How An Ordinary Mumbai Boy Became A Household Name In Cricket
A young boy from Mumbai dreaming of playing cricket at the highest level spending countless hours on the bustling maidans of the city. That boy is Rohit Sharma and today he’s not just a cricketer but a legend in the making. From The Grassroots Rohit’s journey began in the narrow lanes of Borivali, where he first picked up a bat. As a child he was mesmerized by the game and with every swing, he inched closer to his dream. His raw talent was soon spotted by the Dronacharya Awardee, Mr. Dinesh Lad, who converted Rohit from a raw material to a finished product. Listen From Rohit’s Dronacharya Rohit quickly rose through the ranks, making his debut for Indian Cricket Team in 2007. However it wasn’t an easy ride. Early in his career, consistency eluded him and there were whispers about his potential being unfulfilled. Rohit earned his initial IPL contract at the Deccan Chargers in the inaugural season of the league and then shifted to the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2011 season. Since then Rohit has been the face of Mumbai Indians with his spectacular performances. Shifting To The Top Gear Everything changed in 2013 when Rohit was asked to open the innings in ODIs. It was as if a switch flipped. The world witnessed a different Rohit Sharma—one who could single-handedly change the course of a game. His elegant yet powerful stroke play earned him the nickname “Hitman” and a label that stuck after he smashed multiple double centuries, a record that stands unmatched. Rohit’s Family: A First Priority Beyond the cricket field, Rohit’s life is just as remarkable. He married Ritika Sajdeh in 2015, his close confidante and manager. Their bond is often highlighted in the media, especially their adorable daughter, Samaira, who was born in 2018. Rohit Sharma’s journey from the dusty maidans of Mumbai is a story of perseverance, raw talent and an unyielding love for the game. His rise to becoming one of the most feared openers in cricket didn’t happen overnight—it was the result of years of dedication and an unwavering belief in his abilities. Whether he’s smashing centuries at Wankhede or leading India to victory, Rohit embodies the spirit of a true sportsman. His story isn’t just about records and titles, it’s about inspiring millions to chase their dreams no matter where they start. The Sportz Planet Desk,Nitya Sutrave
Shri Dinesh Lad’s Plea For A Cricket Ground: A Call to Empower Young Athletes
Shri Dinesh Lad, the cricket coach and mentor to India’s cricket captain Rohit Sharma, has made a heartfelt appeal to honorable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi. Mr. Lad, who has spent the last 28 years of his life coaching young cricket talent, is asking for a proper cricket ground to help develop future cricket stars. For nearly three decades, Mr. Lad has dedicated himself to coaching at Swami Vivekananda School in Borivali without charging any fees. Under his guidance, 92 students have represented Mumbai at the state level, and ten have played for Mumbai in the prestigious Ranji Trophy. Despite these successes, Mr. Lad faces a significant challenge: the school’s cricket ground is too small for proper training and development. “I appeal to honorable PM Narendra Modi to grant me a good cricket ground,” Shri Lad said. “I have been working in the cricket coaching field for the last 28 years, and I have never expected anything while working nor did I ever take money from anyone. The school that I coach has had 92 students play for the Mumbai state and ten of them played for Mumbai in Ranji but I don’t have a ground. The ground in that school is tiny.“ The lack of proper playgrounds in Mumbai, a bustling city with limited space, is a pressing issue. This scarcity hampers the growth of children and aspiring athletes who need adequate facilities to hone their skills. Mr. Lad’s plea highlights a broader problem faced by many coaches and young sports enthusiasts in the city. “I have applied for a ground in Borivali, and if I get that ground, I promise you I will be able to give more kids to represent the nation,” Mr. Lad continued. His commitment to nurturing talent goes beyond his school. He has adopted ten children from rural areas, hoping to give them the same opportunities he has provided to his students at Swami Vivekananda School. “If I get a ground, I would be able to work better,” he added. Shri Dinesh Lad’s appeal is a reflection of his dedication to cricket and his commitment in fostering new talent right on the grassroots level. His request for a cricket ground is not just a personal need but a crucial step toward providing young athletes with the resources they need to succeed. The lack of playgrounds