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
