Which is the Best Cricket Academy in India?

Before enrolling their child in cricket, parents should make sure that the academy in which they are admitting their child has the right atmosphere which can help in grooming them into a good player. Few characteristics of a good academy include proper infrastructure, technologically advanced machines, certified cricket coaches etc. Nowadays we find cricket academies in every locality and they are easily accessible. Hence, it is important to do proper research before enrolling somewhere. Players should go to academies where they can get sufficient time to practice their skills and where the coaching staff has good knowledge about the skill set. Along with all this, a player should get the liberty to express their game. 

In this article by ZAP Cricket, let's look at a list of the top 10 best cricket academies in India. 

The Top 10 Best Cricket Academies in India

MRF Pace Foundation Academy, Chennai

Credit: Hindu

Fast bowling is a very challenging task as it requires a lot of technicalities and sports science. The MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai is one of the best cricket academies for fast bowlers and is dedicated to training and developing fast bowlers for the Indian cricket team. Founded by the former Australian pacer Dennis Lillee, the foundation focuses on enhancing fast bowlers' techniques and increasing their speed. It helps players align their actions and improve their performance. The academy has successfully trained several notable Indian fast bowlers, including Zaheer Khan, Irfan Pathan, and Munaf Patel. 

Also Read: Why should you join a cricket academy

Karnataka Institute of Cricket, Bangalore

The Karnataka Institute of Cricket (KIOC) in Bangalore is a top cricket academy in India and is known for its comprehensive, year-round training. Led by Director Irfan Sait, KIOC has over 40 skilled cricket coaches who offer personalized coaching and guidance for batsmen, bowlers and for fielding. The academy's state-of-the-art facilities, includes fully covered practice nets, advanced video analysis tools, and floodlit grounds. The KIOC has had some very succesful alumni, including international cricketers like Manish Pandey, Robin Uthappa, Mayank Agarwal, and Shreyas Iyer, who have all excelled on the global stage.

National cricket Academy, Bangalore

The National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore, run by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in 2000, is a premier institution for nurturing young cricket talent in India. Located at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the academy was founded by Raj Singh Dungarpur and is currently directed by former Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid. The NCA is is known for its exceptional facilities, including multiple practice wickets, modern gym equipment, and indoor training areas, making it an ideal environment for cricketers to develop their skills. The academy is open to everyone and only top talents are invited to training camps here. Most of the players of the Indian Cricket Team often come here for training and rehabilitation after an injury.

Also Read: Gym Workout and exercises for Cricketers

Abhimanyu Cricket Academy, Dehradun

Abhimanyu Cricket Academy is a picturesque ground situated in Dehradun. It is privately owned cricket academy. Players can take admission here and their schooling and practice will be well taken care of. ACA has all the facilities like indoor nets, bowling machines, a well equipped modern gym etc. They provide hostel facilities as well. All the players staying here get a well planned meal as is is a major part of development for any cricketer. A lot of players including Sarfaraz Khan and his brother Musheer Khan have had their training sessions at this academy. 

Sonnet Cricket Club, Delhi

The Sonnet Cricket Club in Delhi was established in 1969 by coach Tarak Sinha, and is one of the oldest and most respected cricket academies in India. Known for producing top-tier cricketers like Virender Sehwag, Rishabh Pant, and Ashish Nehra, the club has a rich history of nurturing talent that goes on to represent India internationally. The academy offers specialized coaching, mentorship, and thorough technical analysis to help young players refine their skills. The atmosphere in this academy is very positive, as each and every player is seen working hard. Mr. Tarak Sinha used to be the head coach here and he was the sole reason why the club reached such tremendous heights. 

LB Shastri Cricket Club, Delhi

The L.B. Shastri Cricket Academy, based in Delhi, is one of India's top cricket academies, founded in 1996 by Dr. Sanjay Bharadwaj, who is recognized with the prestigious Dronacharya Award. This academy is well-known for producing famous international cricketers like Gautam Gambhir and Amit Mishra. With a focus on nurturing talent, the academy offers modern facilities and conducts specialized training, including summer camps and international tours, to help students experience diverse cricket conditions. It also provides unique opportunities for female cricketers, and we can see that in the success of the former Indian Woman's Team player Reema Malhotra.

Also Read: Cricket Batting Tips and Techniques

Sehwag Cricket Academy, Delhi

Sehwag Cricket Academy in Jhajjar was only founded in 2011 and in 13 years, has already become one of India's top cricket academies. The academy is known for its excellent coaching and facilities, guided by experienced coaches, including Sehwag himself. It provides a well-rounded training experience with opportunities to interact with professional cricketers and participate in various tournaments throughout the year. The academy emphasizes not just cricket skills but also overall physical development, offering international-standard sports facilities and programs.

VB Cricket Academy, Chennai

Credit: Justdial

VB Cricket Academy, in Chennai was founded by former Indian cricketer V.B. Chandrasekhar in 1997, and is known for its top-notch cricket training. The academy trains young cricketers aged 6 to 19, offering a range of foundational and advanced training. It stands out due to its emphasis on all aspects of the game, including batting, bowling, and fielding techniques. The coaching staff is known for their expertise and use of modern techniques, including video analysis and bowling machines. The academy’s facilities include summer camps, physical training, and match preparation on turf wickets.

Madan Lal Cricket Academy, Delhi