Pune, February 11, 2025 – The Maharashtra Senior Men’s Invitation League witnessed an enthralling contest at MCA Pune Ground as the match between Vijay Senior Men and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar Senior Men ended in a draw. The highlight of the match was a spectacular double-century by Aadarsh Jain, who showcased his batting brilliance with a remarkable 219-run knock.
Batting first, Vijay Senior Men posted a total of 344/10 in 72.2 overs. In response, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar Senior Men put up a dominant performance, scoring 447/7 in 90 overs, courtesy of Aadarsh Jain’s masterclass innings. The young batting sensation faced 251 balls, smashing 34 boundaries and 3 sixes, displaying a fine blend of technique and aggression. His monumental effort not only put his team in a commanding position but also solidified his reputation as a rising star in Maharashtra cricket.
With limited time left in the match, Vijay Senior Men resumed their second innings and managed 140/4 in 11.2 overs, before the game concluded in a draw.
Gurukul Cricket Academy’s Rising Star
Aadarsh Jain’s phenomenal performance is a testament to his training under the expert guidance of Shreyas Magar, the founder and head coach of Gurukul Cricket Academy. Located within Gurukul Olympiad School in Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, the academy has been nurturing young cricketing talents, and Aadarsh’s innings is a reflection of the high-quality coaching and mentorship provided by Magar.
Coach Shreyas Magar’s Vision for Young Cricketers
Shreyas Magar, a reputed coach in Maharashtra’s cricketing circuit, has been instrumental in shaping young talents at Gurukul Cricket Academy. Under his mentorship, players are trained to excel in all formats of the game. Aadarsh’s performance on such a big stage is a result of years of hard work and discipline, reinforcing the academy’s growing reputation as a breeding ground for future cricketing stars.
With performances like these, both Aadarsh Jain and Gurukul Cricket Academy have firmly placed themselves on the cricketing map. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on this young talent and the academy that continues to produce quality cricketers under the leadership of Shreyas Magar.
The Star Warrior Cricket Championship 2025 witnessed outstanding performances from DM Cricket Academy’s rising talents, Kshitij Pal and Atif Zakaria, who played a crucial role in Speedster XI’s successful campaign. Under the expert guidance of Coach Durgesh Mahant, these young cricketers showcased their immense potential on the grand stage.
Kshitij Pal – A Dominant Left-Handed Batsman
Kshitij Pal, an explosive left-handed batsman, finished as the third-best batsman of the tournament, delivering match-winning knocks that left spectators in awe. His fearless stroke play and ability to score at a rapid pace were key highlights of Speedster XI’s journey.
78 runs off just 31 balls (7 fours, 6 sixes) against Star Warriors Cricket Club
80 runs off 33 balls (8 fours, 6 sixes) against Young Star CC
With his aggressive approach and impeccable timing, Kshitij proved to be a game-changer for his team, dismantling bowling attacks with ease.
Atif Zakaria – The Tournament’s Best Bowler
Atif Zakaria, a promising left-arm medium-fast bowler, earned the prestigious Best Bowler of the Tournament award. His disciplined line and length, combined with his ability to strike at crucial moments, made him a nightmare for opposition batters.
1 over, 2 wickets, 6 runs vs. Star Warrior Cricket Club
3 overs, 2 wickets, 10 runs vs. Young Star CC
2 overs, 1 wicket, 23 runs vs. Vision Sports Academy
4 overs, 3 wickets, 24 runs vs. Vision Sports Academy (Finals)
Atif’s lethal spells played a pivotal role in Speedster XI’s success, especially in the finals, where his three-wicket haul ensured his team’s dominance.
DM Cricket Academy – A Hub of Future Stars
Both Kshitij and Atif hail from DM Cricket Academy , Miraroad, where they train under the expert mentorship of Coach Durgesh Mahant. The academy has been instrumental in shaping young talent, focusing on technical skills, match temperament, and overall cricketing excellence.
Coach Durgesh Mahant’s dedication and structured training regimen have played a crucial role in developing these young cricketers into match-winners. His commitment to nurturing talent is evident in the performances of Kshitij and Atif, who have now established themselves as players to watch out for in the future.
