NEW DELHI: Asserting that India has the ability to stage large-scale global events, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently said the country is committed to host the Olympics in 2036.
“It is India’s dream to host the 2036 Olympics, and we are making preparations for that,” Modi said in his address to the nation from the ramparts of Red Fort on the 78th Independence Day.
Gallant Sports, being a growing force in the sports landscape has reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s goals and also providing a boost to India’s 2036 Olympics hosting hopes.
Talking exclusively to 9 Cricket, Nasir Ali CEO of Gallant Sports shared his journey, views and aspirations towards making India – A Sports Giant.
Highlighting the country’s improving infrastructure and sports facilities key for a successful Indian bid, Nasir Ali stressed over providing affordable facilities on grassroots in the interview.
Here are excerpts from the interview with Nasir Ali
9 Cricket: Can you tell us more about the vision and mission of Gallant Sports, and how it aims to transform the sports and fitness landscape in India?
NA: When I founded Gallant Sports in 2016, my vision was clear: to provide top-notch sports facilities to schools at the most affordable prices, ensuring the best playability and maximum durability. As we grew, I quickly learned that scaling up involved navigating the complex world of finance, administration, compliance, and operations. Despite the challenges, our mission remained steadfast—to become the largest sports infrastructure company in India and Southeast Asia. Our focus is on empowering India’s sports ecosystem by creating world-class infrastructure for government, educational institutions, and corporate sectors, which continues to drive us forward.
9 Cricket: What inspired you, Nasir Ali, to start Gallant Sports, and what drives your passion for revolutionizing sports infrastructure in India?
NA: My inspiration to start Gallant Sports came from a deep passion for improving the way India views and engages with sports. When India won its first individual Olympic gold in 2008, it ignited a desire in me to contribute to building world-class sports infrastructure. The initial focus was on delivering affordable facilities to schools. However, as we expanded, I faced the ‘non-glamorous’ aspects of entrepreneurship—finance, administration, and compliance. These challenges pushed me to grow, adapt, and become more resilient. I learned that true passion is about more than just dreams; it involves grit, determination, and adaptability. This journey fuels my commitment to revolutionizing sports infrastructure in India.
9 Cricket: Could you walk us through the journey of Gallant Sports from its inception to its current status as a leader in sports infrastructure and fitness in India?
NA: Gallant Sports began with a simple yet powerful goal: to provide affordable, high-quality sports facilities for schools. Initially, I was deeply passionate about delivering these facilities with the best playability and durability. However, as we scaled, I encountered the complexities of running a growing business—finance, administration, and compliance. These challenges were overwhelming at times but forced me to grow and adapt. Today, Gallant Sports stands as a leader in the industry, managing over 10 sports centers and completing projects in over 200 schools. We continue to focus on creating world-class sports infrastructure and fostering a vibrant sports culture.
9 Cricket: How is Gallant Sports aligning its efforts with India’s aspiration to become the world’s best sports-playing nation by the Olympics 2036?
NA: Aligning with India’s aspiration to excel by the Olympics 2036 involves more than just building state-of-the-art facilities. It requires integrating advanced technology, sustainable materials, and AI-driven systems for athlete safety. As Gallant Sports grows, we are committed to creating injury-free, world-class sports infrastructure across India. Our projects are designed to support community use and maintain high standards of playability. The challenges we face, including navigating the complexities of large-scale operations, have strengthened our resolve and adaptability, enabling us to contribute effectively to this national aspiration.
9 Cricket: In your view, how has the sports culture in India evolved over the years, and what role has Gallant Sports played in this evolution?
NA: The evolution of sports culture in India has been remarkable, with increased visibility for sports beyond cricket, such as football, kabaddi, badminton, and wrestling. The rise of leagues and success stories of athletes have contributed to a more diverse sports culture. Gallant Sports has played a significant role in this evolution by providing high-quality, affordable sports facilities and creating multi-sport arenas under Gallant Play. These efforts are not only promoting fitness but also helping to build a supportive sports community. My journey has taught me that true growth happens when we embrace challenges and adapt, contributing to a richer and more inclusive sports culture.
