Sarfaraz Khan to Miss Mumbai's Ranji Trophy Opener Due to NCA Camp

Sarfaraz Khan to Miss Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy Opener Due to NCA Camp

Prolific Mumbai batter Sarfaraz Khan will miss the team’s Ranji Trophy opener against Baroda due to his inclusion in the National Cricket Academy (NCA) camp. The 25-year-old played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s Irani Cup triumph last week, scoring an unbeaten 222.

Khan’s absence is a significant blow to Mumbai, who are the defending Ranji Trophy champions. The team will face Baroda in an away fixture from October 11 and Maharashtra at home from October 18. The latter match coincides with the India-New Zealand first Test in Bengaluru from October 16.

Despite his absence, Khan is expected to retain his place in the India squad. The Mumbai selectors have picked a strong squad for the first two matches, led by Ajinkya Rahane. Other notable players include Prithvi Shaw, Shreyas Iyer, and Shams Mulani.

Shami's Comeback Hopes Dented by Knee Injury

Shami’s Comeback Hopes Dented by Knee Injury

Mohammed Shami’s Comeback Hopes Dented by Knee Injury

Team India’s hopes of a swift return for premier pacer Mohammed Shami have been dealt a blow as he has developed “swollen knees” during rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). The injury could sideline Shami for an additional six to eight weeks, jeopardizing his availability for the upcoming five-Test series in Australia.

Shami has been undergoing rehab at the NCA since February after undergoing Achilles tendon surgery. He was expected to join the Bengal Ranji Trophy team and participate in the first-class tournament starting October 11. However, the knee injury has flared up, casting doubt on his immediate return.

“Shami had resumed bowling and was on track to make a comeback soon. But this knee injury has flared up recently. The BCCI’s medical team is assessing the injury, but it may require significant time,” said a BCCI source.

Shami’s last competitive appearance was in the ODI World Cup final against Australia in November 2023. He was selected for India’s two-Test tour of South Africa in December 2023, subject to fitness. However, he was ruled out after the BCCI medical team withheld clearance.

The injury is a setback for the NCA medical team, which has been working with Shami for over a year. The team has implemented a comprehensive workload management system, but the knee injury has emerged as an unexpected hurdle.

The Indian team management has been cautious about the workload of its premier fast bowlers, including Shami and Jasprit Bumrah. They were expected to lead the attack in Australia, but neither has played five consecutive Test matches recently.

The selectors will face a dilemma when selecting the squad for the three-Test home series against New Zealand starting October 16. They will hope that Shami recovers in time for the Australia tour, but his availability remains uncertain.

VVS Laxman's Vision for the NCA: Nurturing Talent, Managing Injuries, and Building a Bench Strength

VVS Laxman’s Vision for the NCA: Nurturing Talent, Managing Injuries, and Building a Bench Strength

VVS Laxman, the former Indian batting maestro, has been instrumental in transforming the National Cricket Academy (NCA) into a hub for nurturing young talent and developing a robust bench strength for Indian cricket. Since taking over as the head of the NCA in December 2021, Laxman has implemented a holistic approach that emphasizes youth development, education, and coaching.

Laxman’s vision for the NCA is to create a comprehensive ecosystem that supports players at all levels, from emerging talents to established international stars. He believes that by providing the right environment and resources, the NCA can help players reach their full potential and contribute to India’s continued success on the global stage.

One of the key areas of focus for Laxman is injury management. He recognizes that injuries can derail even the most promising careers, and he has implemented a proactive approach to prevent and rehabilitate injuries. The NCA has a dedicated team of medical experts who work closely with players to monitor their fitness and provide personalized recovery plans.

Laxman also emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between domestic and international cricket. He believes that players need to be exposed to high-level competition to develop their skills and prepare for the rigors of international cricket. The NCA organizes regular camps and tournaments for emerging players, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talent and learn from experienced coaches.

Laxman’s efforts have already borne fruit. Several players who have come through the NCA system have gone on to represent India at the international level, including Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Ishan Kishan. The NCA has also played a crucial role in the rehabilitation of injured players, helping them return to the field stronger and more resilient.

Laxman’s leadership has transformed the NCA into a center of excellence that is committed to developing the next generation of Indian cricket stars. His holistic approach, emphasis on injury management, and focus on bridging the gap between domestic and international cricket are laying the foundation for a bright future for Indian cricket.

BCCI Unveils State-of-the-Art National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru

BCCI Unveils State-of-the-Art National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled its state-of-the-art National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru, now known as the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE). This world-class facility spans over 40 acres and boasts an array of amenities designed to revolutionize sports training and development in India.

