Super Kings Franchise Expands Global Footprint: Launches Cricket Academy in Dallas Metro After Securing Major League Cricket (MLC) Texas Franchise
Following the acquisition of the Texas franchise in Major League Cricket (MLC), the Super Kings franchise is making significant strides in promoting grassroots cricket. The latest endeavor involves the establishment of a cricket academy in their home base, the Dallas Metropolitan area. Situated in Lewisville, a Dallas suburb, this new facility marks the Super Kings’ ninth state-of-the-art training center, complementing existing successful ventures in London and Tamil Nadu.
Louis Mariano, the Director of Cricket at the Super Kings Academy, expressed enthusiasm about bringing the Super Kings Academy to the USA. He highlighted the tremendous potential for the sport’s growth, emphasizing the academy’s role in contributing to grassroots cricket, bringing the sport into the mainstream, and elevating existing talent to new heights. With Dallas serving as the home base for the Texas Super Kings, the launch of the academy in this location aligns seamlessly with the franchise’s long-term plans in the market.
Disrupting the Cricket Coaching Landscape in Dallas Metro and Beyond
In what appears to be a logical step for a Major League franchise, the Super Kings are not only investing in grassroots cricket but also tapping into a flourishing cricket coaching industry. The Dallas Metro area, currently housing eight cricket academies with a combined enrollment of over 600 kids throughout the year, boasts an annual gross revenue exceeding USD 1.75 million in the cricket coaching sector. The entry of the Super Kings Academy is poised to bring about a significant upheaval in the cricket coaching landscape, not only within Dallas but across the entire United States. Leveraging their devoted fan base, the Super Kings aim to attract a surge in enrollment at their academies.
The initial phase of the academy will feature an indoor facility comprising six full-length cricket lanes equipped with cutting-edge video analysis tools. Additionally, there will be ample space dedicated to fielding and conditioning, along with access to an outdoor ground for regular match practice. As part of their medium and long-term plans, the Super Kings also anticipate the addition of another turf wicket field in close proximity to their indoor location, further solidifying their commitment to fostering cricket talent in the region.
The Super Kings’ venture into grassroots cricket in Dallas is poised to be a significant boost for the sport’s penetration into the broader American community, particularly among those with no cultural ties to the Commonwealth. Armed with substantial resources and a sizable fan base, the Super Kings are strategically positioned to propel cricket into the mainstream within Dallas Metro schools. Drawing inspiration from the packed audiences attending their home games at the Grand Prairie stadium, the Super Kings aim to catalyze a new era for cricket in the already thriving Dallas youth cricket scene. This initiative not only marks a commendable effort to popularize the sport but also underscores the potential for cricket to flourish in diverse cultural landscapes.
Shardul Thakur Shares What Makes Chennai Super Kings a Special Franchise, as He Makes a Comeback to Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2024
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have successfully secured the return of Team India’s bowling all-rounder, Shardul Thakur, for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. In a bidding showdown with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), CSK emerged victorious, acquiring Thakur for a sum of INR 4 crore. This marks Thakur’s second stint with the Men in Yellow, as he previously played for CSK from 2018 to 2021.
Expressing his thoughts on rejoining the five-time champions, Thakur acknowledged the franchise’s unwavering support during his initial tenure. He emphasized the trust and investment the team placed in him, providing numerous opportunities in IPL matches from 2018 to 2021. Despite facing challenges, particularly a tough outing in the final, Thakur commended CSK for standing by him. Reflecting on their collective journey, he revealed, “We lost in the final, and I had a poor game with the ball. Despite that, they backed me, and we became champions two years later,” as shared with Ravichandran Ashwin.
Having clinched the IPL title with Chennai Super Kings in 2018 and 2021, Shardul Thakur is gearing up for a triumphant return to the Men in Yellow. Notably, he played a pivotal role as the team’s leading wicket-taker in both championship-winning campaigns.
Expressing his aspirations for the upcoming IPL season, Thakur is determined to replicate his stellar performances. He stated, “I want to repeat the same performance in IPL 2024. I aspire to finish as their highest wicket-taker.” Thakur’s ambitions align with his track record of delivering crucial breakthroughs for CSK, and he aims to play a pivotal role once again in the team’s quest for success.
It’s worth noting that Thakur was released by Kolkata Knight Riders after a season where he secured seven wickets in 11 matches.
