Best Cricket Academies in Rajkot 2026
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Rajkot is one of the most important cricket cities in India, and that is not an exaggeration. This mid-sized city in Gujarat's Saurashtra region has produced two of India's most iconic Test cricketers in the modern era — Cheteshwar Pujara, the wall who anchored India's historic Test series wins in Australia, and Ravindra Jadeja, the all-rounder who has been among the most valuable players in world cricket for over a decade. Both learned the fundamentals of their craft on the grounds and pitches of Rajkot, and their success has inspired an entire generation of young cricketers across Saurashtra.
The city's cricket infrastructure received a massive boost with the construction of the Niranjan Shah Stadium, now one of the largest cricket venues in the world and the second-largest by seating capacity in India. This stadium has hosted international matches and brought global attention to Rajkot's cricketing culture. The Saurashtra Cricket Association, headquartered here, runs a well-structured domestic cricket programme that has seen Saurashtra win the Ranji Trophy and consistently compete at the highest level of Indian domestic cricket. The SCA's age-group pathway — from district trials through to state selection — is one of the most organised in western India.
For parents in Rajkot looking to enrol their children in quality cricket coaching, the good news is that the city offers several strong options across different price points. The cost of coaching in Rajkot is significantly lower than in metros like Mumbai or Bangalore, making professional cricket training accessible to a wider range of families. This guide profiles the 8 best cricket academies in Rajkot for 2026, with honest assessments of fees, coaching quality, facilities, and which type of player each academy suits best.
All fee figures are estimates based on best available information as of early 2026. Always confirm directly with the academy before enrolling.
How to Choose a Cricket Academy in Rajkot
Before committing to any academy, take the time to evaluate your options carefully. The right academy depends on your child's age, skill level, ambitions, and your family's budget and logistics. Here are the key factors to consider.
Coaching qualifications matter more than reputation. An NCA (National Cricket Academy) Level 1 or Level 2 certified coach understands age-appropriate training loads, biomechanics of bowling and batting, and structured skill development. In Rajkot, several academies employ coaches who played Ranji Trophy cricket for Saurashtra — playing experience is valuable, but formal coaching qualifications ensure that experience translates into effective teaching. Ask to see the coaching staff's qualifications before enrolling.
The Saurashtra Cricket Association pathway is what matters. The SCA runs a structured age-group tournament system — Under-14, Under-16, Under-19, and Under-23 — and the best academies in Rajkot actively prepare students for SCA district trials and selections. If an academy only runs net sessions without entering students in competitive matches or guiding them toward SCA pathways, it is not preparing your child for serious cricket. Ask specifically: how many alumni have been selected for Saurashtra age-group teams in the last three years?
Batch sizes determine individual attention. Rajkot academies generally have smaller batches than metro city academies, which is an advantage. But still verify the coach-to-student ratio. A batch of 15 to 20 students per coach is manageable. Beyond 25, individual attention drops significantly. Smaller batch sizes are especially important for younger players (under 12) who need more hands-on correction of technique.
Facilities should match the level of training. For beginners, basic nets and open ground are sufficient. For intermediate and advanced players, look for turf pitches, bowling machines, and ideally some form of video analysis. Rajkot's climate — hot and dry for much of the year — means covered or shaded net areas are a significant practical advantage for consistent training.
Competitive match exposure is non-negotiable for serious players. The difference between a player who only practises in nets and one who plays regular competitive matches is enormous. Ask how many organised matches the academy provides per month, and whether those matches are against other academies, clubs, or in SCA-affiliated tournaments.
Location and timing must be practical. The best academy in the world is useless if your child cannot attend consistently. Rajkot traffic during school hours can be challenging in certain areas. Choose an academy with session timings that work around school schedules and a location that allows your child to arrive without exhaustion.
Top 8 Cricket Academies in Rajkot
1. Saurashtra Cricket Association Academy — SCA Stadium
Location: SCA Stadium, Khandheri Road, Rajkot
The Saurashtra Cricket Association Academy is the most direct pipeline to state-level cricket in the region. Operating at the SCA Stadium complex, this academy benefits from institutional backing, access to international-standard infrastructure, and coaches who are embedded in Saurashtra's selection ecosystem. If your child is serious about playing for Saurashtra at the age-group or senior level, this is the single most strategically important academy in the city. The SCA Academy's alumni list includes players who have gone on to represent Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy and several who have been part of IPL franchise development squads.