9 Cricket: What do you see as the future of sports in India, and how is Gallant Sports preparing to contribute to this future?
NA: The future of sports in India is promising, with a growing emphasis on a diverse range of sports and increased investment in infrastructure. Gallant Sports is preparing for this future by expanding our manufacturing capabilities and increasing our presence in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. We are focused on developing multi-sport arenas that promote health, fitness, and social integration. The challenges we’ve faced have taught us the importance of adaptability and grit, essential for contributing to the evolving sports landscape and fostering a vibrant sporting culture.
9 Cricket: How has the “Make in India” initiative impacted Gallant Sports’ operations and growth, particularly with the start of manufacturing athletic tracks and interlocking tiles?
NA: The “Make in India” initiative has had a profound impact on Gallant Sports, especially with our move to domestically manufacture athletic tracks and interlocking tiles. This initiative has allowed us to shift from relying on costly European imports to producing high-quality, affordable sports surfaces locally. By partnering with domestic and international raw material manufacturers, we are able to offer durable, injury-free sports solutions tailored to the Indian market. This transition not only supports the “Make in India” mission but also enhances our operational efficiency and contributes to the growth of the domestic manufacturing sector.
9 Cricket: How does Gallant Sports promote sports within communities, and what initiatives are in place to make sports accessible and affordable for diverse demographics?
NA: Gallant Sports is dedicated to promoting sports within communities by creating affordable, high-quality sports facilities accessible at the district level. Our multi-sport facilities, under the Gallant Play brand, cater to all age groups and demographics, providing a platform for everyone to engage in sports. These initiatives are designed to foster a love for physical activity and build a supportive sports community. My experience has shown me that embracing the challenges of entrepreneurship, including navigating complex operational aspects, is key to making a meaningful impact and ensuring that sports are accessible to all.
9 Cricket: Can you elaborate on the cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices that Gallant Sports integrates into its sports infrastructure solutions?
NA: Gallant Sports integrates cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices into our infrastructure solutions. We use 100% recyclable, permeable turf that promotes water conservation and reduces environmental impact. Our dynamic bases support groundwater recharge through rainwater harvesting systems. These innovations are crucial for creating a sustainable future for sports infrastructure in India. The journey of managing these technological advancements and sustainable practices has taught me the value of resilience and adaptability, reinforcing our commitment to environmental stewardship and excellence.
9 Cricket: What measures does Gallant Sports take to promote an inclusive sports culture that breaks barriers of age, gender, and ability, and how successful have these initiatives been?
NA: At Gallant Sports, promoting an inclusive sports culture is a priority. We design our facilities to be accessible to everyone, incorporating features like ramps, wide doorways, and specialized equipment for athletes with disabilities. Gender-neutral changing rooms and adaptive sports programs ensure that all individuals can participate. We also organize women-centric leagues and events to support female athletes. These measures are making a significant impact, helping to break down barriers and create a truly inclusive sports environment. My journey has shown me that true growth in this area comes from embracing challenges and adapting to meet diverse needs.
Bengaluru: In her third season for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Renuka Singh Thakur has truly come into her own, claiming 10 wickets in just seven matches so far. From humble beginnings in her village, playing with a cloth ball, to becoming India’s go-to fast bowler, her journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Cricket wasn’t just a sport for Renuka; it was the unfulfilled dream of her late father, one she took upon herself to achieve despite all odds.
“I hadn’t seen much cricket as a kid, it was just a hobby, I don’t know how it came. I just liked playing. And there was a rule in my village that we used to play with a cloth ball, so you have to throw it fast, otherwise it doesn’t go far. So that’s how I became a fast bowler. I didn’t talk much about my dad with my mom, then one day she told me that it was his hobby. He wanted at least one of his children to play. So, I started taking it seriously and I think cricket probably came about for this reason, as it was my dad’s dream,” she explained.
