Don Bhagawati Opens Academy Doors to ACA for Training Opportunities

Our Sports Reporter

GUWAHATI: From the cricket grounds of Assam to the international stage, former Ranji Trophy player Don Bhagawati continues to make his mark in the game. The ex-first-class cricketer has recently launched his second training hub — the City Cricket Academy by Smriti Mandhana in Dubai — with a vision to nurture talent from across the globe. In an exclusive conversation with The Sentinel, Don spoke about the academy’s world-class infrastructure, its inclusive approach, and how it could serve as a pre-season base for teams like the Assam Cricket Association (ACA). Here’s an excerpt from the interview.

The Sentinel (TS): First of all, congratulations on the launch of your new cricket academy in Dubai. Could you share the inspiration and ideas behind starting this venture?

Don: Thank you! The inspiration behind this venture is to build a state-of-the-art facility that supports cricketers from all around the world. In England, we have long winters, and many players travel abroad to train and prepare for the summer season. Dubai is easily accessible and close to India, making it an ideal location. We want to create a hub where players can develop their game and grow as individuals. We’ve been running this concept in England since 2006. After almost two decades of experience, we felt it was the right time to expand. Smriti Mandhana, who is like family to us, was happy to come onboard, and we’re absolutely delighted to have her support.

(TS): This is perhaps your second cricket academy after the one in England?

Don:Yes, it is an expansion of our Cricket Academy based in Leicester, England.

(TS): What is your long-term vision for the Dubai academy? Are there plans to expand further or introduce specialized programs for different age groups or skill levels?

Don: For now, our focus is on what we have. We’ll be offering High-Performance Residential Programs to support aspiring cricketers. The goal is to build strong foundations first before thinking of further expansion or specialized additions.

(TS): You’ve partnered with Smriti Mandhana for this new academy. How did this collaboration come about, and what role will she be playing in its development?

Don: This is the City Cricket Academy by Smriti Mandhana. While Smriti is a current international cricketer and won’t be involved in regular coaching, she’ll play a key role by sharing her knowledge and methods that made her successful. These insights will be passed on to our players. She’ll remain in touch and, time permitting, will visit the academy. Actually, It was mutual feeling. Over a cup of tea (being Assamese tea must be around), in just about 10 minutes, we felt our values and principles aligned and decided to do it together.

(TS): Could you give us a brief overview of the facilities and infrastructure available at the Dubai academy?

Don: We have nine newly laid turf wickets, all customized for quality play. The academy is equipped with modern coaching technology to support player development, and we also have access to organize and play matches, making it a complete training ground.

(TS): Will the academy be open to teams or associations from outside the UAE? For example, can state associations like the Assam Cricket Association use it for pre-season camps or short training stints?

Don: Of course. That’s one of the core reasons for launching this academy in Dubai. It’s designed to be accessible to elite players, individuals, and teams from around the world. The pitch conditions support both youngsters and professional players preparing for major tournaments. I plan to personally connect with the Assam Cricket Association soon to explore how we can create a win-win scenario. It would be fantastic to have players from Assam and England training and playing together here. UAE also has a strong team, so this setup could benefit everyone involved. 

 (TS): It’s been a while since we’ve seen you in Guwahati. Do you still hold fond memories of your playing days here and your time with the Assam Ranji Trophy team?

Don: That’s in the past, and a lot has happened since then. Of course, there are memories—I try to remember the good ones! Some people from that time remain very close to me, but I don’t dwell on it too much.

(TS): Finally, what message would you like to share with aspiring cricketers from Assam and the Northeast who dream of making it big on the international stage?

Don: Ask yourself this: How sincerely do you want it? Are you prepared to sacrifice a normal life? If your answer is yes, then go all in. Work hard, stay focused, and don’t let anything or anyone stop you from chasing your dream.

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