Kolkata to have NCA-like facility soon, Sandeep Patil appointed as the head of the project

Kolkata could soon have a facility like the Bengaluru-based National Cricket Academy (NCA) and the onus will be on former India batsman Sandeep Patil to ensure that the ambitious project lives up to the expectations.

The project was unveiled in Kolkata on Tuesday (July 2) and Sandeep Patil has been appointed as its head. Shrachi Sports Ventures, who have launched the project, have given the former cricketer a five-year contract. The facility is located at the Athlead International School in Joka.

The former India batsman had served as the director of the NCA in the past and will be looking to make the most of his experience. Member of the 1983 World Cup-winning Indian team, Sandeep Patil has also roped in his old team of Dinesh Nanavati, Gautam Shome, and sports therapist Ashish Kaushik to be part of the venture.

"When they (Shrachi Sports Ventures) approached me, I took time to say ‘yes’. I really liked what they are going to offer to the Indian cricket. That’s how I’ve agreed," Sandeep Patil was quoted as saying by PTI.

"Those who were at NCA with me Nanavati, Ashish, Shome, I’ve brought all of them here. It’s a team that will work here," he added.

No cricketer will have to go outside: Sandeep Patil

The report stated that the newly-launched project will cater to cricketers from the eastern region and north-east. The project will also work in association with the Cricket Association of Bengal. Patil said that the new project will make sure that the cricketers from the region are not required to go outside for rehab or any other service. Patil also said the facility will cater to athletes from other sports as well.

"From now on, no cricketer will have to go outside for any rehab or any fitness issues, the coaches and facility will cater to all their needs," Patil said.

"I’ve not come here to conduct or supervise the course. I’ve come her for five years staying in Kolkata. I don’t think I can do this while staying in Mumbai — I’ve never done this in my life. When I was a coach of Kenya, Oman or Madhya Pradesh, I made sure I stayed there fully.

"Leander Paes will look after tennis. It will not just be cricket, it will be a full-fledged sports academy in future," Patil added.

Patil has ample coaching experience. He coached the India A team and also served as the manager of the Indian team before joining Kenya as a coach. Under his coaching, Kenya had famously qualified for the semifinal of the 2003 ODI World Cup. Later, Patil had coached Oman as well. He has also plied his trade as a selector of the Indian team. As a cricketer, Patil represented India in 29 Tests and 45 ODIs, scoring over 2500 runs with the help of 4 centuries and 16 half-centuries.