The BCCI CoE features three world-class grounds with 86 pitches, including indoor and outdoor areas. Ground A, the main ground, has an 85-yard boundary and 13 Mumbai red soil pitches, while Grounds B and C serve as dedicated practice grounds with 75-yard boundaries and a variety of soil types. An innovative subsurface drainage system ensures quick recovery after rainfall, minimizing disruptions.

The outdoor practice facility includes 45 net pitches organized into nine clusters, providing a range of surfaces for practice. Adjacent to the nets is a dedicated fielding practice area and six outdoor running tracks with natural grass and Mondo synthetic surfaces.

The indoor practice facility features eight pitches with premium turfs from the UK and Australia, alongside an 80-meter common run-up area. Large, toughened glass panels allow for natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere. Integrated cameras capture play for analytical purposes, enabling athletes to train regardless of weather or time.

The South Pavilion houses one of the largest dressing rooms at nearly 3,000 square feet, complete with a jacuzzi, lounge, massage room, kit room, and restrooms. The Sports Science & Medicine (SSM) Block encompasses a 16,000 square-foot gym with best-in-class equipment, a physiotherapy rehab gym, and a sports science and medicine lab with the latest technology.

The SSM facility also includes a recovery area with jacuzzi, sauna, steam bath, underwater pool spa, and cold shower area. An 80-seater meeting room, coaches’ area, and a 25×12-meter swimming pool are also part of this facility. Dedicated audio-visual and projector facilities support training sessions, presentations, and fitness classes.

The state-of-the-art Sports Science & Medicine facility will be open to leading Indian Olympians, contributing to the overall growth of the Indian sports ecosystem. The facility will house a carefully curated Hall of Fame showcasing India’s cricketing legacy.

Additional features include commentator and match referee rooms with cutting-edge broadcasting facilities, a spacious press conference area, VIP lounge and dining area, and administrative offices. The Dining and Dormitory block offers food and lodging for staff, including male and female dormitories with a provision for future expansion.

The BCCI CoE is the brainchild of Secretary Jay Shah and aims to revolutionize sports training and development in India. Its world-class facilities and commitment to fostering the next generation of athletes will elevate the country’s status in the global sports arena.

Mayank Yadav Included in NCA Camp, Could Travel with India for NZ Tests

Mayank Yadav Included in NCA Camp, Could Travel with India for NZ Tests

The national selectors have included promising pacer Mayank Yadav in a special camp at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) ahead of the T20I series against Bangladesh starting October 6. The camp is limited to a few players, including Hardik Pandya, Riyan Parag, and Abhishek Sharma.

Mayank, a 21-year-old from Delhi, has been at the NCA since the IPL due to a recurring side strain. He burst onto the scene in the last IPL, clocking over 156 kmph in his first two matches. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, has identified him as a future prospect in their quest to build a strong pool of pace bowlers.

“Mayank hasn’t complained of any pain over the last month or so. He is bowling full tilt at the NCA. The selectors are interested to see how ready he is for international cricket. With the long Test season ahead, the selectors are keen on trying new faces for the T20Is against Bangladesh. Pandya has not played competitive cricket for nearly a couple of months. Even Abhishek needs some quality practice,” a BCCI source said.

The selectors are expected to rest Test specialists for the T20I series, opening up an opportunity to try out new players, keeping the T20 World Cup in 2026 in mind.

The NCA team has charted a roadmap for Mayank’s comeback. For now, he has been asked to start with T20 cricket. He hasn’t been cleared to play Ranji Trophy for Delhi yet.

“Mayank is bowling close to 20 overs with the white ball in three separate spells in a day. There is a strong chance of selectors picking him for the Bangladesh series after seeing him in the camp at NCA. Agarkar is slated to travel to Bengaluru to attend the inauguration of the new NCA,” the source said.

While Mayank is yet to receive a clearance for Ranji Trophy, it is understood that selectors may ask him to travel with the Indian team during the three-Test series against New Zealand at home next month.

“The selectors don’t want him to be restricted to just the T20 format. Therefore, they want to carefully monitor his progress. India head coach Gautam Gambhir and bowling coach Morne Morkel rate Mayank highly since their time at Lucknow Super Giants,” he said.

With Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj set to be rested for the T20I series, Arshdeep Singh is likely to lead the attack. The likes of Avesh Khan, Khaleel Ahmed, Mukesh Kumar, and Harshit Rana are also in the mix.

