When dreams become reality

“Our lives have changed after this cricket academy was set-up here. Now we use our energy in learning cricket and also in taking part in the local tournaments. Before this,life was different but now we feel secured and focused in life,” said Manoj,a batsman in the making.

His brother Ravi,an all-rounder,said,”Apart from playing cricket here,I have picked up attributes like discipline,leadership,control,respect etc.”

Not only youngsters from the city this academy has come as a boon for someone like 16-year old Wasim Ahmed from Gulmarg,who he is taking coaching here: “Due to excessive snowfall in winters,I have come along with my family in Chandigarh. This academy is so good that I am thinking of taking admission in GMS Bapu Dham Colony and pursue cricket here only.”

Till one year ago,the ground spreading over a huge 5.5 acre of land,was a breeding area for diseases as people living in the colony has converted it into a garbage dumping land. In June this year,the LIC Club,in collaboration with Chandigarh Education Department (Chandigarh Administration),decided to give a make-over to the ground. It was on the insistence of Ram Niwas that such a proposal took shape,aiming at providing platform to the poor children,that too without charging fees.

The ground,where once street children indulged in fights,has been transformed into a well-equipped cricket nursery with proper facilities. Around 200 tree saplings were planted around the ground to give it a green cover. Bermuda grass is spread over the ground along with four practice wickets and five centre wickets.

There are around 40 girls and 45 boys seeking coaching at the academy. Shaloo (15),a trainee and a left-arm medium-pacer,said,”I was always interested in cricket,but there were lesser avenues for girls to learn the game. This academy provides congenial atmosphere with top-class coaching. We are always given a sense of security and encouragement. It’s like a dream come true.”

The youngest in the academy is 8-year-old Nandini. Deepinder Chabra,LIC Club secretary,who takes care of GMS Bapu Dham Colony cricket academy,had organised few matches of a prestigious tournament like JP Atray Memorial here.