Pune: The Spin and Swing Cricket Academy was inaugurated in Pune by senior Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara and Union Minister of Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, marking a significant step towards inclusive sports development and community upliftment.
The launch of the Spin and Swing Cricket Academy took place at Shinde High School Ground in Pune, reinforcing a shared commitment by ASK Foundation24 and SML to promote grassroots cricket through a strong CSR-driven approach.
The initiative aims to nurture young cricketers – especially children from underprivileged backgrounds – by providing structured training, professional mentorship, and access to quality sports infrastructure.
This inauguration represents a key milestone in SML’s CSR journey, undertaken in collaboration with ASK Foundation24. Through the Spin and Swing Cricket Academy, SML seeks to create equal opportunities for children who may otherwise lack access to professional cricket training.
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ASK Foundation24, known for its focus on holistic child development, plays a crucial role in identifying and supporting deserving young talent, ensuring that financial or social barriers do not limit their potential.
Adding deeper meaning to the occasion, children of farmers from nearby communities took to the field on the launch day to play a T-10 match.
The match symbolized the academy’s spirit of inclusion and opportunity. Their presence reflected the core belief of the Spin and Swing Cricket Academy – that talent exists everywhere, and with the right support, every child deserves a chance to play, compete, and dream.
Dignitaries Grace the Launch of Spin and Swing Cricket Academy
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several distinguished personalities, including Kedar Jadhav, ASK Foundation24 Founder Avani Shantanu Agasti, Shantanu Agasti, SML Managing Director Bimal Shah, Abhishek Boke, and Founder & CEO of Spin and Swing, Anand Yalvigi.
Also present was Dronacharya Award-winning coach Dinesh Lad, known for mentoring international cricketers such as Rohit Sharma, among others.
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Vision Behind Spin and Swing Cricket Academy
Anand Yalvigi, Founder and CEO of Spin and Swing, said, “Spin and Swing is built on the belief that sports can be a transformative force in the lives of young people. Through this academy, we aim not only to train cricketers but also to instill values such as discipline, perseverance, and teamwork.
We are committed to providing structured mentoring, world-class training, and an inclusive environment where children from diverse backgrounds can pursue their passion and unlock their full potential. Today’s event marks a step toward building a long-term ecosystem that connects sporting excellence with social responsibility.”
Avani Shantanu Agasti, Founder of ASK Foundation24, added, “We have always believed in empowering children through holistic development, and sports play a vital role in that journey. Collaborating with Spin and Swing and SML allows us to expand our impact and ensure that young talent receives 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. Such initiatives strengthen our mission of sustainable community development and shaping the next generation of changemakers.”
Bimal Shah, Managing Director of SML, stated, “Supporting initiatives that combine innovation, growth, and social responsibility is at the core of SML’s vision. The Spin and Swing Cricket Academy is a unique platform where business, community, and sport converge to create meaningful impact.
By empowering young cricketers, we are contributing to the future of the sport while driving social development. Such collaborations bring together skills, resources, and passion to create opportunities for children who may otherwise not have access to structured sports training.”
Cheteshwar Pujara remarked, “It is truly inspiring to see 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 not just a game; it is a medium to build character and confidence. I look forward to being part of this journey, sharing my experiences, and encouraging these young talents to aim high, work hard, and embrace the spirit of the game with passion and integrity.”
Training to Begin from March 2, 2026
Starting March 2, 2026, the Spin and Swing Cricket Academy will roll out structured training modules, mentorship programs, and competitive exposure opportunities.
Selected children from underprivileged communities will receive supported training under the CSR framework facilitated by SML and ASK Foundation24. This support will include coaching access, equipment, and structured development pathways.
Beyond Pune, the Spin and Swing Cricket Academy initiative will expand in collaboration with Pujara Academy in Rajkot and Matunga Gymkhana in Mumbai.
Further plans are underway to extend the program to Punjab, Telangana, and Tamil Nadu. This phased expansion reflects a long-term vision of building a strong grassroots cricket ecosystem that is inclusive, sustainable, and socially responsible.