With such remarkable performances, DM Cricket DM Cricket Academy continues to be a breeding ground for top-tier cricketers, and under the leadership of Coach Mahant, many more stars are set to emerge.
At just 23, Aquib Nabi has emerged as a key pace-bowling prospect for Jammu & Kashmir. The right-arm seamer from Baramulla has impressed with his natural outswing and aggressive approach, making significant contributions to his team’s success. His standout moment came in the Ranji Trophy quarter-final against Karnataka, where he dismissed Karun Nair with just his second delivery of the day, setting the tone for a crucial match.
Early Struggles and the Bengaluru Breakthrough
Growing up in Baramulla, where cricketing infrastructure was limited, Nabi initially gravitated toward football. However, the thrill of fast bowling soon drew him in. His breakthrough came when he moved to Bengaluru and joined Chintamani Club in the KSCA League’s second division. His debut performance was nothing short of remarkable—scoring a century from No. 9 while also claiming a five-wicket haul. This experience exposed him to structured coaching, top-class facilities, and high-level competition, significantly shaping his cricketing journey.
Transition to Fast Bowling and Cricketing Development
Interestingly, Nabi started as a leg-spinner before switching to pace. He realized that leg-spin with a tennis ball lacked impact, and a freak injury—where he was struck on the nose—cemented his decision to focus on fast bowling. His ability to bowl full and generate movement quickly set him apart, allowing him to develop both pace and control.
His career stats reflect his growing impact:
First-Class (2020–): 28 matches, 84 wickets, Economy 3.04, Average 22.5
List A (2018–): 29 matches, 42 wickets, Economy 5.07, Average 28.9
T20 (2019–): 27 matches, 28 wickets, Economy 7.83, Average 26.4
With the bat, he has shown glimpses of being a handy lower-order contributor:
First-Class: 638 runs at an average of 17.7, Strike Rate 49.6
List A: 351 runs at an average of 20.6, Strike Rate 97.5
T20: 99 runs at an average of 9.9, Strike Rate 103.1
Family Support and the Rise of J&K Cricket
Coming from a non-cricketing background, Nabi initially faced pressure to focus on academics. His father, a government school teacher, was skeptical at first but later became one of his biggest supporters after witnessing his dedication. Now, his family closely follows his progress, celebrating his achievements at the domestic level.
Nabi credits J&K’s cricketing transformation to coach Milap Mewada and mentor Irfan Pathan. Their focus on skill-based training and mental resilience has helped unify the team, breaking barriers between players from Jammu and Kashmir.
Mumbai has always been a hotbed for cricketing talent, with several academies nurturing young players. However, RK Sports Academy in Kandivali, under the leadership of coach Ravi Tiwari, has carved out a unique identity by focusing not just on skill development but also on behavioral and strength development, making it one of the best academies in the Malad-Kandivali region.
A Holistic Approach to Cricket Coaching
RK Sports Academy stands out for its comprehensive coaching methodology, which is designed to cater especially to beginners. coach Ravi Tiwari, and his team of experienced assistant coaches ensure that students receive well-rounded training that goes beyond just batting and bowling. Their focus on skill refinement, mental discipline, and physical fitness helps young cricketers develop into well-prepared athletes ready to compete at higher levels.
Unlike traditional cricket coaching setups, the academy believes in progressive learning, where students gradually build their game while simultaneously working on their discipline, teamwork, and fitness. This combination of technical expertise and personality development sets RK Sports Academy apart from others in the region.
Encouraging Players Through Competitive Matches
One of the key initiatives at RK Sports Academy is its frequent in-house tournaments and inter-academy matches. These matches are aimed at instilling a competitive spirit in the students and providing them with real match experience. Young cricketers not only sharpen their skills but also gain the confidence needed to perform in school and club-level tournaments. Many students from the academy have already made a mark in such competitions, proving the effectiveness of this approach.
A Unique Concept: Parents’ Cricket League
RK Sports Academy has also introduced a one-of-a-kind initiative—a Cricket League for parents of students. This fun and engaging concept allows parents to experience the thrill of playing the game while fostering a stronger bond between the academy, students, and their families. This initiative has been well received and has created an interactive community of cricket enthusiasts within the academy.