Coaching Staff: NCA Level 2 and Level 3 certified coaches; former Saurashtra Ranji Trophy players on coaching staff; access to SCA's sports science and fitness support infrastructure
Age Groups: U12 to U19 and senior performance programme (selection by trial)
Fees: Approximately ₹2,500–₹5,000 per month (estimate; SCA occasionally revises fee structure)
Facilities: International-standard turf pitches, professional practice nets, bowling machines, gymnasium access for advanced batches, physiotherapy support, video analysis for senior batches
Timings: Morning sessions (5:30 AM–8:30 AM) and evening sessions (4:00 PM–7:00 PM)
Best For: Advanced players targeting Saurashtra state selection; committed juniors who can clear the competitive trial process
How to Enquire: Visit the SCA official website or enquire directly at the SCA Stadium office; admission is by structured trial
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Jadeja Cricket Academy — Kalavad Road
Location: Kalavad Road, Rajkot
The Jadeja Cricket Academy has established itself as one of Rajkot's most respected private coaching institutions, with a strong focus on developing all-round cricketers. The academy's training philosophy emphasises both batting and bowling from an early age, rather than specialising prematurely — an approach that reflects the all-round cricket culture Saurashtra is increasingly known for. The coaching staff includes former first-class cricketers and qualified coaches who bring a practical, match-oriented approach to training. The academy has a solid track record of producing players who perform well in SCA district-level tournaments.
Coaching Staff: NCA Level 1 and Level 2 certified coaches; coaches with first-class and List A playing experience; dedicated bowling coach for pace and spin
Age Groups: U10 to U19
Fees: Approximately ₹2,000–₹4,000 per month (estimate)
Facilities: Turf and synthetic practice pitches, covered net area, bowling machine, open ground for match simulation, basic fitness equipment
Timings: Morning sessions (6:00 AM–8:30 AM) and evening sessions (4:30 PM–7:00 PM)
Best For: Young players who want well-rounded cricket development; players looking for quality coaching at a mid-range price point
How to Enquire: Visit the academy ground on Kalavad Road during active session hours; walk-in enquiries welcome
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
3. Rajkot Cricket Club Academy — Race Course
Location: Race Course Ground area, Rajkot
Rajkot Cricket Club is one of the oldest cricket institutions in the city, with a heritage that predates many of the newer coaching operations. The club's academy programme combines the advantages of a traditional club setup — competitive matches, peer learning, a deep cricket culture — with structured modern coaching. The Race Course ground provides excellent facilities, and the club actively participates in local and district-level tournaments. For families who value the community aspect of cricket and want their children to grow up in a cricketing environment rather than just attend coaching sessions, RCC is a strong choice.
Coaching Staff: Experienced coaches with decades of involvement in Rajkot club cricket; NCA Level 1 certifications; emphasis on traditional batting and bowling technique
Age Groups: U10 to senior (open)
Fees: Approximately ₹1,800–₹3,500 per month (estimate; club membership may apply separately)
Facilities: Well-maintained ground, practice nets, turf and matting pitches, club amenities, regular inter-club match fixtures
Timings: Morning sessions (6:00 AM–8:30 AM) and evening sessions (4:00 PM–6:30 PM); match days on weekends
Best For: Players who thrive in a traditional club cricket environment; families looking for community and competitive match exposure alongside coaching
How to Enquire: Contact Rajkot Cricket Club directly at the Race Course ground; enquire about junior programme and membership
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
4. Pujara Cricket Academy — University Road
Location: University Road, Rajkot
Named in honour of Rajkot's most famous cricketing son, the Pujara Cricket Academy focuses heavily on batting technique and the kind of patient, disciplined approach to run-scoring that Cheteshwar Pujara himself embodies. The academy places significant emphasis on building a solid defensive technique before expanding the scoring range — an approach that may not produce flashy T20 highlights but develops the kind of technical foundation that holds up under pressure in longer formats and higher-level cricket. The coaching philosophy here is clear: master the basics first, and everything else follows.
