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Aakash Chopra Champions Tennis-Bricket Talent: "Why Hostage to Leather Ball?"

Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has strongly advocated for the recognition of talent emerging from tennis-ball cricket. He argues that the skill, innovation, and outstanding quality seen in this grassroots format deserve equal opportunities on bigger platforms. Chopra highlights the distinct skills, such as unique stroke-making and bowling variations, that tennis-ball cricket cultivates. He calls for an evolution in perception, stating that a future in cricket should not be hostage to playing only with a leather ball.

Key Points: Aakash Chopra Backs Tennis-Ball Cricket Talent for BRPL

  • BRPL tennis-ball league starts Sept 19
  • Chopra highlights distinct skill set
  • Advocates for grassroots talent recognition
  • Says perception of format must evolve
2 min read

"Why should talent be hostage to leather ball?": Aakash Chopra backs tennis-ball cricketers

Former cricketer Aakash Chopra advocates for recognition of tennis-ball cricket skills, calling for equal opportunities in leagues like the BRPL.

"Why should talent be hostage to leather ball?": Aakash Chopra backs tennis-ball cricketers
"Why should talent be hostage to the leather ball? - Aakash Chopra"

Delhi, March 28

Former cricketer Aakash Chopra has advocated for recognising tennis-ball cricket talent, emphasising that skill and innovation from grassroots deserve equal opportunities on bigger platforms like the Beyond Reach Premier League.

The first season of the tennis-ball league, BRPL, is set to be held from September 19 to October 10 this year, welcoming aspiring and semi-professional cricketers aged 18-40, from 28 states and 8 Union Territories across India.

Reflecting on his own journey, Akash Chopra said he did not experience gully or tennis-ball cricket, having entered structured cricket at a very young age, according to a release.

"Actually, I did not play tennis ball cricket. I started with a season ball. I joined a cricket club at the age of 9. So I was young, at the age where I should be playing tennis cricket or gully cricket, but I did not get to play and we were playing with the leather ball," said Aakash Chopra.

Highlighting the distinct skill set of tennis-ball cricket, Aakash Chopra stressed that the format produces exceptional and often underrated talent.

"These are two different balls, and why should talent be hostage to the leather ball? When I look back now, after seeing a lot of tennis-ball cricket across the country, the quality is outstanding -- the stroke-making, the bowling, especially variations like leg cutters and off cutters," he added.

The former Indian cricketer further underlined that the perception around tennis-ball cricket needs to evolve, as it demands a different yet equally valuable skill set.

"If we think that if you don't play with the leather ball, you don't have a future, that's not right. It is still a sport played with a bat and ball -- just a different skill set, and one that deserves recognition," Aakash Chopra said.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who has watched both formats, I appreciate Aakash's point. The innovation in tennis-ball cricket is incredible. But I hope the focus remains on skill development and not just creating another commercial league. The pathway to professional cricket still needs clarity.
V
Vikram M
Absolutely correct. Leather ball cricket requires money - kits, coaching, grounds. Tennis-ball cricket is the sport of the common man. Talent should not be limited by economic background. This is a great step towards inclusivity in Indian sports.
P
Priya S
My brother is a brilliant tennis-ball bowler in our colony tournaments. He never got a chance in "proper" cricket because he started late. Hope this league gives players like him a platform. More power to BRPL! 🙌
A
Aman W
Respectfully, while the intent is good, we must be careful. Tennis-ball skills don't always translate to the first-class game. The bounce, seam, and swing are completely different. Recognition is fine, but let's not confuse the two distinct skill sets.
K
Kavya N
This is the real cricket of India! Every chai shop, every street corner has players. The hand-eye coordination and reflexes developed are top-notch. Glad a former Test player is acknowledging this grassroots talent pool. Jai Hind!

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