Why RK Sports Academy Stands Out
In a cricket-loving city like Mumbai, several academies focus purely on cricketing techniques, but RK Sports Academy takes a more holistic approach. It is the only academy in the Malad-Kandivali region that incorporates a mix of skill development, strength training, behavioral development, competitive matches, and family engagement.
Coach Ravi Tiwari’s vision is to not just create skilled cricketers but also individuals who understand the ethos of the game and discipline required for long-term success. With a dedicated coaching team, a structured training system, and innovative ideas like the Parents’ League, RK Sports Academy is proving to be a game-changer in grassroots cricket coaching.
Aspiring young cricketers looking for the right balance of structured training and competitive exposure need not look further—RK Sports Academy is the place to be!
The third season of ACC is about to begin, and it’s even bigger than ever! After the successful completion of the previous two editions, the Advocate Cricket Championship is about to commence starting from 19th of February.
The eight teams participating in the tournament are namely:
AAWI Warriors
CMM Challengers
Mavericks
Bar Hitters
BABA Challengers
Legal Eagles
Borivali
AAWI Elites
Cricket Graph got in touch with Advocate Kaustubh Gupte to get more details on the much anticipated Advocates Cricket Championship 2025. Here’s what he has to say, “The previous two editions were focused mainly on Men’s cricket but this year we are expanding towards Women’s Advocate Cricket too in order to reach more masses. This will be a two-day tournament with four overs to be bowled at the powerplay and the option of the other two overs which the teams can use between the overs 10-16 to enhance the experience of the game. Another thing that is special about this year’s event is that the two senior players will be felicitated for their achievement in Advocates Cricket Championship.”
Matches will be played at Oval Maidan, Churchgate on the 19th and 22nd of February. This year, Fast and Up Nutrition, Royal Trading Company, Ankita Enterprises and Saanvi Star Hospitality will be the sponsors hosting the event with Advocate Sanjeev Kadam as the Title Sponsor, Jagdale Foundation as Jersey Sponsor and Advocate Ravi Hirani as Trophy Sponsor.
The advocates that were part of the second edition will feature once again for the third season. Adv. Kaustubh Gupte, Adv Suraj Gupte, Adv. Chinmay Gaonkar, are all set to feature once again for the two-day tournament.
Rohan Nagvekar is a dedicated cricket coach with years of experience in grooming young talent. His journey, from a passionate player to a respected coach, reflects his commitment to developing the next generation of cricketers.
Cricketing Career
Rohan began his cricketing journey at I.E.S. High School (1997-2002), where he played in MCA Summer Camp U14, Kalpesh Koli U16, and Star Sport Trophy U19. He later represented Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar College (2003-2006) and Ratnagiri Maharashtra District (2008-09). His club career spanned 2008-2013 with New Hind Sporting Club, competing in the Kanga League (A Division) for six years.
Coaching Journey
Transitioning into coaching in 2009, Rohan started at New Hind Sporting Club (Matunga) before taking over as Head Coach at Don Bosco High School (2011-2022). He currently coaches at DPY High School (since 2023) and MCA Summer Camp (Goregaon Prabodhan Centre U14, 2023-2024).
RN Cricket Academy – His Own Legacy
In addition to coaching at top schools, Rohan founded RN Cricket Academy in Matunga, where he continues to mentor and train young cricketers. Under his leadership, the academy has won several private tournaments, solidifying its reputation as a top training center.
Coaching Achievements
- New Hind Sporting Club (U12) – Multiple club tournament victories.
- Don Bosco High School
- DSO Championship Winner (U14) – 2014
- DSO Runner-up (U14 & U16) – 2017, 2018
- Harish Shield Runner-up (U16) – 2019 (after 25 years)
- Multiple private school tournament victories.
- RN Cricket Academy – Won several private tournaments.
Personal Achievements
- DSO Championship Winner (2001) – I.E.S. School
- Harish Shield Semi-finalist (1999) – I.E.S. School
- DSO Championship Runner-up (2004) – Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar College
A Mentor Committed to Excellence
Rohan Nagvekar’s coaching philosophy focuses on technical skills, discipline, and mental toughness. His dedication to RN Cricket Academy, school teams, and MCA camps has shaped many young players into competitive cricketers. With his experience and passion, Rohan continues to be a key figure in Mumbai’s cricket coaching fraternity, helping aspiring cricketers achieve their dreams.
