Delhi Capitals Launch 1st Gulf Cricket Academy in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Jeddah Becomes Delhi Capitals Academy’s First Centre in the Gulf Region

Delhi Capitals Cricket Academy has taken another significant step in its global expansion journey by launching its first academy in the Gulf region, opening a new centre in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The move reinforces the franchise’s commitment to nurturing young cricket talent beyond traditional cricketing nations and building a worldwide network of player development pathways.

With this expansion, Saudi Arabia becomes the fifth overseas destination in Delhi Capitals’ growing academy ecosystem, joining the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States alongside its strong presence in India.

Strategic Partnership with JSC Sports

The Jeddah academy will operate in partnership with JSC Sports, recognized as the first international cricket academy in the city. The academy currently trains more than 50 boys and girls aged between five and seventeen, offering structured coaching across multiple age groups and skill levels.

Through this collaboration, Delhi Capitals will introduce its internationally recognized coaching curriculum, technical training framework, and player development philosophy to aspiring cricketers in Saudi Arabia. The initiative aims to create a professional environment where young athletes can develop their skills while gaining exposure to global cricketing standards.

World-Class Training and Development Opportunities

Players enrolled at the academy will benefit from access to ICC-certified coaches, high-performance training facilities, advanced coaching methodologies, and performance-tracking systems. The programme will also include specialized coaching camps, exchange opportunities, and integration into the wider Delhi Capitals Academy network.

This globally connected structure will allow young cricketers in Saudi Arabia to experience the same developmental standards followed across Delhi Capitals academies worldwide, helping them prepare for higher levels of competitive cricket.

Supporting Cricket’s Rapid Growth in Saudi Arabia

The launch comes at a time when cricket is witnessing remarkable growth across Saudi Arabia. Backed by the country’s ambitious Vision 2030 programme, significant investments are being made in sports infrastructure and youth development initiatives.

As cricket continues to attract increasing participation among young athletes, the Delhi Capitals-JSC Sports partnership aims to contribute to grassroots development and create clearer pathways for aspiring players. The initiative is expected to play an important role in strengthening the sport’s foundation in the Kingdom while encouraging broader participation among both boys and girls.

Delhi Capitals’ Long-Term Global Vision

Speaking on the expansion, Delhi Capitals CEO Sunil Gupta emphasized the franchise’s commitment to building an interconnected global cricket ecosystem.

“The launch of our first academy in the Middle East is another important step in the long-term vision of the Delhi Capitals Academy. Our objective has always been to create opportunities for young players regardless of geography and provide them access to high-quality cricket development programmes. Saudi Arabia is a rapidly growing sporting nation, and we are delighted to partner with JSC Sports to help grow the game at the grassroots level.”

His comments highlight Delhi Capitals’ ambition to become more than just a cricket franchise by investing in the future generation of players across multiple continents.

JSC Sports’ Growing Impact on Saudi Cricket

JSC Sports has already established itself as a key contributor to Saudi Arabia’s cricket ecosystem. Around ten of its trainees have gone on to represent the country across various national age-group teams, demonstrating the academy’s ability to identify and develop emerging talent.

The academy’s girls’ team achieved national recognition after winning the Saudi National Games 2024 title. Additionally, JSC Sports has worked closely with the Saudi Cricket Federation, including hosting selection trials for the Saudi Men’s National Team.

Jazim Haris, Head of Operations at JSC Sports, expressed confidence that the partnership will elevate cricket development opportunities in the region.

“Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in sport under Vision 2030, and cricket is growing rapidly. Partnering with Delhi Capitals gives young players access to professional coaching, international standards, and a clear pathway for development. We are excited to create new opportunities for aspiring cricketers in Jeddah.”

A Growing Global Network

With the addition of the Jeddah centre, Delhi Capitals Cricket Academy now operates 13 centres across five countries. The network includes seven academies in India and six international academies spread across the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States, and Saudi Arabia.

The expanding footprint allows for greater exchange of coaching expertise, international exposure for young players, and the sharing of best practices across regions. It also reflects Delhi Capitals’ broader strategy of establishing itself as a leading force in global cricket development.

Building Cricket’s Future Beyond Borders

The launch of the Jeddah academy is more than just another expansion for Delhi Capitals. It represents a commitment to taking cricket to new markets, developing young talent, and contributing to the sport’s global growth.

As Saudi Arabia continues to emerge as an important destination in international sport, the partnership between Delhi Capitals and JSC Sports could play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of cricketers from the Gulf region. By combining world-class coaching with local enthusiasm for the game, the initiative promises to create new opportunities and inspire future stars of cricket.

— By Sports Desk