Coaching Staff: NCA Level 1 and Level 2 certified coaches; coaches with strong domestic cricket backgrounds; specialist batting coaching modules
Age Groups: U10 to U19
Fees: Approximately ₹2,000–₹4,500 per month (estimate)
Facilities: Quality practice nets, turf pitch access, bowling machine with variable speed settings, video analysis available for senior batches, classroom sessions on match awareness and cricket strategy
Timings: Morning sessions (5:30 AM–8:00 AM) and evening sessions (4:30 PM–7:00 PM)
Best For: Technically-minded batters; players who want to build a strong defensive and technical foundation; families who value a disciplined, process-oriented approach to cricket development
How to Enquire: Visit the academy on University Road; enquire during active session hours or call ahead
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½
5. Rising Star Cricket Academy — 150 Feet Ring Road
Location: 150 Feet Ring Road, Rajkot
Rising Star Cricket Academy has grown steadily over the past several years to become one of the most popular choices for junior cricket coaching in Rajkot's rapidly developing Ring Road corridor. The academy's strength lies in its junior development programme, particularly for the U10 and U12 age groups, where the focus is on building fundamental skills through structured drills and fun-based learning. The coaches understand that at the youngest levels, keeping children engaged and excited about cricket is just as important as technical instruction. Rising Star has produced several players who have gone on to represent their schools and districts in age-group tournaments.
Coaching Staff: NCA Level 1 certified coaches; coaches with experience in school and age-group cricket coaching; assistant coaches for younger batches to maintain low coach-to-student ratios
Age Groups: U8 to U16 (strong junior focus)
Fees: Approximately ₹1,500–₹3,000 per month (estimate)
Facilities: Synthetic and cement practice pitches, nets, open ground space for fielding drills and match practice, basic bowling machine for senior batches
Timings: Morning sessions (6:30 AM–8:30 AM) and evening sessions (4:30 PM–6:30 PM)
Best For: Young beginners aged 7 to 12; families looking for an affordable, well-structured junior programme in the Ring Road area
How to Enquire: Visit the academy ground on 150 Feet Ring Road; contact through local school cricket networks
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
6. Sagar Cricket Academy — Aji Dam Road
Location: Aji Dam Road, Rajkot
Sagar Cricket Academy operates in one of Rajkot's quieter residential areas near the Aji Dam, which gives it the advantage of open space and a less congested training environment compared to academies in the city centre. The academy takes a no-frills, fundamentals-first approach to coaching. There is no glossy marketing or celebrity branding — just solid, consistent coaching delivered by experienced local coaches who know the Rajkot and Saurashtra cricket ecosystem well. Sagar Cricket Academy is particularly strong in developing fast bowlers, which makes it somewhat unusual in a region where batting and spin bowling tend to dominate the coaching landscape.
Coaching Staff: Experienced local coaches with club and district cricket backgrounds; NCA Level 1 certifications; specialist fast bowling coach
Age Groups: U10 to U19
Fees: Approximately ₹1,500–₹2,800 per month (estimate; among the most affordable in Rajkot)
Facilities: Open ground with multiple practice pitches, nets, run-up areas suitable for pace bowling practice, basic fitness equipment
Timings: Morning sessions (6:00 AM–8:00 AM) and evening sessions (5:00 PM–7:00 PM)
Best For: Fast bowlers; budget-conscious families seeking solid fundamental coaching; players in the Aji Dam Road and surrounding residential areas
How to Enquire: Visit the academy ground near Aji Dam Road; well-known in local cricket circles
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½
7. Gujarat Cricket Academy — Bhavnagar Road
Location: Bhavnagar Road, Rajkot
Gujarat Cricket Academy positions itself as a comprehensive cricketing institution that caters to players from across the Saurashtra region, not just Rajkot city. The academy draws students from surrounding towns like Morbi, Gondal, and Wankaner, which gives its training matches a wider pool of playing styles and competition. The coaching programme is structured around seasonal periodisation — pre-season conditioning, in-season skill refinement, and off-season strength building — which is a more scientific approach than many local academies adopt. Gujarat Cricket Academy has also invested in its fielding coaching, recognising that fielding is often the most neglected aspect of junior cricket development in India.
Coaching Staff: NCA Level 2 certified head coach; assistant coaches with district and state-level playing experience; dedicated fielding and fitness coach
Age Groups: U12 to U19 and senior development programme
Fees: Approximately ₹2,500–₹4,500 per month (estimate)
Facilities: Turf and synthetic pitches, professional nets, bowling machine, fielding equipment (catching cradles, slip machines), basic gymnasium, video recording of sessions
Timings: Morning sessions (5:30 AM–8:00 AM) and evening sessions (4:00 PM–6:30 PM)
Best For: Intermediate and advanced players who want structured, periodised training; players from surrounding towns who need a central Rajkot-based academy; anyone wanting to improve fielding skills specifically
How to Enquire: Contact the academy via their social media pages or visit the ground on Bhavnagar Road
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
8. Young Guns Cricket — Kalawad Road
Location: Kalawad Road, Rajkot
Young Guns Cricket is one of Rajkot's newer cricket coaching operations, having established itself within the last few years. What it lacks in history, it compensates for with energy, modern coaching methods, and a strong emphasis on white-ball cricket skills. The academy's sessions include specific modules on T20 batting, death bowling variations, and power-hitting — skills that are increasingly relevant given the growth of franchise cricket and the opportunities it presents for young players. Young Guns also runs regular intra-academy T20 tournaments, which give students match practice in pressure situations and help coaches identify players who perform well under competitive conditions.