Matunga, Mumbai: Raja Shivaji Vidyalaya delivered a commanding performance in the Matunga Gujarati Seva Mandal Tournament, securing a massive victory over Digambar Patkar Vidyalaya at DPC Matunga. Led by an outstanding all-round show from Shlok Galave, Raja Shivaji Vidyalaya registered a comprehensive win after setting a formidable target and dismantling their opponents for a low total.
Batting Brilliance by Shlok Galave and Nikunj Hambhire
After being invited to bat first, , Raja Shivaji Vidyalaya put up an imposing total of 302 runs in 44.2 overs. The innings was powered by a scintillating knock from Shlok Galave, who hammered 133 runs off just 74 balls, laced with 15 fours and 6 sixes. His aggressive approach kept the opposition bowlers under pressure throughout.
Supporting him at the other end, Nikunj Hambhire played a crucial innings, scoring 63 runs off 55 balls, smashing 11 boundaries. Their partnership laid a strong foundation, ensuring Raja Shivaji posted a daunting total.
Vivek Khambe and Shlok Galave Dominate with the Ball
Chasing 303 for victory, Digambar Patkar Vidyalaya crumbled under the pressure, managing just 64 runs before being bowled out. The bowling attack of Raja Shivaji Vidyalaya was led by Vivek Khambe, who produced a sensational spell, taking 5 wickets in 5 overs while conceding just 23 runs.
Adding to his stellar batting performance, Shlok Galave showcased his all-round ability by claiming 3 wickets in 5 overs, giving away only 9 runs, further tightening the noose on the opposition.
Coach Rohan Nagvekar’s Impact
The remarkable performance of Raja Shivaji Vidyalaya is a testament to the guidance of Coach Rohan Nagvekar, who also runs RN Cricket Academy in Matunga. His emphasis on skill development and match awareness has helped nurture talented players, leading to this dominant victory. Under his mentorship, the team displayed exceptional individual performances and strong teamwork, securing a commanding win.
A Statement Victory
With such an emphatic win, Raja Shivaji Vidyalaya has made a strong statement in the tournament, with key players like Shlok Galave, Nikunj Hambhire, and Vivek Khambe proving to be match-winners. Their performance in the upcoming matches will be closely watched as they aim to continue their dominant run.
SASA – a brand which has been around in the sporting industry for more than a decade has become a household name amongst cricketers across India. SASA which has its online presence in the name of sasaeyewear.com has established name for themselves by making the best sports sunglasses worn by International and Domestic Cricketers across the world.
A Proud Indian Brand which has catered to thousands of cricketers across the world. With an aim to expand its portfolio and with a vision to keep serving the best to athletes, SASA has forayed into a new development where they have launched SOL by SASA – India’s Most Premium Invisible Sports Sunscreen.
SOL by SASA is India’s first Zero Chemical Physical Sunscreen which means no color marks or whitecast on your skin. It also boasts of SPF50 which can last upto 7hrs making it the segment leader amongst sports sunscreens. The best part of the sunscreen is the fact that it’s made from Special Grade Zinc Oxide – an ingredient 5 to 7 times more premium than any average regular sunscreens. SOL by SASA is also Paraben and Sulphate free and it’s proudly made in India with an objective that all the sportspersons across the world get the best quality of skincare at right pricing
.
The founder of SASA shared with Cricketgraph: “Cricket has given us everything and it’s our moral responsibility to give cricketers the best products which can help them in excelling in their game. We have launched Sports Sunscreen with lots of R&D, we got it tested from umpires and cricketers at grassroot level before finally making it official. For us quality is paramount, hence we did thorough testing and R&D to ensure customers get the best quality”
CricWiz Cricket Academy, located in Kalyan, is steadily emerging as a hub for budding cricketers, thanks to the dedication and expertise of its head coaches, Prashant Yelwe and Sagar Joshi. With a strong foundation in competitive cricket and years of coaching experience, these two mentors are shaping the next generation of cricketers through structured training and a passion for the game.
