Rajasthan to launch grassroots development programme

IPL franchise will be holding trials from October 11

The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan Royals are set to launch their first grassroots programme. The ‘Royal Colts’ have been set up to unearth fresh talent and provide them an opportunity to make a mark in the cricketing world.

The franchise will be holding trials from October 11 here to discover new talent in the age group of 16-19 (Men’s). A Royal Colts team will be built around the selected young faces. “At the Rajasthan Royals, we are passionate about developing talent. Since the start of the IPL, we have invested in youth and subsequently launched many players onto the international stage,” said the franchise’s head of cricket Zubin Bharucha.

The target is to attract both local talent in Rajasthan as well as players in the age group of 16-19 from across India.

The panel of scouts, headed by Zubin Bharucha, includes Royals coaches Amol Mazumdar and Sairaj Bahutule along with couple of local selectors who will shortlist aspiring players from a pool of registered candidates.

The final Royal Colts team consisting of 16 players will then be announced. The trials will be held at the Neerja Modi School here.

“The idea is to find fresh young talent and make a team which would compete under the banner of Royal Colts. The team will play in various reputed tournaments and competitions across the country and abroad,” said Vice President, Rajasthan Royals, Rajeev Khanna.

The selected team will then be trained and get to compete with junior teams in India and from around the world.