State-of-the-art ‘Punit Balan Cricket Academy’ brings BCCI-standard training, facilities, and coaching opportunities for emerging players across Maharashtra.
In a landmark development for Indian cricket, Pune is set to witness a major boost in sports infrastructure with the launch of the Punit Balan Cricket Academy by the Punit Balan Group. Designed to meet BCCI standards, this state-of-the-art academy aims to become India’s largest private cricket training facility, offering world-class professional coaching and facilities for young and emerging cricketers.
Known for his consistent efforts to promote sports across India, Punit Balan, Chairman and Managing Director of the Punit Balan Group, has taken another bold step toward nurturing new sporting talent. Through this ambitious project, he aims to strengthen Pune’s reputation as a sporting hub and provide aspiring cricketers with an ideal platform to advance their professional careers.
BCCI-standard academy for young cricketers
Sharing the vision behind this venture, Punit Balan said, “The Punit Balan Cricket Academy will be a major milestone in the cricket infrastructure of Pune. Two major cricket grounds have been identified — Sinhgad College Ground at Vadgaon and a dedicated cricket ground at Lonavala. Both centers will have all facilities adhering to BCCI standards, making them capable of hosting official matches in the near future.”
He further added that from the upcoming season, the academy will also host official BCCI matches, adding another feather to Pune’s growing sports legacy. Every aspect — from turf design to player training — will follow national-level guidelines, ensuring that the academy operates on par with India’s professional training centers.
Admissions and training schedule
Admissions to the Punit Balan Cricket Academy will open from January 1, with coaching sessions beginning on January 15. BCCI-certified coaches will conduct training sessions, emphasizing both technical excellence and physical conditioning. To maintain quality, admissions will be limited, ensuring personalized attention and focused development for each trainee.
The academy’s training programs have been designed for serious cricketers aiming to play competitively at state or national levels. Players will undergo scheduled practice sessions, match simulations, and skill-specific drills to enhance their on-field performance.
Round-the-year training and top-class facilities
One of the academy’s standout features is its ability to offer uninterrupted training throughout the year. Even during the monsoon season, players can continue their practice, thanks to three indoor practice wickets available at each ground. This year-round training model will help players maintain form and continuity — a crucial factor in high-performance cricket.
Both the Sinhgad and Lonavala centers will also provide hostel facilities, making it convenient for students from across Maharashtra and other states to enroll. The campus will include a modern gymnasium, swimming pool, and fitness coaching facilities to ensure holistic athletic development. To complement physical training, there will also be dedicated programs for sports psychology and nutrition guidance — helping young athletes stay fit both mentally and physically.
Empowering women’s cricket
Another highlight of the academy is its strong focus on women’s cricket development. Dedicated batches will be organized exclusively for women cricketers, with training offered at concessional rates to encourage greater participation. This inclusive approach is a significant step toward promoting gender equality in sports and helping talented female players access high-quality training facilities.
By providing structured coaching, equal opportunities, and professional exposure, the academy hopes to inspire the next generation of women cricketers from Maharashtra and beyond to compete at national and international levels.
Pathway to professional tournaments
In addition to regular training, players from the Punit Balan Cricket Academy will get the opportunity to participate in various invitational and competitive tournaments through the PBG Judicial Cricket Club, a sports entity under the Punit Balan Group. Such tournament exposure will help players gain vital match experience and visibility among selectors and talent scouts.
Punit Balan emphasized that this initiative is part of his larger vision to identify and nurture deserving talent from a young age. By bridging the gap between grassroots training and professional opportunities, the academy will serve as a stepping stone for cricketers aspiring to represent Maharashtra and ultimately, Team India.
Strengthening Maharashtra’s sporting excellence
Pune has long been known for producing talented athletes across sports, and with the establishment of this academy, the city will further strengthen its reputation as a key contributor to India’s cricketing ecosystem. The region’s young players, who previously had to travel to larger metro cities for advanced training, will now have access to high-end facilities and professional mentoring right at their doorstep.
Balan stated, “The ‘Punit Balan Cricket Academy’ has been established to offer world-class training to emerging and talented players. With our facilities and expert coaches, young cricketers will get the opportunity to shine at national and international levels, contributing to Maharashtra’s sporting reputation.”
About Punit Balan Group
The Punit Balan Group has been at the forefront of promoting sports, entertainment, and social initiatives across India. Under the leadership of Punit Balan, the group has supported various sporting leagues, athletes, and cultural ventures that empower young Indians through opportunities and mentorship. The launch of the Punit Balan Cricket Academy is a natural extension of this commitment — aimed at creating a sustainable ecosystem for sports talent development.
With Pune emerging as a major center for cricket excellence, this initiative is expected to play a key role in shaping India’s future sporting champions. The academy will not only train players but also strengthen Pune’s infrastructure as a cricket city of national importance.