Yash Dhull Returns to Cricket After Heart Surgery

Yash Dhull Returns to Cricket After Heart Surgery

Yash Dhull, the former captain of India’s U-19 team, is making a cautious return to the field after undergoing heart surgery earlier this year. The 21-year-old cricketer had a congenital heart condition that required surgical intervention, which was promptly addressed after being discovered during a routine check-up at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.

During the NCA check-up, the medical team detected a congenital condition – a hole in Dhull’s heart. The NCA’s medical team advised immediate surgery, which Dhull underwent in Delhi. According to a News18 report, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ensured he received the best possible care and monitored his recovery closely.

“During the NCA check-up, the team, after consulting with a set of doctors, advised him to undergo surgery for the hole in his heart,” said Pradeep Kochar, Dhull’s childhood coach. “He was attending a camp with the rest of the emerging players a couple of months back in Bengaluru. The surgery went well, and Yash has been on a steady path to recovery.”

Dhull’s father, Vijay, explained that the condition was congenital and the surgery was necessary for his son’s long-term health and cricket career. “It wasn’t anything serious. The hole in the heart was a condition from birth, and the NCA team advised a minor surgical procedure. He underwent that in Delhi, and the BCCI continued to keep a check on him during the period,” said Vijay.

Since receiving a fitness certificate from the NCA, Dhull has been gradually rejoining competitive cricket. He has been playing in the Delhi Premier League (DPL), but his performances have been subdued, reflecting his ongoing recovery process.

“Certain things have happened in the past, and I have returned after a recovery. It’s taking time, but I am positive and will give 100 percent for my game,” Dhull said after a recent DPL match.

Despite the slow start, Dhull’s determination has impressed both his coaches and teammates. “The NCA has given him the certificate of fitness, so there shouldn’t be an issue in any of the formats going forward. Even going forward, there shouldn’t be any problem for him to play the Ranji Trophy and the longer formats,” Kochar asserted, expressing confidence in Dhull’s ability to bounce back fully.

Dhull’s journey back to the cricket field after heart surgery has highlighted his courage and dedication. As he continues to work on his fitness and form, the cricketing fraternity remains hopeful that he will soon return to his best, fulfilling the immense potential he has shown at a young age.

Shami's Border-Gavaskar Trophy Participation Hinges on Fitness Assessment

Shami’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy Participation Hinges on Fitness Assessment

Mohammed Shami’s participation in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia remains uncertain, pending a final fitness assessment from the National Cricket Academy (NCA). The Indian pacer has been recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the ODI World Cup last November and is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the NCA in Bengaluru.

Shami’s recovery has progressed well, with the pacer resuming bowling last month. He has gradually increased his workload and has reported no pain, indicating a potential return to competitive cricket. However, the BCCI secretary, Jay Shah, has emphasized that Shami’s participation in the Australia series will be contingent on his fitness, as determined by the NCA report.

Shami’s importance to the Indian team, particularly in Australian conditions, cannot be overstated. In eight Tests down under, he has claimed 31 wickets at an average of 32.16, including two five-wicket hauls. His ability to exploit the Australian pitches makes him a crucial asset for India’s hopes of reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on foreign soil.

In addition to Shami’s fitness update, Shah also confirmed that VVS Laxman will continue as the head of the NCA. Laxman, who took over the role in December 2021, has played a significant role in overseeing the rehabilitation of players like Shami. His current contract expires in September, but he will remain in charge, ensuring continuity at the academy during this crucial period.

Mayank Yadav's Rehab and India Squad Prospects Uncertain

Mayank Yadav’s Rehab and India Squad Prospects Uncertain

Mayank Yadav, India’s promising right-arm pacer, is diligently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru. His exceptional pace has garnered attention since his impressive performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, despite playing only four matches.

During his brief IPL stint, Yadav showcased his raw talent, claiming seven wickets at an economical rate of 6.99. His blistering pace consistently exceeded 150 kmph, with his fastest delivery clocking in at an astonishing 156.7 kmph.

However, Yadav’s promising run was cut short by an injury, prompting questions about his potential inclusion in the Indian squad. Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Jay Shah acknowledged Yadav’s talent but remained non-committal about his immediate selection.

“I cannot give you any answer on Mayank Yadav as there is no guarantee whether he will be in the team or not. But he is potentially a good fast bowler, and we are looking after him. He is currently in the NCA,” Shah told Times of India.

Yadav’s IPL debut for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in 2023 was equally impressive, but an injury forced him to withdraw after just four games. Despite being acquired by LSG for a base price of Rs 20 lakh in the 2022 auction, he was replaced by Arpit Guleria due to an injury.

