Pursuing a career in cricket requires not just talent, but resources, training, and support — especially when it comes to coaching, equipment, travel, and academics. Fortunately, several scholarships and sponsorship programs in India help ease the financial burden on young and deserving cricketers.
This blog covers the top cricket scholarships in India, including their eligibility criteria, benefits, and how to apply.
Why Scholarships Matter for Cricketers
Cricket training in India can cost anywhere from ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000 per year — excluding equipment, nutrition, travel, and match fees. Scholarships help in:
Accessing quality coaching
Affording better gear and match opportunities
Continuing education alongside cricket
Reducing family’s financial burden
Building a performance-oriented cricket career without financial stress
Top Scholarships for Cricketers in India
1. SG Scholarship (Sanspareils Greenlands)
One of India’s most recognized cricket gear brands, SG supports promising cricketers through its annual scholarship program.
Eligibility: Age 10–19, performance in school/district/state cricket
Benefits: Free cricket kits, coaching support, possible mentorship
How to Apply: Submit performance details, academy recommendation, and personal profile to SG via email (check sgcricket.in)
📌 Preference given to underprivileged and rural talents.
2. GoSports Foundation – Athlete Scholarship
Though not cricket-specific, GoSports supports athletes from Olympic and non-mainstream sports including cricket in select cases.
Eligibility: Strong national/state-level performance, aged 13–21
Benefits: Funding for training, travel, education support, mentorship
How to Apply: Apply during their scholarship cycle via gosportsfoundation.in
🧠 Selection is merit-based and focuses on both talent and discipline.
3. Khelo India Talent Development Scheme
Run by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, this scheme identifies and trains young sports talent across India.
Eligibility: Must be shortlisted via Khelo India trials/camps; performance in state/national tournaments
Benefits: ₹5 lakh annual support for 8 years, coaching, residential training
How to Apply: Through trials or state recommendations on sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in
🏅 Cricket is a key sport under Khelo India’s structure.
4. Reliance Foundation Youth Sports (RFYS)
RFYS supports school and college cricketers through tournaments, training, and scholarships.
Eligibility: Outstanding performers in RFYS tournaments
Benefits: Scholarships, training camps, equipment, and academic mentoring
How to Apply: Participate in RFYS tournaments or nominate via school on rfyouthsports.com
5. IDBI Federal Quest for Excellence – Cricket Scholarships
In collaboration with former cricketer Rahul Dravid and KOOH Sports.
Eligibility: 12–18 years, consistent performance at state/district level
Benefits: Financial assistance, access to top academies, mentorship
How to Apply: Applications usually open via KOOH Sports channels or partner academies
6. Private Cricket Academies with Scholarships
Many reputed cricket academies in India offer merit-based fee waivers or training scholarships:
Sehwag Cricket Academy
MS Dhoni Cricket Academy
Sonnet Club (Delhi)
Just Cricket Academy (Bangalore)
Karnataka Institute of Cricket (KIOC)
📞 You can call or email the academy directly with your performance portfolio for scholarship inquiry.
7. State Cricket Associations – Talent Funding
Some State Associations offer internal scholarships or player development funding to promising youth in:
Maharashtra
Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA)
Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA)
Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA)
📝 Contact your district/state association office for current openings and trials.
How to Strengthen Your Scholarship Application
To increase your chances of selection:
Tips for Parents & Players
Apply to multiple scholarships — don’t wait for just one
Keep a folder of updated performance records
Record match clips and training footage regularly
Maintain academic discipline too — some scholarships need it
Always check for deadlines and documents on official websites
Final Thoughts
Talent should never be limited by affordability. With the right performance and preparation, scholarships can unlock opportunities for any aspiring cricketer, regardless of background.
“A strong mindset and the right support system can take you from local grounds to the national arena.”
Looking for Academy-Based Scholarships? Start Here.
Visit careerincricket.com to explore cricket academies offering merit-based scholarships, affordable training options, and exposure programs for young players.
🌟 Special Note for Aspiring Cricketers
We’re excited to share that Career in Cricket will soon launch its own Scholarship Program, designed specifically to support talented but under-resourced players.
This initiative will cover full coaching fees, cricket equipment costs, and performance mentorship for selected candidates across India. Whether you're from a small town or a metro city, if you have the skill and determination, we want to support your journey.
→ Stay tuned to careerincricket.com and our official social media channels to be among the first to apply.
→ Because your dreams deserve the opportunity to grow — without limits.
🎯 Let your talent find the right platform — without financial barriers.
