Nestled in the scenic hills of Dehradun, ProEdge High Performance Centre is making waves in the world of elite cricket training in India. Founded by experienced cricketer and coach Aakash Choudhary, ProEdge is committed to developing young athletes into skilled, well-rounded cricketers who can compete at the highest levels. Choudhary, an ICC Level 1 batting coach with a solid background in sports psychology and sports management, has dedicated his center to an athlete-focused training approach. He brings years of experience playing cricket in India and New Zealand, along with expertise in sports science and coaching.
ProEdge offers a specialized training environment that prepares athletes, especially those aged 16-25, to excel both in India and internationally. With experience coaching over 150 professional cricketers, some of whom have represented their states and even countries, Choudhary has built ProEdge on the principles of mentorship and personalized training. Inspired by his time learning from renowned coach Toby Radford in Cardiff, Choudhary focuses on understanding each athlete’s unique needs and providing individualized guidance. His goal is not only to train cricketers but to mentor them in every aspect of life.
One of Choudhary’s key insights is that athletes in India face unique challenges. The intense competition, cultural factors, and logistical obstacles in India can make it difficult for young players to fully focus on their training. By building trust with his athletes, Choudhary encourages open communication, helping players address both personal and professional issues that might affect their performance.
ProEdge is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support players’ development. Athletes can stay on-site in comfortable lodging and enjoy nutritious, athlete-focused meals. The center includes a high-tech gym and strength-training facility, a video analysis room, and two turf pitches, with plans for an indoor facility. Additionally, ProEdge provides bowling machines and Robo Arms to help players work on precision and reaction speed.
ProEdge has also become a destination for international players through a partnership with Alien Sports Management. Aakash regularly organizes training tours for players from countries like New Zealand, giving them an opportunity to experience Indian conditions and train under his guidance. Even after they return home, Aakash continues to mentor some players remotely, ensuring they stay on track throughout their seasons.
With a focus on high standards, Choudhary and ProEdge are paving the way for young athletes to achieve success in professional cricket. Through technical, physical, and mental conditioning, ProEdge High Performance Centre is building a bridge between domestic talent and global cricket standards, one player at a time.
In a thrilling display of talent and leadership, captain Swapnil Kulaye led Rajasthan Sports Club to victory in the Kanga League E Division, securing their promotion to the D Division. Kulaye, who took an impressive 7 wickets across both innings, bowled 18 overs with figures of 55 runs for 7 wickets, guiding his team to victory over Rizvi Sports Club at Sassanian Azad Maidan. His superb performance, including a 6-wicket haul in the first innings and an additional wicket in the second, was instrumental in Rajasthan’s triumph.
Under Kulaye’s captaincy, the team demonstrated an outstanding all-round performance. Rajasthan’s batsmen also made significant contributions, with Pradnesh Lad scoring 39, Akash Malbari adding 26, Yuvraj Mali contributing 23, and Ravi Shinde scoring a crucial 44. These key scores helped Rajasthan build a strong total that gave them a commanding edge over Rizvi Sports Club.
Rajasthan Sports Club, owned by Ashish Shelar, a well-known MLA, treasurer, and former president of the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), has a strong foundation. With Shelar’s leadership and support, the club has continued to grow and compete at a high level. Sanjay Nikam, who serves as the club’s mentor, has also played a vital role in guiding and motivating the players, ensuring they reach their potential on the field.
This title win is a significant achievement for Rajasthan Sports Club, as it marks their promotion to the D Division, where they will face tougher competition in the coming season. Captain Swapnil Kulaye’s strong performance and leadership, supported by the dedicated efforts of his teammates, were essential to their success in the league. Kulaye’s skills as both a player and captain have set a promising standard for Rajasthan’s future matches.
Rajasthan Sports Club’s victory highlights the collective effort and guidance that drive the club. With strong backing from Ashish Shelar and mentorship from Sanjay Nikam, the team is well-prepared to take on the challenges of the D Division.
In a thrilling display of young talent, Arham Jain scored a powerful 128 runs in just 72 balls to help V.K. Menon Academy secure a win over Ryan International Kandivali in the Harris Shield Tournament. With his exceptional knock, which included 3 sixes 17 fours, Jain was the standout performer in a match where V.K. Menon Academy put up a commanding total of 460/7. His innings set the tone for the game, showcasing his explosive skills and leaving the crowd in awe.