in Mumbai, over the time, has become a major barrier that has been preventing many children from reaching their full potential in sports. By granting Shri Lad a cricket ground, the Government would recognize his invaluable contributions to Indian cricket and invest in the sport’s future. Providing adequate training facilities is essential for developing young athletes who could represent the nation on the international stage. Shri Dinesh Lad’s appeal to Prime Minister Modi highlights a critical issue facing Mumbai’s sports infrastructure. His selfless dedication to coaching and commitment to nurturing young talent make his request a deserving cause. Addressing the lack of playgrounds and sports facilities is vital for the growth of cricket and other sports in the city. It is an investment in the dreams and aspirations of countless young athletes who, given the right opportunities, could become the future stars of Indian sports. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Shri Dinesh Lad Nurturing Raw Talent Into Finished Product
Dronacharya awardee, Shri Dinesh Lad, graced The Sportz Planet SportSci Summit 2024, Season 1 with his presence at the Radisson Blu near Mumbai International Airport on June 22, 2024. Known for his deep passion for cricket and his role in shaping young talents, Mr. Lad’s humility and warmth resonated with everyone present. During his session, Shri Dinesh Lad warmly acknowledged the achievements of his star pupils, Rohit Sharma who were gearing up to represent India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 final and bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur. Mr. Lad credited their success to their tireless dedication and natural talent, emphasizing that his role as a coach was to guide and support them along their journey. A particularly touching moment came when Shri Lad fondly recalled convincing Rohit Sharma’s uncle to enroll him in his school, foreseeing Rohit’s future as a cricketing star. Assuring Rohit’s uncle about the fees, Mr. Lad’s belief in Rohit’s potential underscored his keen eye for talent and commitment to nurturing young cricketers. Click to find out about The Making Of The Hitman. Equally heartwarming was Shri Dinesh Lad’s gesture towards Shardul Thakur, who faced long daily commutes from Palghar to Borivali for training. Recognizing Shardul’s determination, Mr. Lad opened his home to Thakur, providing a supportive environment where he could focus entirely on improving his cricket skills without the stress of travel. With Shardul Thakur showcasing his clinical bowling display for India across various formats and Rohit Sharma prepared to lead India on the global stage, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 final became not just a display of Rohit’s skills but also a tribute to Shri Dinesh Lad’s mentorship and support. His dedication to nurturing talent continues to shape the future of Indian cricket, inspiring countless young cricketers to chase their dreams. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
The Making Of Hitman. Ft – Shri Dinesh Lad & Rohit Sharma
Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket captain, has had a remarkable journey filled with ups and downs. His path to success was paved with challenges, however the support and mentorship of Shri Dinesh Lad played a crucial role in shaping him into the cricketing icon he is today. Let’s relive this mesmerizing journey of a mentor and his apprentice. Early Days and Initial Struggles In 1985, Shri Dinesh Lad became associated with Swami Vivekanand International School in Borivali, Gorai. The school had no proper ground but that didn’t deter Mr. Lad from nurturing young talent. A pivotal moment came when his son, Siddhesh, joined the school in 1995. Siddhesh’s enthusiasm caught the school owner’s attention, leading to a conversation that set the stage for Mr. Lad’s cricket coaching journey at the school. Also read: The making of the Dronacharya – Ft. Shri Dinesh Lad. Mr. Lad’s first year at the school saw their team suffer a heavy defeat, however his determination to build a strong team never wavered. Soon after the defeat, he organized a camp in Borivali, leading to the discovery of a young boy with remarkable bowling talent named Rohit Sharma. Despite financial constraints, Mr. Lad ensured Rohit could join the school, recognizing his potential. Recognizing and Nurturing Talent Initially promoted as a bowler, Rohit soon showcased his exceptional batting skills during school practice sessions. Mr. Lad quickly adjusted his coaching focus, emphasizing Rohit’s batting abilities. This decision proved pivotal as Rohit excelled in batting, eventually rising through the ranks in the under-14 and under-16 teams. In