JOIN US In an attempt to recognise and groom promising bowling talent in the State, the IDBI Federal Life Insurance launched a bowling foundation in collaboration with the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) on Thursday.
Former Australian fast bowler Jeff Thomson will don the role of the head coach for the foundation which will involve 36 youngsters across the State. Former Indian all-rounder Roger Binny will coach the pacers while former Karnataka player Raghuram Bhatt will train the spinners.
“The best part of this bowling foundation is that the youngsters are very keen on learning. Our aim is to recognise potential in players and give maximum exposure and opportunity to them,” Thomson said at the launch.
Thomson, who previously groomed and mentored a clutch of top class quicks at the MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai, said the foundation will help Indian cricket in the long run. “Down the line, this initiative is very useful, keeping Indian cricket in mind. We will certainly be able to produce great talent,” he said.
At the launch, two Karnataka pacers –– Ruchir Joshi and Shashank K, who were selected by the KSCA — were awarded a scholarship worth Rs two lakh.
KSCA Secretary Brijesh Patel said the foundation had come at the right time. “Karnataka, after enjoying two glorious years, failed to perform well this year. The team was not able to take 20 wickets and produce outright wins. This foundation will not only focus on training the senior and junior players on the aspect of bowling out opponents but also look at the aspect of players’ ability to cope with fitness and mental strength.”