Opening the batting with caution, Jain soon picked up the pace, blasting boundaries all around the ground. As he settled into his innings, he displayed a mix of elegant drives, sharp cuts, and flicks that repeatedly pierced the gaps. His precise shot placement and quick footwork kept the scoreboard ticking rapidly. Despite his aggressive approach, Jain batted with composure, rotating the strike and maintaining pressure on Ryan International’s bowlers.
Jain’s score of 128 was the highest of the match, but he wasn’t the only player from V.K. Menon Academy to impress. Gandharva Bhike also played a vital role, scoring an unbeaten 102. Bhike’s composed century added stability to the innings, balancing Jain’s rapid scoring with a steady hand. Together, they provided a solid foundation for V.K. Menon Academy, propelling the team to an impressive total of 460/7.
Facing a daunting target, Ryan International Kandivali struggled to keep up with the required run rate, with the pressure from the massive total weighing heavily on their chase. Ultimately, V.K. Menon Academy emerged victorious, thanks largely to the combined efforts of Jain and Bhike.
This match will surely be remembered for the outstanding batting performances, particularly Jain’s 128 off 68 balls, which electrified the game and highlighted his potential as a rising star in youth cricket. His powerful performance and Bhike’s consistent partnership secured V.K. Menon Academy’s win and have put both young players on the radar as talents to watch in the future.
Young cricket sensation Arham Jain continued his excellent form in the Harris Shield Tournament, following up his 128-run performance with another remarkable century. In his second match, playing for V.K. Menon Academy, Jain scored 100 off just 68 balls, hitting 17 boundaries in an impressive innings against Vidya Vikasini English High School, Vasai.
Jain’s aggressive approach was evident from the start, as he capitalized on every scoring opportunity. His precise placement and powerful strokes allowed him to dominate the bowlers once again, just as he had in his first match against Ryan International Kandivali, where he scored a blistering 128. This latest century solidifies his position as one of the tournament’s top performers, leaving fans and coaches eager to see more from this emerging talent.
On the final day and final match of the Kanga League, Maskati faced off against Dahisar Sports Club in a nail-biting thriller that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Winning the toss, Maskati opted to bowl first, a decision that initially appeared questionable as Dahisar Sports Club got off to an exceptional start. Despite losing a wicket early, the partnership between Rushil Parkar and Aakash Mangade blossomed into a remarkable 190-run stand. Dahisar ultimately declared their innings at a formidable 212 for 5 after 47 overs.
Dahisar Sports Club believed that a total of 212 would be sufficient to secure a comfortable first innings lead. However, Maskati had different plans. Openers Sarth Waghela and the explosive Saqib Mulani forged an unbelievable 188-run partnership, combining aggressive batting with strategic defense to navigate the chase. Saqib Mulani emerged as the standout batsman, showcasing his aggression and skill. He scored a masterful century, making 121 runs off just 100 balls, including 12 exquisite fours and 4 powerful sixes.
His opening partner, Sarth Waghela, contributed significantly as well, scoring a solid 83 runs with 11 boundaries and a six.
Just when it seemed Maskati was cruising towards victory, the match took a dramatic turn. They lost two crucial wickets, including that of Sarth Waghela, and their captain fell for a duck, leaving the team in a precarious position. With 18 runs required from just 12 balls, Saqib hit a six, propelling Maskati to 13 runs in that over. As the final over approached, Maskati needed 6 runs to take the lead and secure three crucial points. In a tense moment, with 2 runs required from 2 balls, Saqib was caught out, leaving the new batsman at the crease to face the pressure.
Now, the equation was 2 runs required from just 1 ball. Maskati’s seasoned batsman, Pratik Manjrekar, stepped up to the challenge and delivered under pressure, striking the ball for a four. This pivotal hit not only secured the first innings lead for Maskati but also clinched the vital 3 points they had been striving for throughout the tournament.
The players delivered an exceptionally thrilling performance, defying expectations and shocking Dahisar Sports Club with their resilience and determination. The tenacity displayed by the Maskati team was nothing short of remarkable, highlighting their growth and competitive spirit in this season of the Kanga League. As the tournament concludes, Maskati’s incredible journey will undoubtedly be remembered as a testament to their hard work and talent.