Throughout his T20 career, Yadav has amassed 19 wickets in 14 matches, while in List A cricket, he has claimed 34 wickets in 17 matches. He represents Delhi in the domestic circuit.

In April 2024, Yadav etched his name in the IPL record books by delivering the fastest ball of the tournament. His blistering delivery propelled Lucknow Super Giants to a resounding victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Yadav’s rehabilitation at the NCA is a testament to his determination to overcome injuries and fulfill his potential. With his raw pace and impressive track record, he remains a promising prospect for the Indian cricket team.

VVS Laxman Extends NCA Tenure Amidst New Campus Inauguration

VVS Laxman Extends NCA Tenure Amidst New Campus Inauguration

VVS Laxman, the legendary Indian batter, has extended his tenure as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for at least another year. His initial three-year contract was set to expire in September 2023.

Laxman’s decision to extend his NCA role comes amidst interest from an IPL franchise for a head coach position. However, this opportunity is now unavailable due to his ongoing NCA commitments. He will continue to be supported by his team of experienced coaches, including Shitanshu Kotak, Sairaj Bahutule, and Hrishikesh Kanitkar.

The extension of Laxman’s contract coincides with the impending inauguration of the NCA’s new state-of-the-art campus on the outskirts of Bengaluru. The foundation for this facility was laid in January 2022, 14 years after the Karnataka government sanctioned the land on a 99-year lease.

The new NCA campus is expected to be operational from early next year and will boast an impressive array of amenities. It will feature at least 100 pitches, indoor facilities with 45 pitches, three international-sized grounds, a modern rehab center, lodging facilities, and Olympic-sized pools.

During his first three-year term at the NCA, Laxman has continued the initiatives implemented by his predecessor, Rahul Dravid. These include injury management, player rehabilitation, coaching programs, and the development of roadmaps for senior teams, age-group cricket, and women’s cricket.

One of Laxman’s key challenges will be the revival of the India A tour program, which has been sporadic over the past two years. Under Dravid’s leadership, India A tours, both incoming and outbound, were more frequent.

Laxman’s extended tenure at the NCA is a testament to his commitment to developing Indian cricket. The new state-of-the-art campus will provide him with the resources to further enhance the academy’s programs and facilities.

Jay Shah Unveils Ambitious Plans to Revolutionize Indian Cricket

Jay Shah Unveils Ambitious Plans to Revolutionize Indian Cricket

Jay Shah, the dynamic BCCI secretary, is spearheading a transformative era for Indian cricket. With a vision to elevate the sport to unprecedented heights, he has unveiled ambitious plans that will revolutionize the cricketing landscape.

Shah’s most significant announcement is the establishment of a state-of-the-art National Cricket Academy (NCA) on the outskirts of Bengaluru. This world-class facility will not only cater to the needs of Indian cricketers but also be accessible to Olympic athletes like Neeraj Chopra. The NCA will serve as a hub for player development, injury rehabilitation, and cutting-edge sports science research.

In addition to the NCA, Shah has also announced plans for a cricket stadium in Varanasi and NCA facilities in six North-Eastern states and Jammu. These initiatives aim to promote cricket in underrepresented regions and provide equal opportunities for aspiring cricketers.

Regarding the upcoming Champions Trophy, Shah emphasized that the BCCI will cross the bridge when it comes to India’s participation in Pakistan. He expressed confidence in hosting the Bangladesh series despite the recent political turmoil in the neighboring country.

Shah also addressed concerns about the impact player rule in the IPL. While acknowledging its potential to limit the development of all-rounders, he emphasized the need to consider the interests of broadcasters and the overall growth of the game.

On the topic of player retentions and mega auctions, Shah stated that the BCCI will make a decision based on the majority view of franchise owners. He acknowledged the desire for consistency among settled teams but also recognized the benefits of shuffling things up to foster competition.

Shah’s vision extends beyond the men’s game. He is committed to the development of women’s cricket, highlighting the success of the Women’s Premier League. He expressed optimism about expanding the league in the future and exploring the possibility of a Test Championship for women.

To address the financial challenges faced by weaker cricket boards, Shah proposed the creation of a dedicated fund for touring fees in Test cricket. He believes that this will encourage teams to participate in the longest format of the game.

Shah also discussed the appointment of Morne Morkel as India’s bowling coach and the need for a 15-day gap between the end of the IPL and the WTC final to ensure adequate preparation.

In conclusion, Jay Shah’s bold initiatives are poised to transform Indian cricket. His focus on infrastructure development, player welfare, and the promotion of the sport in all corners of the country will undoubtedly elevate India’s cricketing prowess to new heights.

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