Renuka’s path to success was anything but easy. She left her village to join a cricket academy, steadily climbing the ranks. However, when she thought she was on track to make it big, she was dropped from the U-19 team, a moment that hit her hard.
“There were many things at that time, like in my family and I was also dropped from the game. My brother also had an accident, so I couldn’t understand how to get out of it. But I liked taking challenges, and after being dropped from the U-19 team, I asked myself how I could prove them wrong. If I perform well. So, I worked very hard after that.”
That relentless drive paid off when she made her India debut against Australia in October 2021. And in 2023, RCB picked her for the inaugural WPL season. Though she managed just one wicket in her debut season, she never stopped learning. Seeking wisdom from the best, she turned to Jasprit Bumrah for advice on handling pressure.
“I had a long conversation with him after the WPL. I was feeling like I had taken on too much pressure, so I asked him how to deal with it. He told me that the more matches you play, the more you’ll get used to it. The more people watch you, the more pressure increases. But how you handle it matters,” she revealed.
Now, back at her best, Renuka has 10 wickets to her name and held the purple cap at various points in the season. Playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the WPL has been a thrilling experience for her.
“I’m lucky to be playing for RCB because the fans are so good. When we go to the stadium, the whole stadium chants RCB. I like it when the crowd chants our name, it gives us a push. But, overall, Women’s cricket has grown a lot in the past few years. At this time, there are so many facilities, the money has increased, and so many people can see a career in this. When I go home too, little kids play in the village, so it feels good when they come and say, ‘Didi, I want to be like you’. That feeling a person is growing because of me, that’s incomparable,” she signed off.
India batter Shubman Gill has signed an agreement to represent MRF, a homegrown tyre manufacturing company, to use their bat going forward.
The first semi-final of Champions Trophy 2025 between India and Australia will be the first day for Gill mark the commencement of batting with MRF bats as a part of this deal.
When he walks out to bat, Gill will be joining an elite list of endorsers that also includes Virat Kohli and has a strong legacy.
It is understood that the formalities are completed and brings to end a long association the right-hander had with CEAT who signed him during his India U-19 days.
Gill’s brand game is bustling as the 25-year-old has deals in place with Nike, Mercedes, Dior, Coca Cola, Beats by Dre, Tata Capital, Bajaj Allianz, Casio and My11Circle. The deal with Apple, for their product Beats, was a first in the ecosystem as Gill became the first sportsperson from India to be their ambassador last year.
The new MRF deal makes him a part of the thriving legacy for the tyre manufacturer with Kohli currently in the list and the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, Steve Waugh, AB de Villiers, and Shikhar Dhawan sporting the red logo on their bat in the past.
The much-awaited T20 International tri series for the deaf kicked off with a grand inaugural ceremony at Karnail Singh Stadium in New Delhi on 2 March 2025. The International deaf cricket teams of India, South Africa and Australia will be contesting in the action-packed tri-series hosted by the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) from 2 to 8 March 2025.
The Indian deaf cricket squad, selected by the All-India Men’s Selection Committee, is led by the captaincy of Virender Singh. The Men in Blue geared up for the major tournament with extensive training and practice sessions under guidance of Coach Dev Dutt and Assistant Coach Susheel Gupta. Coach Dev Dutt expressed confidence on the seasoned cricketers of the Indian squad and extended gratitude to IDCA for their support in organizing and hosting the series.
Speaking about the tournament, President of IDCA, Sumit Jain, said, “This tri-series holds special significance as it showcases the true spirit of the game and will be a nail-biting contest between the deaf cricket teams of three major cricketing nations. While my best wishes are with players from all the teams, I am particularly excited to witness some stellar performances from our Indian squad. This is a major opportunity for our players to establish the team as one of the bests in the world.”
