The Emirates Cricket Board (ECB) is set to implement a formal licensing and oversight framework for cricket academies in the UAE, following a string of abrupt closures—including the recent suspension of the Rohit Sharma Academy less than a year after launch.
The move is part of a broader push to bring transparency, quality control, and consistency to the grassroots cricket ecosystem, which has seen a proliferation of privately run academies, many using the names of international stars but lacking sustainable infrastructure.
ECB to register and monitor all academies
Speaking to Gulf News, an ECB spokesperson confirmed that a mandatory registration system for all UAE-based cricket academies is being finalized.
“The Emirates Cricket Board is working on a registration process, which includes cricket academies based in the UAE. The process is expected to be completed soon. Once the process is formalised and put into action, all cricket academies operating in the UAE will need to register with the ECB. The board will monitor these academies to ensure compliance with its policy, procedures and guidelines.”
The initiative comes amid growing concerns over operational gaps and a lack of due diligence in high-profile ventures that have carried the names of cricketing legends like Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Ravichandran Ashwin, and most recently, Rohit Sharma.
‘Fame isn’t enough’ — Lalchand Rajput urges focus on coaching standards
UAE head coach Lalchand Rajput, in comments to Gulf News, emphasized the foundational role that certified coaches and structured development systems play in shaping future cricketers.
“It’s very important for any country to have a good coaching structure at the grassroots. Clubs and academies are where players start their journey, and if they are guided by proper coaches with good facilities, they pick up the nuances of the game early. Getting the basics right at a young age is crucial.”
He cautioned parents against being swayed by big names alone.
“Most parents get attracted by the big names. But the real question is: how involved are those big names? How much time are they giving? Are the children actually benefitting? Parents should focus more on whether the coaches are passionate, knowledgeable, and consistent — not just the brand attached to the academy.”
Addressing the Rohit Sharma Academy situation, Rajput added:
“When you associate with something like an academy, you must know who you’re dealing with. If things don’t go well, your reputation is on the line. So the responsibility is shared — both by the player and the local operators.”
Mazhar Khan: sustainability, not celebrity, builds cricketers
Sharjah Cricket Council administrator Mazhar Khan echoed Rajput’s concerns in his remarks to Gulf News, pointing out that real development stems from structured, long-term commitment rather than star affiliations.
“Sharjah Cricket Academy was started back in 1984. It’s one of the oldest in the country.”
“Over the past 10 to 15 years, many academies have mushroomed across Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi. A lot of them have done great work — especially in nurturing local kids who now make up a large portion of the national team.”
He urged parents to consider the stability and track record of an academy before enrolling their children.
“A lot of parents hop between academies every couple of years. That’s not how you develop a cricketer. Continuity is a must. A good academy with stable coaching staff, proper match exposure, and a proven track record will always bring out the best in a child.”
Khan, whose academy currently trains over 140 kids across various age groups, said playing regular matches is essential for holistic development.
“Practice sessions alone aren’t enough. Playing matches is what truly shapes a cricketer. We make sure our kids play at least one game a week. That’s how they build temperament, game awareness, and confidence.”
He also pushed back on the overreliance on big names.
“There are no shortcuts to success. Big names might attract attention initially, but they don’t necessarily offer a real solution. Part-timers or fly-by-night operators won’t help. You need consistent, qualified coaching. That’s what parents should be looking for.”
Toward a more accountable cricket academy ecosystem
The ECB’s new framework—expected to include academy registration, staff qualifications, background checks, and venue compliance—could be a turning point for youth cricket in the UAE. The goal: eliminate unregulated operators, prevent reputational risks, and build a pipeline of properly developed local talent.
As the UAE strengthens its position as a global cricketing hub—with growing grassroots engagement, a franchise league in the ILT20, and increasing international exposure—ensuring stability and quality at the foundational level is more critical than ever.
For parents and young players, the message from cricket leaders is clear: development comes from structure, not celebrity. Big names may lend glamour, but only long-term, consistent investment in coaching and match play will produce the next generation of UAE cricket stars.
