As Level 3 Asian Cricket Coach coach and ICC Level 2 Master Educator for Asia, Sandeep is tasked with development of coaches and tutors across all regions
Sandeep Dhuri with trainees of the Zayed Cricket Academy in the UAE.
GLOBAL GOENKARS IN SPORT - 2
DOHA
After his playing days in the UAE came to an end, it was but natural for Sandeep Dhuri, a stylish and compact top-order batsman, a mainstay of the Goan Ranji Trophy campaign of his era, to move to the coach’s saddle.
Sandeep has since upgraded his coaching education and knowledge by pursuing the Level 1,2 and 3 certifications under Asian Cricket Council (ACC).
Currently, the Goan is playing a dual role of coach of Zayed Cricket Academy (ZCA) and head coach of Abu Dhabi men’s team which has almost 300 trainees ranging from five-year-olds to 19s, training at the international cricket stadium.
Sandeep is proud to be part of the best academy in the UAE.
“I had passion for the game and after my playing days I thought coaching was the best option to stay connected to the game. Sharing cricketing knowledge and experience and helping youngsters to become better cricketers is my top priority,” said Sandeep.
As a Level 3 Asian Cricket Coach coach and ICC Level 2 Master Educator for Asia, Sandeep is tasked with development of coaches and tutors across all the regions and he is pleased to lend his expertise for the global development of the sport that has given him fulfilment.
“We conducted three programmes last year. We trained the Level 1 tutors for the Oman Cricket Association, another for the whole Asian continent where 14 countries participated for Level 1 tutor and several training programme for UAE to promote coaches here,” added Sandeep.
CRICKET FACILITIES IN GOA
Sandeep said the new and young panel of Goa Cricket Association (GCA) is doing a good job.
“This new young panel of GCA is really doing a wonderful job. They are trying their best to promote cricket in Goa. New cricket venues being opened have upgraded facilities at old venues,” remarked Sandeep.
“At one point, the majority of Vasco cricketers used to be in the State team. Due to lack of facilities, cricket was completely stopped in Vasco. This new GCA panel has started reviving cricket back in Vasco. Centres like Chicalim ground, MPT ground could see cricket happening there and its good sign for cricket,” he said.
Asked to give his suggestions for the improvement of Goan cricket Sandeep said besides infrastructure good coaches are needed.
“More tournaments, especially in age groups, will help to find local talent, run high performance coaching programmes and groom them for the future. Have more academies in every part of Goa with good facilities and importantly supported with good coaches.”
“I want to see Goa Ranji team performing consistently at the national level. Hope the new ideas and initiatives of the new GCA panel will definitely show improvement in our team,” he said.
Sandeep recalled during his days Goa did not have guest players but had a good bunch of home-grown talent who played for the state team.
“We never bought guest players. During our times, Goa had a good Ranji trophy side and there was no need to get guest cricketers,” he said.
“I think having one or two good quality guest cricketers who can help the team with their performances and help young cricketers in grooming them where they can be good cricketers in coming years,” he added. [Concluded]