Coaching Staff: Young, energetic coaching staff; NCA Level 1 certifications; coaches with experience in local T20 league cricket; emphasis on modern limited-overs skills
Age Groups: U10 to U19
Fees: Approximately ₹1,800–₹3,500 per month (estimate)
Facilities: Synthetic pitches, nets, open ground, basic bowling machine, regular intra-academy tournaments
Timings: Morning sessions (6:00 AM–8:30 AM) and evening sessions (4:30 PM–7:00 PM)
Best For: Players interested in white-ball cricket and T20 skills; young cricketers who enjoy competitive, high-energy training environments
How to Enquire: Visit the academy on Kalawad Road; active social media presence for updates on trials and batch openings
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½
Fees Comparison Table
All figures are estimates. Verify directly with each academy before enrolling.
| Academy | Location | Est. Monthly Fee | Facilities Rating | Best Age Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCA Academy | SCA Stadium | ₹2,500–₹5,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | U12–U19 |
| Jadeja Cricket Academy | Kalavad Road | ₹2,000–₹4,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | U10–U19 |
| Rajkot Cricket Club | Race Course | ₹1,800–₹3,500 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | U10–Senior |
| Pujara Cricket Academy | University Road | ₹2,000–₹4,500 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | U10–U19 |
| Rising Star Cricket Academy | 150 Feet Ring Road | ₹1,500–₹3,000 | ⭐⭐⭐ | U8–U16 |
| Sagar Cricket Academy | Aji Dam Road | ₹1,500–₹2,800 | ⭐⭐⭐ | U10–U19 |
| Gujarat Cricket Academy | Bhavnagar Road | ₹2,500–₹4,500 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | U12–U19 |
| Young Guns Cricket | Kalawad Road | ₹1,800–₹3,500 | ⭐⭐⭐ | U10–U19 |
Choosing Between Academies: A Parent Guide
If your child is a complete beginner (age 7–11): Start with Rising Star Cricket Academy on 150 Feet Ring Road or Rajkot Cricket Club at Race Course. Both offer structured junior programmes that prioritise building fundamental skills and keeping young children enthusiastic about cricket. At this stage, the priority is developing hand-eye coordination, basic batting and bowling technique, and a genuine love for the game — not intense competition.
If your child is committed and progressing (age 12–15): Coaching quality and competitive match exposure now matter significantly. Jadeja Cricket Academy and Pujara Cricket Academy both offer strong intermediate-level coaching with different philosophical strengths — Jadeja for all-round development, Pujara for technical batting excellence. Gujarat Cricket Academy's periodised training approach is also excellent for this stage.
If your child is an advanced player targeting state cricket (age 15+): The Saurashtra Cricket Association Academy is the clear first choice. Its direct institutional connection to SCA's selection ecosystem is unmatched. If your child can clear the trial, this academy provides the most direct pathway to Saurashtra age-group and senior squads.
If you are on a tight budget: Sagar Cricket Academy and Rising Star Cricket Academy both offer solid coaching at the lowest price points in the city — ₹1,500 per month is remarkably affordable for structured cricket coaching. Do not equate cost with quality; many of Rajkot's finest cricketers developed on modest grounds with dedicated coaches.
If your child is interested in white-ball cricket: Young Guns Cricket's emphasis on T20 skills and regular intra-academy tournaments makes it a good fit for players drawn to limited-overs cricket.
How to Get Selected for Saurashtra Cricket Association Age-Group Teams
The pathway to representing Saurashtra in age-group cricket runs through a structured system that begins at the district level. Here is how it works in practice.
Step 1 — School and local tournaments. Rajkot's inter-school cricket competitions are the first platform where young talent becomes visible. Ensure your child participates actively in school cricket and any SCA-affiliated local tournaments. Performance at this level is the foundation of everything that follows.