today’s date there is no batter in international cricket who can time the ball better than Rohit Sharma. Mr. Lad’s coaching philosophy centered on recognizing and nurturing natural talent. He believed in guiding players without forcing them into specific roles, a principle that significantly contributed to Rohit’s development as a cricketer. Overcoming Challenges and Setbacks Rohit Sharma’s journey wasn’t without setbacks. In 2007, he made his debut for India, but his performance fluctuated. From 2009 to 2011, his form declined, culminating in his exclusion from the 2011 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup squad. This period was marked by low scores and a loss of focus on cricket. Deeply affected, Rohit turned to his coach, Mr. Lad for guidance. Mr. Lad, recognizing the need for psychological support, referred him to Dr. Mugdha Bavare, a sports psychologist. This intervention proved crucial in helping Rohit regain his focus and commitment to the sport. The Road to Redemption Post-2011, Rohit’s dedication to cricket intensified. He diligently practiced, focusing on fitness, catching, and honing his skills. Mr. Lad’s mentorship and psychological support played a vital role in this transformation. Rohit’s performance improved significantly, and he consistently remained at the top, never looking back. The Importance of Focus and Dedication Rohit’s journey underscores the importance of focus and dedication in achieving success. Shri Dinesh Lad’s role as a mentor was instrumental in guiding Rohit through his highs and lows. Mr. Lad’s belief in nurturing natural talent, combined with his emphasis on fitness and mental resilience, helped Rohit overcome numerous challenges. A Coach’s Pride From recognizing Rohit’s talent at a young age to guiding him through difficult times, Mr. Lad’s mentorship has been a cornerstone of Rohit’s cricketing journey. His belief in Rohit’s potential, even during the toughest times, was a testament to his dedication as a coach. Rohit Sharma’s journey from a young boy with potential to the captain of the Indian cricket team is a story of resilience, hard work, and the transformative power of mentorship. Shri Dinesh Lad’s guidance and unwavering support helped Rohit navigate the highs and lows of his career, ultimately shaping him into one of cricket’s most celebrated players. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
The Making Of The Dronacharya – Ft. Shri Dinesh Lad
Shri Dinesh Lad‘s journey as a respected cricket coach and Dronacharya Awardee highlights his dedication, resilience, and commitment in nurturing young cricketing talent. His story is not only about his personal ascent but also about the countless young cricketers he has guided and shaped, including the Indian Cricket Team captain Rohit Sharma, all-rounder Shardul Thakur, the Indian domestic cricket stalwart Siddhesh Lad and the Indian origin USA international cricketer Harmeet Singh. Early Life and Struggles Mr. Dinesh Lad’s love affair with cricket began in the bustling locality of Shivaji Park, a place synonymous with Mumbai’s cricketing culture. His journey, however, was far from easy. Coming from a humble background, Mr. Lad faced numerous challenges. His school did not offer cricket and his initial role in the sport was as a stump carrier. It was his sheer passion and determination that led him to approach a senior who also was his friend, who eventually brought him under the mentorship of Achrekar sir. Despite having no equipment and being financially constrained, Lad’s talent was recognized and he was given the essentials to pursue cricket. The Turning Point Mr. Lad’s cricketing career took a significant turn when he was offered a job by Colgate. His commitment to the sport and his ability to balance his duties as a Class 4 railway employee while continuing to play cricket showcased his dedication. It was during his time with the Railways that he began coaching at Prabodhan-Goregaon, where he discovered his knack for mentoring young talents. Coaching and Discovering Rohit Sharma In 1985, Mr. Lad’s association with Swami Vivekanand International School marked the beginning of a new chapter. Starting without a proper ground, Lad’s perseverance saw him organizing cricket camps and coaching aspiring cricketers. It was during one such camp that he discovered a young boy named Rohit Sharma, who would later become a cornerstone of Indian cricket. Despite financial hurdles, Lad ensured Rohit could join the school by collecting contributions and personally funding his admission. Philosophy and Approach Mr. Lad’s coaching philosophy revolves around recognizing and nurturing natural talent. He believes in guiding players to enhance their inherent skills rather than imposing