AP’s Village to Virat Aims to Find the Next Dhoni!

In a major boost to cricket in Andhra Pradesh, the NDA government led by CM Babu has started to set the ground to revive the long-inactive Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) with a fresh and ambitious initiative. Titled ‘Village to Virat’ Rural Talent Search, the program will begin from April 5 and cover all 88 constituencies across the state.

For many years, cricket lovers in Andhra Pradesh have felt that the ACA had lost its earlier energy and direction. Now, the government is stepping in with a clear plan to bring life back into the system and identify young talent from villages and small towns. Since last year, we have seen how ACA became very active with constant international matches being held in Vizag these days.

Now Under this new program, selection trials will be conducted constituency-wise. From each constituency, around 20 to 50 players will be shortlisted based on their performance. Special priority will be given to Under-19 cricketers, ensuring that young and promising players get the right platform at the right age.

The selected players will not just receive certificates or recognition. They will be provided professional training at the specially developed cricket academies. If required, free accommodation and travel support will also be arranged. This step is expected to reduce the financial burden on families and encourage talented youngsters from rural backgrounds to participate confidently.

Officials say the idea behind “Village to Virat” is simply that the talent should not be limited to cities. Many great cricketers come from small towns and one such big example is MS Dhoni who himself has come all the way from small tier towns and cities to captaining India. This initiative aims to spot such hidden gems early and nurture them properly.

With this move, Lokesh is sending a strong message that sports development, especially cricket, will be given serious attention which is also seen in revival of the long-standing Mangalgiri cricket stadium. If implemented effectively, this program could not only revive the ACA but also create a strong pipeline of young cricketers for the state in the coming years.