Dubai-based multinational logistics company DP World has joined hands with cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar and the International Cricket Council (ICC) to introduce a remarkable initiative named ‘Beyond Boundaries.’ This ambitious five-year program aims to provide cricket kits and equipment to grassroots cricket clubs worldwide, further promoting the sport among emerging talents.
The launch of this groundbreaking initiative took place in Mumbai, where Sachin Tendulkar unveiled the first repurposed shipping container that will serve as a cricket hub. The timing was significant, as it preceded the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, set to kick off in Ahmedabad on October 5. The initial DP World container, along with 40 cricket kits, found its home at the Chikhalikar Sports Club in Palghar, Maharashtra. Additionally, 210 kits will be distributed to young cricketers associated with academies such as the Achrekar Cricket Academy and Shivaji Park Gymkhana Academy.
Each of the 50 shipping containers repurposed for this initiative will contain 250 customized cricket kits. These kits include essential cricket gear such as bats, helmets, gloves, and pads. What sets these containers apart is their dual functionality. In addition to housing cricket equipment, they will serve as versatile pavilions, complete with built-in scoreboards, sun protection, and seating arrangements, providing a holistic cricket experience.
Sachin Tendulkar, a cricket legend renowned worldwide, expressed his excitement about this initiative, stating, “Cricket is becoming more global, and this initiative supports the growth of the game. We’re focusing on creating cricket spaces and distributing kits in countries where cricket is not as popular. Grassroots initiatives are vital to cricket development. Talent needs nurturing, and organizations like DP World must provide the support needed for athletes to thrive.”
The ‘Beyond Boundaries’ initiative is not limited to promoting the sport among boys alone. It also offers a safe space for young girls, who can utilize these containers as changing rooms, fostering inclusivity in the sport.
While three containers will be distributed in India, DP World has yet to unveil the list of countries where the remaining 47 containers will be sent. Kevin D’Souza, Senior Vice President of Business Development for the Middle East, North Africa, and the India subcontinent at DP World, emphasized the global reach of this initiative, saying, “This allows us to take cricket to the grassroots right across the world and to engage with diverse communities that benefit from our logistics services. So we’re bringing sports and trade together in some way.”
DP World boasts an extensive network in India, comprising six port terminals, seven rail terminals, six container freight stations, two under-construction free-trade and warehousing zones, 92 cities with express logistics centers, and 30 container trains. The company has made significant investments in India, exceeding $1.2 billion. In 2018, it partnered with the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF), India’s first sovereign wealth fund, to establish a platform for investments of up to $3 billion in various logistics and infrastructure projects.
To add a touch of local flavor to the initiative, the first container’s design was crafted by the talented local artist Sadhna Prasad. The artwork pays homage to Sachin Tendulkar, affectionately known as the “Master Blaster,” with the first ten containers being inspired by Tendulkar’s legendary cricketing journey.
The ‘Beyond Boundaries’ initiative will garner additional attention throughout the ICC tournament through special broadcasts. A bespoke graphic will display that for every 100 runs scored during the tournament, 10 cricket kits will be donated. All kit donations will be facilitated through the repurposed shipping containers, solidifying the initiative’s commitment to promoting cricket at the grassroots level.
‘Beyond Boundaries’ is a commendable initiative that marries the logistics expertise of DP World with the cricketing legacy of Sachin Tendulkar and the global reach of the ICC. By providing essential cricket equipment and multifunctional spaces, this program not only nurtures young cricketing talent but also underscores the power of sports philanthropy in bringing communities together and promoting inclusivity in the world of cricket. As these repurposed containers crisscross the globe, they will leave an indelible mark on the future of the sport, inspiring a new generation of cricketers to dream beyond boundaries.
