MPT20 League chairperson Mahanaaryaman Scindia explains how the league plans to revolutionise grassroots cricket in India by nurturing unregistered players and expanding infrastructure.

The Madhya Pradesh T20 League has set its sights on becoming the foremost domestic T20 competition in India, while transforming the state into a cricketing hub. As part of this ambitious vision, the league has introduced a Player Development Programme (PDP), with franchises committing to providing players with both training and job opportunities.

In a conversation with Sportstar, MPT20 League chairperson Mahanaaryaman Rao Scindia outlined how the league plans to unearth hidden talent from rural Madhya Pradesh and support players on and off the field.

What is the Player Development Programme introduced this year?

These are players who haven't been registered in any district or with the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association. This is exactly the kind of untapped talent we're trying to identify and support. Launching the PDP has been one of the major successes of this year's tournament. It's something no other league is doing - no policy in the country currently ventures into rural areas to scout and invest in players over time. One of our standout performers this year, Siddhanth Agarwal (two matches, three wickets), came through the programme.

How was the programme implemented?

The idea came from discussions I had with the team and the franchise owners. Our goal is to discover and nurture raw talent - to truly differentiate ourselves. The owners were enthusiastic and fully backed the initiative. Their support has been instrumental in getting this off the ground.

What happens to players who don't make it to the State team after the league ends?

All franchises operate their own training camps. Once the season concludes, the players return to those camps, where they continue to receive support - whether it's training, nutrition, or mentorship. Each year, we also hold new talent scouting trials to identify fresh players for the next season.

What about red-ball cricket - is that on the agenda?

Our current focus is on the T20 format, but we're taking things step by step. The plan is to first promote players through this format, and eventually expand into other formats. We intend to establish camps across Madhya Pradesh, in partnership with our sponsors, and develop pitches (academies) run by the league itself. These Madhya Pradesh Premier League (MPL) camps will operate year-round and serve as a pipeline for rural talent.

Where will these training camps be located?

We're beginning this year. From August onwards, we will identify seven or eight key districts to develop pitches. That way, once the monsoon ends, we can begin operations without delay.

Many players face financial constraints. How do you ensure they are supported?

Our franchises play a key role here. While the league provides support, the franchises have committed to assisting players financially. They offer direct financial aid and employment opportunities. Our partners have pledged to provide five jobs for male players and three for female players. If a player is in need - whether it's a job or financial assistance - support is made available. As far as we know, we are the only league in the country offering structured employment to players.

Are there plans to expand the league?

Yes. We're already one of the few leagues in the country to have a women's tournament. Now, we plan to add another team to the men's competition and also expand the women's league beyond the current three teams - Bhopal Wolves, Bundelkhand Bulls, and Chambal Ghariyals.

What is your long-term vision for the league?

Our end goal is to establish ourselves as the premier T20 league in India - with the best players, infrastructure, format, technology, and policy framework. We want Madhya Pradesh to become the nerve centre of cricket in India. That is the ambition we are working towards.