MS Dhoni set to launch cricket academy in Singapore
What's the story?
Indian wicket-keeper batsman MS Dhoni is all set to open a cricket academy in Singapore. The 36-year old stalwart will inaugurate his second such venture in overseas territory on January 20 at St Patrick's School.
In a press release, Dhoni stated, "Sports should be an essential driver for the development of a child’s character. Apart from being fit, you can learn leadership and other important aspects of life via sports. Every kid should play an outdoor sport. MS Dhoni Cricket Academy is not only about producing cricket talent, but our academy’s vision is to guide a kid to become a champion in life via sports."
In case you didn't know...
During November last year, Dhoni had launched his first global cricket academy at Al Quoz in Dubai. Terming the inauguration of the venture as the fulfillment of his 'dream', he had collaborated with Pacific Sports Club and Aarka Sports Club.
The heart of the matter
For the cricket academy in Singapore, the core aspects of training as well as academy curriculum has been designed meticulously by Dhoni himself. The seasoned campaigner has launched the academy in association with Singapore national women’s team captain GK Diviya. A couple of players from the men's team such as Chetan Suryavanshi and Chaminda Ruwan will also be involved with its operation.
Located at St Patrick’s School on East Coast Road, the cricket academy will primarily cater to children of almost every age-group and provide them with the opportunity to learn from experienced coaches. Ostensibly, the registration process began during December last year and as many as 200 children have signed up with the academy thus far.
What's next?
The launch of a cricket academy in Singapore is a major step in Dhoni's dream of opening such ventures across Asia. He is working closely with Academia7 and Aarka Sports Club to launch 12 more such academies spanning the various parts of the continent.
Meanwhile, the veteran gloveman's next assignment on the field will be the six-match ODI series in South Africa. The opening ODI is scheduled to take place on February 1 at Durban.
Author's take
Dhoni's involvement in the venture sheds light on his eagerness to promote the game at grassroots level in places outside the purview of the predominant cricket circuit. His academy in Singapore is an admirable venture and can genuinely spur the growth of the sport in the island city-state.