An initiative started by some former cricketers of a commerce college in the city five years ago is now looking to spread its wings. HL Re-United has now started a scholarship programme for cricketers in need. Earlier they provided financial stability to budding players to concentrate on their game. “We have completed five years and now people recognise our efforts. A lot of individuals and companies have approached us in terms of support. And this year even the Bharat Army (Group of supporters who travel to places where India plays its cricket), who are based in England, has joined us,” the man behind HLRU and former Gujarat Ranji Trophy captain Kirat Damani told Mirror.
“In fact, they had offered us to replicate the efforts in England.” With their core effort remain the support for players, HLRU has introduced scholarships for the players in need. “We don’t want players to feel that we are obliging them. We want to tell players that they deserve it and that’s why we have decided to call it as scholarships,” Damani explained. “Through scholarship we take complete care of a players while supporting their education, sports needs as well as providing support during any injuries.” This year two promising cricketers, Navneet Vora and Vimal Solanki was selected for the scholarships. “Our members, most of whom are cricketers themselves, kept an eye on the players throughout the season. and select them after a thorough analysis,” former cricketer and HLRU member Zubair Jariwala said.