Ranji Trophy veteran inspires youth with free cricket training in Hoshiarpur

Former Ranji Trophy player and retired banker Vijay Kumar, fondly known as ‘Gatta,’ continues to follow his passion for cricket by providing free coaching to young players in Hoshiarpur.

Coming from humble beginnings, Vijay earned the nickname ‘Gatta’ from his father’s small business — selling sugar candy (gatta) on the local streets, carried on a bamboo stick. Despite these humble beginnings, Vijay’s journey in cricket has been remarkable.

He began playing cricket in school and later competed at the national level. During his college years, he was part of the Panjab University cricket team, captained by the legendary Kapil Dev from 1978 to 1980. He then represented Punjab in the prestigious Ranji Trophy during the 1980-81 season under the captaincy of Yashpal Sharma.

In 1982, Vijay Kumar joined the Bank of India, where he worked until his retirement in 2018. Alongside his job, he kept his love for cricket alive by coaching young talents in his free time.

To honour the memory of one of his young trainees who passed away too soon, Vijay founded the Sidhartha Cricket Academy. The academy operates at DAV Senior Secondary School, Hoshiarpur, with support from DAVCMC and its president, Dr Anoop Kumar, who provided the ground.

The academy offers free coaching in batting, bowling, fielding, and other cricket skills. Players are not charged any fees and cricket equipment is also provided free of cost. Vijay is supported by senior players Neeraj Sood, Arun Gupta, Gurvinder, Paras Jain and Arun Sharma, while physical trainer Jarnail Singh Pabla ensures the fitness of the young athletes.

Gatta says his goal is to promote sportsmanship, keep youth away from drugs and share his experience with the next generation. Through this selfless work, he quietly inspires and nurtures the future of Indian cricket.