Pune, March 06, 2026: Spin & Swing Cricket Academy was inaugurated at Shinde High School Ground in Pune in partnership with ASK Foundation24 and SML, aiming to support grassroots cricket development and provide structured opportunities for young players, particularly from underprivileged backgrounds.
The initiative is anchored in a corporate social responsibility (CSR) framework and focuses on providing aspiring cricketers access to professional coaching, structured training modules, mentorship, and quality sporting infrastructure. Through this collaboration, the partners aim to nurture emerging talent while promoting community development through sports.
The academy is part of SML’s broader CSR efforts, implemented in collaboration with ASK Foundation24. The programme seeks to create equitable access to sports training for children who may otherwise lack access to professional coaching. ASK Foundation24 will support the initiative by identifying and mentoring young talent while promoting holistic child development.
Children of farmers from nearby communities participated in a T10 cricket match during the inauguration ceremony, symbolising the initiative’s focus on inclusion and opportunity. The event brought together members of the sporting fraternity, educators, and industry leaders to discuss the role of sports in community development.
The launch was attended by several prominent cricketing personalities and dignitaries including Shri Muralidhar Mohol, Cheteshwar Pujara, Shreemati Tejal Hasabnis, Shri BB Patil, Shri Kedar Jadhav, Shrimati Avani Shantanu Agasti, Shri Shantanu Agasti, Shri Bimal Shah, Shri Reddy, Shri Mane, Shri Abhishek Bokey, Shri Anand Yalvigi and Dronacharya Award-winning coach Shri Dinesh Lad, who has mentored international cricketers such as Rohit Sharma.
Anand Yalvigi, Founder & CEO of Spin & Swing, said, “Spin & Swing is built on the belief that sports can be a transformative force in the lives of young people. Through this academy, we aim to not just train cricketers but also to instill values such as discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. We are committed to providing structured mentorship, world-class coaching, and an inclusive environment where children from diverse backgrounds can pursue their passion and unlock their full potential. Today’s launch is a step toward building a long-term ecosystem that combines sporting excellence with social responsibility.”
Avani Shantanu Agasti, Founder of ASK Foundation24, added, “At ASK Foundation24, we have always believed in empowering children through holistic development, and sports plays a critical role in this journey. Collaborating with Spin & Swing and SML allows us to extend our impact, ensuring young talent gets the right guidance, infrastructure, and encouragement to excel. This academy is more than just a cricket training center; it is a safe space where children can build confidence, learn life skills, and dream big. Initiatives like these strengthen our mission of sustainable community development and nurture the next generation of changemakers.”
Bimal Shah, MD of SML, said, “Supporting initiatives that combine innovation, growth, and social responsibility is core to SML’s vision. The Spin & Swing Cricket Academy represents a unique platform where business, community, and sport intersect to create meaningful impact. By empowering young cricketers, we are contributing to the future of the game while also fostering social development. It is inspiring to see such collaborations bring together expertise, resources, and passion to create opportunities for children who may not otherwise have access to structured sports training.”
Cheteshwar Pujara, Indian Test Cricket Star, said, “It’s truly inspiring to witness organizations coming together to create opportunities for young cricketers. A platform like this academy not only provides world-class training but also teaches essential life lessons such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Cricket is more than a sport; it’s a medium to build character and confidence. I am excited to be a part of this journey, share my experiences, and encourage these young talents to aim high, work hard, and embrace the spirit of the game with passion and integrity.”
Beginning March 2, 2026, the academy will roll out structured coaching modules, mentorship programmes, and competitive exposure for young cricketers. Selected children from underserved communities will receive supported training under the CSR framework facilitated by SML and ASK Foundation24, covering coaching access, equipment, and structured development pathways.
The initiative is expected to expand beyond Pune to Rajkot in association with Pujara Academy and to Matunga Gymkhana, with future plans across Punjab, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu, aiming to build an inclusive and sustainable grassroots cricket ecosystem across India.
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