Prashant Yelwe – The Experienced Mentor
With over 12 years of experience in cricket coaching, Prashant Yelwe brings a wealth of knowledge to the academy. His playing career saw him represent Evergreen Sports Club and Sunrise Sports Club in B Division cricket, demonstrating his competitive spirit. He also made a mark at the State Level C.K. Nayudu Trophy during his college years, showcasing his talent on a bigger stage. His achievements include winning the Intercollegiate Zonal Tournament (Zone II), reflecting his strong cricketing abilities.
At CricWiz Cricket Academy, Prashant focuses on refining the technical and tactical aspects of the game, ensuring that every player benefits from his vast experience. His coaching philosophy revolves around discipline, match awareness, and continuous improvement, making him a respected figure among young cricketers in Kalyan.
Sagar Joshi – The Certified Coach
Sagar Joshi, an MCA-certified Level O coach, has been actively involved in coaching for over 7 years. His coaching journey includes training U16 players for two years and guiding U19 cricketers for three years, making him well-versed in youth development. Additionally, he has served as an assistant coach for the MCA U16 summer camp, further enhancing his credentials.
Sagar’s structured training methods help players build a solid foundation in cricket. His focus on fitness, technique, and mental strength ensures that young cricketers are well-prepared for competitive matches. His ability to connect with students and simplify complex techniques makes him an invaluable asset to CricWiz Cricket Academy .
A Vision for Cricket Development
Under the guidance of Prashant Yelwe and Sagar Joshi, CricWiz Cricket Academy has built a reputation for offering high chances of playing association and friendly matches, giving players exposure to real-game scenarios. Their commitment to nurturing talent is evident in the academy’s 1:4 coach-to-student ratio, ensuring personalized attention to each cricketer.
With scholarship programs for financially challenged players and a focus on making cricket accessible to all, both Prashant and Sagar are not just coaches but also mentors who are passionate about giving back to the sport. Their academy provides indoor nets, floodlights for night practice, and a competitive environment where young athletes can hone their skills.
As CricWiz Cricket Academy continues to grow, the efforts of Prashant Yelwe and Sagar Joshi are shaping the future of aspiring cricketers in Kalyan. Their expertise, dedication, and love for the game make them true torchbearers of grassroots cricket development.
Mumbai’s cricketing ecosystem has always been a breeding ground for exceptional talent, and NL Vision Cricket Academy, Dahisar, is proving to be one of the premier hubs for young cricketers. Under the expert guidance of coach Ninad Kadam, the academy has been consistently producing quality players, with Advait Bhat emerging as one of its brightest prospects.
Advait has established himself as the top bowler in the Payyade Trophy,, claiming 15 wickets in just three matches. His outstanding performance in the Vijay Merchant Trophy further enhanced his reputation, as he finished among the top 10 bowlers in the tournament— the only player from Mumbai to achieve this distinction. Over six matches, he took an impressive 28 wickets, showcasing both consistency and match-winning abilities.
A Standout Performance in the Vijay Merchant Trophy
Advait Bhat’s performances in the Vijay Merchant Trophy have been nothing short of spectacular. The young bowler from Mumbai finished among the top 10 wicket-takers in the tournament, making him the only bowler from Mumbai to achieve this feat. Over the course of six matches, he picked up 28 wickets, showcasing his ability to lead the bowling attack with precision and consistency.
His most remarkable spell came in the match against Andhra Pradesh, where he delivered a match-winning performance. He took 8 wickets in total—1 in the first innings and a stunning 7-wicket haul in the second innings, dismantling the opposition and helping Mumbai secure a crucial victory. This dominant display highlighted his skill, temperament, and ability to perform under pressure.
Advait’s impressive Vijay Merchant Trophy campaign follows his stellar performances for Payyade Sports Club, where he had already made an impact with 15 wickets in just three matches. His consistency across different competitions proves that he is a rising star in Mumbai’s cricketing circuit.
Located in Dahisar, NL Vision Cricket Academy has steadily built a reputation for nurturing young talent and shaping them into professional cricketers. Under the leadership of coach coach Ninad Kadam, the academy focuses on technical skills, fitness, and mental strength, ensuring that players like Advait Bhat are well-prepared for high-level cricket.