The first ever indoor cricket academy opened in Kabul on Tuesday, providing training to at least 250 sportsmen by well-known coaches.

The academy has four grounds and has the capacity to hold 60 athletes at one time.

“We continue our efforts to make familiar our youth with the new technology. We are trying to deliver new skills to them so that they can learn professional cricket,” said Nazeemjar Abulrahimzai, a cricket coach.

“The youth come here and play cricket. They will distance themselves from unwanted activities. It is good work. We appreciate this move,” said Abdulaziz Gardiwal, a resident of Kabul.

Cricket players said they see it as a big opportunity to improve their skills in the sport.

“We went to other places too, but this is a venue with all facilities and we are happy for that. It can improve cricket and it is a big step,” said Ezatullah, a cricket player.

“When we started playing cricket, we had an ambition. Fortunately, that dream has come true; we have an indoor academy now,” said Sakhidad, another cricket player.