In a remarkable season of the Kanga League, Shivaji Park Youngsters Sports Club have triumphed as the champions of the B Division, earning promotion to the A Division. Under the leadership of Salil Agarkar and Nikhil Patil, the team achieved an extraordinary feat, having been promoted to B Division just a year prior. Not only did they clinch the B Division title, but they also secured their place in the A Division—a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Throughout the entire season, the Youngsters remained undefeated, and in the final match of the Kanga League, they secured a crucial first innings lead to earn three vital points, thereby becoming the B Division champions.
A standout performer for the Youngsters was left-arm spinner Kunal Thorat, who emerged as the highest wicket-taker in the division. Time and again, he provided vital breakthroughs for the team, leading the bowling attack with confidence and skill. It is safe to say that Kunal Thorat’s stellar performance was instrumental in driving the Youngsters to this championship victory.
Reflecting on the final match of the league, Regal Cricket Club won the toss and chose to invite the Youngsters to bat first. The Youngsters posted a total of 140 runs before being bowled out. Akshay Ambike of Regal made a significant impact, claiming five wickets. In response, Regal’s batting lineup crumbled, managing to score only 61 runs before being bowled out. Kunal Thorat shone once again, taking an impressive seven wickets for just 18 runs in his seven overs. Following this performance, the Youngsters secured the first innings lead, leading to a match that concluded in a draw.
Shivaji Park Youngsters finished the season with 12 points from five matches, having drawn all their games—four of which were on first innings leads—demonstrating their resilience and competitive spirit. Having been promoted just a year ago, the team has rebuilt itself remarkably and has competed at a high level with great success. The dedication shown by the players throughout the season is nothing short of brilliant. Their commitment, from rigorous off-season practice to their performances in matches, has been a spectacle to behold. Another key contributor to this success has been Salil Agarkar, who excelled in the initial matches and played a pivotal role in the team’s achievements. One should also thank the people who made it possible, the support staff as well as team manager Wahid Shaikh who supported the team throughout the tournament.
The extraordinary journey of Shivaji Park Youngsters is one that everyone can take pride in and be inspired by. We look forward to seeing them bring the same intensity and determination to the A Division next year.
Kunal Thorat has been instrumental in leading the Shivaji Park Youngsters toward a coveted promotion from the B Division to the A Division. In a crucial encounter against New Hindu Sports Club, Kunal’s exceptional bowling performance helped the Youngsters secure a vital first-innings lead, earning them three valuable points. Following this match, Shivaji Park Youngsters now have nine points from four matches, placing them second in the B Division league table.
During the match, New Hindu won the toss and elected to bat first. However, their innings quickly stumbled thanks to the early breakthroughs by Vasudev Gharat, who claimed two wickets. Kunal Thorat, along with Sanket Yashwante, unleashed a bowling display that kept New Hindu’s batsmen under relentless pressure, resulting in their collapse to just 104 runs. Kunal shone brightly with an impressive four wickets, while Sanket backed him up with three crucial scalps.
Batting second, it was imperative for the Youngsters to establish a first-innings lead to strengthen their promotion aspirations. The team rose to the occasion, with nearly every player contributing to their score of 106 for 5 in just 27 overs. After this solid performance, they declared, eager to bowl out New Hindu once more. Thanks to their commanding first-innings lead, the Youngsters secured three crucial points by the end of the match.
This season has been nothing short of memorable for the Shivaji Park Youngsters, as they find themselves just one match away from promotion to the A Division. This success is a direct result of the remarkable teamwork displayed by the entire squad. Yet, one player stands out above the rest: Kunal Thorat. As a left-arm spin bowler, Kunal has been a revelation for the Youngsters this season. He currently holds the title of the highest wicket-taker in the Kanga League for the 2024-25 season within the B Division, having claimed an astounding 20 wickets in just four matches.
Kunal’s performances have not only been consistent but truly remarkable, transforming the season into one worth remembering for the Youngsters. His ability to turn matches around with his bowling has made him the go-to bowler for the team. Each time he takes the field, he demonstrates an impressive mix of skill, strategy, and determination, always rising to the occasion whenever his captain calls upon him.
