In an exclusive interview with PakPassion, Dr. Tom Brown, Managing Director, and Co-founder of SACA, sheds light on the pressing issues faced by numerous British cricketers of South Asian heritage within the County Cricket circuit.                                                                                                                                    

By Saj Sadiq (19th April 2024)

Amidst concerns regarding racism and cultural barriers, South Asian cricketers in Britain have long grappled with unequal opportunities in professional cricket. In response, the South Asian Cricket Academy (SACA) was founded to tackle this disparity head-on.

The journey began with a PhD study focused on unraveling the barriers faced by British South Asian players in breaking through the talent pathway to professional cricket. This research laid the foundation for SACA, revealing the shortcomings of the existing system and the urgent need for change.

At the helm of SACA, the Managing Director wears many hats, from coaching to operations, fundraising to social media management. Their dedication extends beyond mere titles, as they embody the spirit of SACA in every aspect of its functioning.

Moeen Ali, the renowned cricketer, stands as a beacon of support for SACA, despite his demanding schedule. His endorsement underscores the significance of SACA's mission in empowering aspiring cricketers from diverse backgrounds.

The relationship between SACA and County cricket has been symbiotic, with counties recognizing the value of SACA in talent identification and development. Despite initial apprehensions, counties have embraced SACA as a vital partner in enriching the cricketing landscape.

Addressing the elephant in the room, the Managing Director shed light on the pervasive issue of racism in English cricket. Drawing from personal experiences and independent reports, they emphasized the imperative of eradicating discrimination to ensure the inclusivity and longevity of the sport.

Looking to the future, SACA boasts a burgeoning pool of talent, with numerous prospects on the cusp of securing county contracts. While confidentiality prevents the disclosure of specific names, the MD's optimism reflects the promising trajectory of SACA's efforts.

In essence, SACA stands not only as a cricket academy but as a catalyst for change in the cricketing realm. Its impact transcends boundaries, championing diversity, equity, and excellence in the sport we all cherish.

"Our aim is to embed the Asian community into the English cricket system" - Dr Tom Brown (YouTube.com)