The opening ceremony of the tournament was graced by the august presence of Chief Guests Sakshi Malik – Olympic Medallist and Padma Bhushan awardee, Kaustubh Mani – General Secretary of NRSA, Anand Mohan – IRTS, Sr. DGM & Sports Officer, Delhi Division, Northern Railway, and Special Guest Harsh Vardhan, IPS, DCP, Central District.
Welcoming the players from all the teams and the dignitaries present during the occasion, IDCA Patron Reena Jain Malhotra said, “I have been associated with IDCA as a patron since its inception, and today we are proud to have our presence in almost 20 states across India. Our endeavor has always been to provide a platform for talented hearing-impaired players to develop their skills in cricket, play in national matches and represent India in international tournaments like this.”
Reena Jain further extended gratitude to Jay Shah – Chairman, ICC, BCCI members and all IDCA members for their unwavering support. She also thanked Chief Guest Sakshi Malik for being at the inauguration ceremony to motivate the players and the supporters and partners who have expressed faith in IDCA’s endeavor to promote disability sports.
Sakshi Malik – Olympic Medallist and Padma Bhushan awardee, said, “I am grateful to IDCA for inviting me to witness such a grand tournament. I always take joy in attending any sporting event and promote sports across the country. I wish bests to all the players and hope they have a wonderful tournament ahead.”
On the occasion, IDCA CEO Roma Balwani, said, “This is a massive platform for the cricketers from all the three teams to showcase their outstanding performance and re-establish their nation as one of the bests in the game. With all the players geared up for the highly anticipated actions, I am looking forward for an exciting tournament that will further elevate the standard of deaf cricket in India. Tournaments like this continue to break barriers and create opportunities for hearing-impaired cricketers from across boundaries.”
The T20 International tri series commenced with the opening match between India and South Africa and will feature six league matches before culminating in an exciting final on 8 March 2025. Following the Tri-Series, the Indian Deaf Cricket team will be playing a 3-match ODI series with Australia from 10 to 12 March.
Eminent Guests of Honor who were present during the commencement ceremony included Surinder Khanna – Former Indian Cricketer, Alok Sharma, ex Education Chairman, MCD, Delhi, Farida Katgara – Managing Director, Jeena & Company, Vipun Jai – Director, Ethics Group, Mr. Keku Gazdar – CEO, Aarohan Communications, Anil George – Actor. Known for his performance in the film Uri, The Surgical Strike, Ajay Swami – Vamdev Construction & Developers, Pratik Puri – Head of Cricket Academies, Delhi Capitals, Kamal Jeet & Kunal Gupta – Hero MotoCorp, and Jitender Tanwar – Stadium in charge.
Squad India Deaf: Virender Singh – Captain (Himachal Pradesh), Umar Ashraf-WK (Jammu & Kashmir), Abhishek Singh (West Bengal), Akash Singh (Haryana), Yashwanth Naidu (Andhra Pradesh), Sanju Sharma (Rajasthan), Santosh Kr. Mohapatra (Odisha), Kuldeep Singh (Haryana), Vivek Kumar (Haryana), Sudarsun E (Tamil Nadu), Krishna Gowda-WK) (Maharashtra), M. Shramith, (Karnataka), Sibun Nanda (Odisha), Ankit Jangir (Rajasthan), Sharik Majeed (Jammu & Kashmir).
Support Staff: Viral Jain – Manager, Dev Dutt – Coach, Susheel Gupta – Assistant Coach, Imran Ali – Trainer, Arif Khan – Physio & Sharad Mudgal – Interpreter (ISL), Ravi Kant Bhatt – Batting Coach
Cricket News8 months ago
Featured News2 months ago
Cricket News7 months ago
Cricket News9 months ago
Cricket News9 months ago
Cricket News9 months ago
Cricket News9 months ago
Cricket News8 months ago