SACA to Field Two Sides Again in Upcoming Red-Ball Double Header

SACA to Field Two Sides Again in Upcoming Red-Ball Double Header

The South Asian Cricket Academy (SACA) will once again field two teams simultaneously this week, as they take on Sussex 2nd XI and Yorkshire 2nd XI in a pair of three-day fixtures. This marks the third time this year that SACA has taken on the challenge of running two red-ball matches at the same time — a valuable opportunity to provide more of their players with meaningful exposure at a high standard.

Earlier this season, SACA faced Warwickshire and Essex in a similar format, with a standout performance against Warwickshire resulting in a 405-run win. That game saw centuries from Vansh Jani and Arav Shetty, with Jani later offered a rookie contract at Warwickshire. Against Essex, SACA were competitive but fell short. In a second double-header against Kent and Worcestershire, the side earned a hard-fought win over Worcestershire thanks to a brilliant fourth-innings hundred from Amrit Basra, while the Kent fixture ended in defeat.

Shetty cuts one to the boundary

This challenge will be heightened by the absences of several key players who are trialing including both Basra and Shetty who are will Derbyshire and Lancashire, respectively. While their absence will be felt, it’s also a reminder of what these fixtures are about — giving players a platform to perform and progress.

Despite missing several key players and already seeing three SACA players sign professional contracts this season, the academy remains focused on development. The opportunity to play two county second XIs at the same time is a test of depth, but also a chance for others to step up.

Jani drives one for through the covers

“We’re proud of the opportunities our players are starting to earn,” said SACA Managing Director Dr. Tom Brown. “We know we’ll be without some important players this week, but that just creates space for others to take their chance. These fixtures are about learning, competing, and helping players develop the consistency needed for the professional game.”

As ever, SACA sees these games as part of a broader mission: to bridge the gap between talented players from underrepresented backgrounds and the professional game. The academy hopes the experience will prove valuable for all involved — and that, win or lose, more players can move a step closer to their goals.