to the team’s development and accomplishments.
Principal Rizwana Satare Ma’am has also played a crucial role in ensuring that the team receives the necessary support and motivation to excel on such a big stage.
The school’s success was further driven by the meticulous coaching of Ghulam Parkar, a former Indian cricketer, and Kadir Patel, whose tactical insights have been instrumental in shaping the young talents.
The star of the match was Anuj Singh, who produced a sensational bowling spell, dismantling the opposition with figures of 4 overs, 0 maidens, 15 runs, and 5 wickets. His sharp line and length proved too much for the batters to handle. Aafi Shaikh provided solid support with an economical spell of 5 overs, 1 maiden, 10 runs, and 1 wicket, adding crucial pressure on the opposition.
In the batting department, Aarav Yadav stole the spotlight with an explosive knock of 37 runs in just 2.5 overs, smashing 7 boundaries and 1 six. Aarav’s fearless and aggressive approach ensured that the team cruised to victory with ease, leaving the crowd in awe of his talent.
The exceptional performances by Anuj, Aafi, and Aarav reflect the relentless efforts of Dr. Zahir Kazi and Rizwana Satare in providing an environment where young cricketers can thrive. Under the guidance of Ghulam Parkar and Kadir Patel the players demonstrated discipline, skill, and determination, setting the tone for a promising tournament ahead.
The MI Junior U-14 tournament has once again proven to be an excellent platform for budding cricketers, and Anjuman-I-Islam Allana English High School has made an emphatic statement with their dominating performance on Day 1. With the combined efforts of their coaches and the support of their visionary leaders, the team looks poised for a successful campaign.
RTO (Azad Maidan), January 22, 2025: Anjuman I Islam Allana English High School, under the leadership of the exceptional coaching duo Kadir Patel and the experienced Gulam Parkar, displayed remarkable skill and determination to secure a thrilling 5-wicket victory against IES V N Sole Guruji English School in the Mumbai Indians Inter-School Cricket Under-16 Tournament.
This remarkable success was made possible with the unwavering support of President Padmshree Dr. Zahir Kazi Sir who have been instrumental in fostering a strong cricketing culture at the school. Their vision and encouragement have been the cornerstone of the team’s growth and achievements.
Principal Rizwana Satare Ma’am has also played a crucial role in ensuring that the team receives the necessary support and motivation to excel on such a big stage.
After winning the toss, IES V N Sole Guruji opted to bat and managed a competitive total of 178 in 37.2 overs. Soham Kangane stood out with a solid 59 off 88 balls, supported by Veevek Sarvankar’s 44 off 56. However, Anjuman I Islam’s bowlers, under the strategic guidance of Kadir Patel, delivered a clinical performance. The highlight of the innings was Saurabh Yadav, who bagged a stunning hat-trick, finishing with figures of 7 overs, 32 runs, and 3 wickets. Yuvan Sharma provided excellent support, taking 2 wickets for 42 runs in 8 overs, ensuring the opposition couldn’t capitalize on their starts.
In response, Anjuman I Islam’s batting lineup, mentored by Gulam Parkar, a former India cricketer known for his expertise and experience, showcased great composure and aggression. Prabhat Pandey led the charge with a dynamic 48 off 45 balls, hitting six boundaries and two sixes, while Abdurrahman Khan contributed a quickfire 40 off 37 balls with five fours and two sixes. Their partnership, along with contributions from the middle order, helped the team chase down the target in just 30.2 overs, finishing at 181/5. Despite efforts from IES’s bowler Parth Patkar (2 wickets for 63 runs), Anjuman Islam’s batsmen remained unstoppable.
The victory reflects a perfect blend of youthful talent and experienced coaching. Kadir Patel known for his tactical acumen and discipline, and Gulam Parkar, whose wealth of experience as a former Indian cricketer adds immense value, have been instrumental in shaping the team’s success. With the strong backing of Dr. Zahir Kazi Sir and Rizwana Satare Ma’am, the school has created an environment where players thrive and excel.
The Man of the Match award was rightly awarded to Saurabh Yadav for his incredible hat-trick and match-defining bowling spell. However, this victory was a team effort, reflecting meticulous planning and the unwavering support from the coaches and school management.
Anjuman I Islam Allana English High School continues to raise the bar in school cricket. With the guidance of leaders like Dr. Zahir Kazi Sir and Rizwana Satare Ma’am and the expertise of coaches Kadir Patel and Gulam Parkar, the future of the school’s cricket team looks brighter than ever.