rigid structures. This approach has been pivotal in the development of many cricketers. His emphasis on fitness, proper training, and injury prevention reflects his understanding of modern cricket’s demands. Challenges and Ethics in Coaching Throughout his 28-year coaching career, Mr. Lad has maintained a strong ethical stance, never charging money from the parents or the school. He believes that coaching should be about genuine talent development, not financial transactions. His integrity and honesty have set him apart in a field where commercial interests often overshadow true mentorship. Legacy and Impact Mr. Dinesh Lad’s legacy is defined by the success of his protégés and his contributions to cricket coaching. His ability to identify and nurture talent like Rohit Sharma has earned him widespread respect and admiration. Beyond individual achievements, his impact lies in the countless young cricketers who have benefited from his guidance and wisdom. Also read: What happened when the Modern Day Dronacharya; Shri Dinesh Lad graced The Sportz Planet- SportSciSummit 2024, Season 1. Shri Dinesh Lad’s journey from carrying stumps to becoming a Dronacharya Award-winning coach is a tale of grit, dedication, and a deep love for cricket. His personal struggles, guiding philosophy, and strong ethics have not only defined his career but also paved the way for many young cricketers. Lad’s story is truly inspiring, showing that real success comes from helping and uplifting others. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
SportSci Summit 2024: Rohit Sharma’s Coach Dinesh Lad Inspires Next Gen With Heartfelt Stories And Wisdom
The Radisson Blu near the Mumbai International Airport, played host to The Sportz Planet SportSci Summit 2024 on June 22. The summit had a special guest – Shri Dinesh Lad, a renowned cricket coach revered across the cricketing fraternity. Humble and grounded as ever, Mr. Dinesh Lad’s presence caught everyone’s attention. He interacted with all the attendees, making the event memorable for everyone present. Mr. Lad’s presence was a testament to his dedication to nurturing cricketing talent and his passion for the sport. Mr. Rishi Sutrave, Founder, The Sportz Planet and the visionary behind The SportSci Summit, felicitated Mr. Dinesh Lad with a plaque. This was in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the development of cricketing talents. This gesture highlighted the respect and admiration the cricketing community holds for Shri Lad’s relentless efforts in shaping the careers of many young cricketers. During his session at the summit, Shri Dinesh Lad selflessly credited the achievements of his students, Rohit Sharma, the current Indian Cricket Team Captain and Shardul Thakur, to their hard work and efforts. He humbly mentioned that his coaching was just an additional support to their dedication and talent. Shri Lad, who has trained hundreds of young cricket talents, spoke about the evolution of the game in this technology-driven era. He emphasized the importance of an athlete’s willpower and hard work in reaching the pinnacle of any sport. His insights were a source of inspiration for all aspiring athletes present at the summit. One of the most touching moments of Shri Lad’s session was when he recounted how he convinced Rohit Sharma’s uncle to enroll Rohit in the school where he coached. Recognizing Rohit’s potential as a future cricket megastar, Shri Lad assured Rohit’s uncle not to worry about the fees. This anecdote exemplified Shri Lad’s keen eye for talent and his unwavering support for young cricketers. Another heart-touching moment was when Shri Dinesh Lad accommodated India’s paceman, Shardul Thakur, at his own residence. Thakur faced difficulties traveling every day from Palghar, a district on the outskirts of Mumbai, to Borivali for his cricket training. Recognizing Shardul’s determination and focus, Shri Lad understood that the daily travel was a significant hindrance to his future. By offering his home, Shri Lad ensured that Shardul could concentrate fully on his training without the burden of exhausting commutes. Shri Dinesh Lad’s words of wisdom captivated the audience, keeping them engaged throughout his session. His presence at the summit was invaluable, as he shared tips and insights that could help shape the future of many young athletes. The event was a resounding success, thanks in large part to Shri Lad’s participation and his dedication to the growth of cricket. The Sportz Planet SportSci Summit 2024, Season 1, will forever be remembered as an event where a legend shared his journey, knowledge, and passion for the sport, leaving a lasting impact on all those who attended. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