As they approach their final match, the expectations for Shivaji Park Youngsters are sky-high. With Kunal Thorat leading the charge, the team is poised to seize the opportunity and secure the promotion they so richly deserve. Kunal’s extraordinary contributions will be remembered as a pivotal part of this remarkable season, and all eyes are on the Youngsters as they aim for A Division glory.
In an enthralling encounter, Matunga Gymkhana squared off against Worli Sports Club in a Kanga League D Division match that showcased remarkable talent and determination. The contest, held on a vibrant Mumbai afternoon, ultimately ended in a draw, but Matunga Gymkhana secured vital points by taking the first innings lead.
Worli Sports Club won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision that would soon be scrutinized. Matunga Gymkhana took full advantage of the conditions, crafting a stunning innings that would be remembered for its explosive flair. They posted an impressive total of 213 runs for just 2 wickets before declaring, with an additional 44 penalty runs pushing their total to a noteworthy 255 runs in just 31 overs.
The standout performer was undoubtedly Bipin Waghela, the left-handed batsman whose record-breaking display left spectators in awe. Waghela set a new benchmark in Kanga League history by scoring the fastest fifty, reaching this milestone in a mere 20 balls. His final tally of 79 not out came from just 42 balls and included an astonishing nine sixes. Each of his powerful strikes resonated around the ground, creating an electrifying atmosphere as he dominated the Worli bowlers.
Ihsaan Amin also made significant contributions with a well-crafted innings of 86 not out off 87 balls. His composed batting style, combined with Waghela’s fireworks, created a formidable partnership that dismantled the opposition’s bowling attack and set an imposing target.
When it was time for Worli Sports Club to chase, they found themselves under pressure, struggling at 140 runs. Matunga Gymkhana’s bowlers, led by the exceptional Yogesh Dicholkar, turned the screws on the batting side. Dicholkar’s impressive spell of 5 wickets for just 33 runs in 11 overs proved crucial. His skillful bowling not only claimed key wickets but also stifled any momentum that Worli hoped to build.
In summary, while the match concluded in a draw, Matunga Gymkhana’s performance was characterized by outstanding individual contributions and a display of collective strength. Bipin Waghela’s record-breaking innings, Ihsaan Amin’s solid batting, and Yogesh Dicholkar’s exemplary bowling were the defining moments of the match. With their first innings lead, Matunga Gymkhana secured three vital points in the league, enhancing their prospects for the season ahead. As fans eagerly anticipate future matches, Matunga Gymkhana’s prowess on the field ensures that they will remain a team to watch in the Kanga League.
Anand Rajan has been appointed as the head coach of Pondicherry’s Ranji team for the 2024-25 season, marking an exciting new chapter in his coaching career. A stalwart of Indian domestic cricket, Rajan spent ten years representing Madhya Pradesh, showcasing his skills as a fast bowler. His impressive performances in the Ranji Trophy and the Indian Premier League (IPL) earned him recognition, playing for teams like Sunrisers Hyderabad and Deccan Chargers. After transitioning from player to coach, he has made a significant impact in nurturing young talent across various levels.
Rajan’s coaching journey has been marked by notable achievements and valuable mentorship roles. He recently served as the coach for the India Under-19 team during the 2024 World Cup, where he mentored Saumy Pandey, who emerged as the highest wicket-taker in the tournament. His experience as an assistant coach for the Uttarakhand Ranji team in the 2023-24 season further solidified his reputation, guiding Gaurav Yadav to become the highest wicket-taker with 41 wickets under his guidance.
In the previous season, as the bowling coach for Uttarakhand, Rajan played a key role in leading the team to the quarter-finals of the Ranji Trophy. His coaching experience also extends to the Punjab Cricket Association, where he coached the India Under-16 team. Notably, he personally coached Adhiraj Mangat, who became the highest wicket-taker for Punjab in the Vijay Merchant Trophy.
Rajan’s credentials as a coach are impressive. He is a certified coach from the MRF Pace Foundation, having trained under cricket legends Glenn McGrath and Dennis Lillee. He also holds a BCCI Level 2 qualification, which he achieved in December 2022. His commitment to the development of budding players is evident through his spearheading of mentorship programs aimed at providing guidance and support.