Step 2 — District-level trials. The SCA conducts district trials for Under-14, Under-16, and Under-19 age groups, typically before the start of each domestic season. Players who perform well in school and academy cricket are eligible to appear. Most academies in this guide will inform students about trial dates and help prepare them.
Step 3 — District representation. Selected players represent their district in SCA inter-district tournaments. Consistent performance across matches — not one-off brilliance — is what catches the eye of state selectors.
Step 4 — State age-group selection. Based on inter-district tournament performances and subsequent selection camps, the SCA picks its state Under-14, Under-16, and Under-19 squads. These teams participate in BCCI national age-group tournaments like the Vijay Merchant Trophy (U16) and Cooch Behar Trophy (U19).
Step 5 — Patience and consistency. Saurashtra's cricket culture values grit and determination — qualities embodied by players like Pujara and Jadeja. The players who succeed are those who perform consistently across multiple seasons, not those who show flashes of talent and then disappear. Build the habit of scoring runs and taking wickets in matches, not just looking impressive in practice.
For more on coaching pathways and qualifications, see our guide to how to become a cricket coach in India. If your child is preparing for national-level trials, our U19 cricket trials guide has detailed information on the process.
Also read: best cricket academies in Ahmedabad 2026 | best cricket academies in Surat 2026
More on CricJosh: best cricket bats under 3000 | how to become a cricket coach
FAQ
What is the right age to start cricket coaching in Rajkot?
Children can begin fun-based, introductory cricket coaching from age 7 or 8. At this stage, the focus should be on basic motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and enjoyment of the sport. Structured technical coaching becomes more productive from age 10 to 11. For families with state-level ambitions, enrolling by age 10 to 12 gives your child enough time to develop skills and gain competitive experience before the critical Under-14 and Under-16 selection cycles.
How much do cricket academies charge in Rajkot?
Monthly fees in Rajkot range from approximately ₹1,500 for community-level academies like Rising Star and Sagar Cricket Academy to around ₹5,000 for the SCA Academy's advanced programmes. Most established mid-range academies charge between ₹2,000 and ₹4,000 per month. Rajkot is significantly more affordable than metros like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bangalore, making quality cricket coaching accessible to a wider range of families. Always confirm current fees directly with the academy — these are estimates as of early 2026.
Is the SCA Academy the best in Rajkot?
For players specifically targeting Saurashtra state cricket, the SCA Academy's direct connection to the state association's selection structure makes it uniquely valuable. However, admission is by competitive trial and it focuses on players already performing at a strong level. For beginners or early-intermediate players, Jadeja Cricket Academy, Pujara Cricket Academy, or Rising Star Cricket Academy may be more appropriate starting points that can prepare your child for SCA Academy trials in the future.
Do Rajkot cricket academies provide equipment?
Most academies provide shared practice equipment — helmets, pads, gloves, and stumps — for net sessions. Players are generally expected to bring their own bat, particularly at intermediate and advanced levels. For beginners, academies will usually provide everything needed for the first few months. Coaches will guide families on when and what to purchase. For bat recommendations, see our guide to best cricket bats under 3000.
How does Rajkot's cricket development compare to other Gujarat cities?
Rajkot has historically been the strongest cricket city in Gujarat alongside Ahmedabad. The Saurashtra Cricket Association's success in the Ranji Trophy and the emergence of international stars like Pujara and Jadeja have created a deep cricket culture. Compared to Ahmedabad, Rajkot offers more affordable coaching with a similarly strong pathway to state-level cricket. The SCA's organisational structure is well-regarded, and the presence of a world-class stadium has further boosted the city's cricketing infrastructure. For comparisons with other Gujarat cities, see our guides to cricket academies in Ahmedabad and cricket academies in Surat.
Fee estimates are based on best available information as of early 2026. Always confirm directly with the academy before enrolling. CricJosh does not have commercial relationships with any academies listed.
Also read: U19 Cricket Trials Guide | How to Become a Cricket Coach in India
Cricket Academies in Nearby Cities
Looking for more options? Check out cricket academies in these nearby cities:
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Rahul Sharma
Expert in: How To GuidesRahul Sharma has played district-level cricket in Mumbai for 8 years and has personally tested more than 50 bats, pads, gloves, and helmets across different price ranges. He joined CricJosh to help Indian club cricketers make smarter equipment choices without overpaying. His reviews are based on real match and net session use, not sponsored samples.
Why trust this review: Rahul has used every product in this review across multiple match and net sessions before writing a word. He buys equipment at retail price and accepts no free samples.
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