bmobile and Pooran Hit Big with Young Talent at Nicky P Batting Academy
TSTT Corporate Communications
World-renowned wicketkeeper/batsman Nicholas Pooran and communications leader bmobile have earned high praise from parents and participants following the successful completion of this year’s Nicky P Batting Academy.
The two-day clinic provided young cricketers with a unique opportunity to learn from Pooran’s world-class techniques, supported by bmobile’s commitment to community development and youth empowerment.
Held recently at the Kumar Rampat Cricket Academy, the bmobile Nicky P Batting Academy welcomed 52 young aspiring cricketers, aged 13-17, all eager to enhance their batting skills.
The 29-year-old left-hander guided participants on critical batting techniques—from footwork and shot selection to mental preparation and interpersonal skills—all essential for developing well-rounded players.
This year marked Pooran’s second time hosting the academy, coming just six weeks after bmobile announced a long-term partnership with him aimed at inspiring the next generation of Trinidad and Tobago and West Indies cricketers.
Anjanie Ramesar-Soom of bmobile’s Corporate, Environmental, Social & Reputation Management team said their alliance with Pooran reflects bmobile’s commitment to youth investment through sport.
“Nicholas is a role model who shares our dedication to inspiring future cricket stars in Trinidad and Tobago,” said Ramesar-Soom. “This support goes beyond financial; it’s about showing young people that we believe in their journey and want to see them succeed with new skills, confidence, and a deeper love for the game.”
The academy buzzed with excitement as several cricket legends joined to impart their knowledge, including world record holder Brian Lara, T20 superstar Dwayne Bravo, batting phenom Kieron Pollard, T20 World Cup winner Ravi Rampaul, ace spinner Akeal Hosein, and Trinidad and Tobago players Khary Pierre and Kjorn Ottley.
Reflecting on the academy’s success, Pooran said, “The batting academy was brilliant, and I’m grateful to all the sponsors, including bmobile, for supporting this initiative.”
While the clinic focused heavily on batting, there were also indoor sessions on respect, balancing academics with sports, and the core values that shape a cricketer. Participants were exposed to careers off the field, such as statistician, nutritionist, and trainer—roles Pooran views as critical in building complete athletes.
“These professionals keep us performing, both mentally and physically,” said Pooran. “We wanted to introduce this perspective to both students and parents to highlight the comprehensive support system around a player’s success.”
During the closing ceremony, bmobile recognized three standout academy members—Yuvvie Kantasingh, Zion Phillip, and Most Valuable Player Sameer Khan—with a free mobile phone for their dedication throughout the clinic.
Participant Veer Dabiesingh, 15, of Naparima College, expressed gratitude for the hands-on coaching, especially in mental resilience. “Developing our mental strength was eye-opening,” he shared. “It taught me that even if I get knocked down, I need to keep going.”
Emit Panchu, a parent and coach for Spring Village Sports Club, highlighted the academy’s emphasis on including parents in sessions to provide a holistic understanding of the journey to success.
“The academy emphasizes involving parents to show what it takes for their children to reach the next level,” said Panchu. “The caliber of players here reinforces discipline, academics, and core values essential for an athlete’s development.”
Panchu also honored veteran coach Kumar Rampat for his role in shaping young cricketers, including Pooran, saying, “Kumar instills values, showing that cricket requires a solid value system and teamwork.”
The Nicky P Batting Academy was made possible with additional support from Powerade, AKH Financial Group, Optometrists Today, and Perception Management.