Unmukt, Shivam, and Arif unveil their vision for next-generation cricketers during the preview of Cricket Vault Academy and C.A.P.L in Delhi

Rakesh Thapliyal

New Delhi: With the aim of giving Indian cricket a new direction and grooming talent at the grassroots, the Preview of Cricket Vault Academy and the Cricket Academy Premier League (C.A.P.L.) was held at the India International Centre Annexe, New Delhi.

The event was graced by Unmukt Chand, India’s 2012 U-19 World Cup–winning captain and Player of the final match, along with founder Shivam Sharma and Director Mohammad Arif, who jointly presented the vision and roadmap of this ambitious initiative.

Adding to the dignity of the occasion, Rajya Sabha Member Shri Naresh Bansal marked his special presence at the event. Also in attendance was renowned cricket coach, Dronacharya awardee Shri Sanjay Bhardwaj, mentor of Unmukt Chand, along with several distinguished personalities from the cricketing fraternity and public life. They hailed the initiative as a historic step for the future of Indian cricket.

Coach Shri Sanjay Bhardwaj suggested that “A good sponsor is needed to organize the league, otherwise it is very difficult to run the show for many years.”

In his address, Unmukt Chand emphasized that while India has an immense reservoir of cricketing talent at the grassroots, the lack of structure, scientific training, and opportunities often prevents young players from progressing. With platforms like C.A.P.L, thousands of aspiring cricketers will finally get the stage they deserve to showcase their skills and move towards representing India at the highest level.

It was also announced that the first season of the Cricket Academy Premier League will commence next year. The league is dedicated to those countless youngsters who begin their cricketing journey with dreams of success but are unable to find a platform to move forward. C.A.P.L aims to provide opportunities to more than 90 percent of such players across the country who currently remain outside mainstream cricketing pathways.

As part of this initiative, a special mobile application will also be launched to connect cricket academies and training centers across India. Through this digital platform, district- and state-level competitions will be organized, from which talented players will be identified and provided exposure at the national level through C.A.P.L.

Founder Shivam Sharma and Director Mohammad Arif underlined that the initiative is designed not just for players but also for coaches and trainers. Along with professional training programs, the platform will provide access to cricketing essentials such as bats, balls, kits, and uniforms, ensuring that no aspiring cricketer is held back due to lack of resources.