Beyond his coaching roles, Rajan has worked with a number of prominent cricketers, devising tailored strategies that address the unique needs of each player. His mentorship has included guidance for talents like Venkatesh Iyer, Avesh Khan, Rajat Patidar, and Kuldeep Sen, among others.
Rajan’s impact is not only evident in the numbers but also in the respect he commands from his peers and players. His coaching style is built on encouragement and support, fostering a positive environment that resonates well with young athletes. Many players from various states seek him out for skill development, further underlining his reputation as a mentor.
One of his notable successes was as a player, where he was recognized as the Man of the Match in his first IPL game against the Mumbai Indians, claiming the wickets of legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Kieron Pollard. His impressive record includes significant contributions to the India Under-19 team, where he was the highest wicket-taker during the England series in 2005.
As he embarks on his role as the head coach of the Pondicherry Ranji team, Anand Rajan brings a wealth of experience and passion for the game. His dedication to nurturing talent and fostering a positive cricketing environment will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of cricketers in Pondicherry. With his proven track record and unwavering commitment, Rajan is set to leave a lasting impact on cricket in the region.
Rahul Ramugade is an athlete from Mumbai. He plays wheelchair cricket and has overcome many challenges. Polio affected his legs, but his love for cricket never faded. In India, cricket is a passion for many. As a child, Rahul didn’t let his disability stop him. He played cricket on a skateboard. Today, he is a member of the Indian Wheelchair Cricket Team. Since 2017, he has also captained the Mumbai Wheelchair Cricket Team.
A Versatile Athlete
Rahul is not just a cricketer. He is also a successful para-swimmer. He began swimming at a school for physically challenged children. Although the pools were not accessible, and financial support was lacking, Rahul continued to practice. He has competed in para-swimming events since 2015. His hard work earned him 8 Gold, 2 Silver, and 5 Bronze medals.
An Adventurer at Heart
Rahul has a passion for adventure sports. Traveling in India can be hard for people with disabilities due to limited accessibility. To maintain his independence, Rahul drives a hand-controlled car. He has driven over 80,000 kilometers so far. Every day, he also uses a skateboard to get around.
Rahul enjoys participating in marathons. In 2017-18, he completed a 5 km marathon in Mumbai in 50 minutes. He also finished a 6 km marathon in Pune in 45 minutes, both using his wheelchair. Besides marathons, Rahul plays wheelchair tennis and badminton. He has tried wall climbing in Mumbai and para-motoring in Chandigarh. Additionally, he went scuba diving in the Andaman Islands. Recently, Rahul completed scuba diving training with instructors from the Indian Armed Forces in Pondicherry. His next goal is skydiving.
Founder of Wheelchair Sports Association Mumbai
In March 2020, Rahul and his friends started the Wheelchair Sports Association Mumbai. Their goal is to raise awareness and support for wheelchair sports. The association helps athletes with disabilities by providing facilities, equipment, and travel support. Members compete in various sports, such as wheelchair cricket, basketball, handball, racing, tennis, badminton, para powerlifting, and para swimming.
Although the association lacks government support, it thrives on donations. It receives funds from individuals, NGOs, and corporate sponsors. The association is registered under the Societies Act of 1860 in Mumbai. Donations to the association are tax-exempt under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act. It is also registered with the Ministry of Corporate Affairs for CSR projects.
Media Recognition
Rahul’s journey has received widespread media attention. He has been interviewed by Doordarshan Sahyadri Channel and leading Marathi news channels like ABP Maza and Zee 24 Taas. In these interviews, Rahul shared his experiences in swimming and cricket. His story has inspired many people and encouraged disabled youth across Maharashtra.
Rahul’s achievements have been featured in several Marathi newspapers, such as Maharashtra Times, Lokmat, and Pudhari. Disha Magazine, a popular Zee Group publication, has also covered his story. Additionally, the Times Group’s Indiatimes website highlighted his accomplishments. Rahul has been interviewed on All India Radio and featured on the Mumbai Indians YouTube channel.
Recently, Rahul launched his own YouTube channel called “Rahul On Wheels.” On this platform, he promotes wheelchair accessibility, disability awareness, and inclusion.
Rahul’s Message
“As a person with disabilities, we don’t need sympathy. We need inclusion and equal opportunities. With hard work and talent, we can achieve anything.”