It is the first time in the history of cricket in South Australia that an Indian Punjabi has been appointed as the head coach.
Yadwinder Singh Sodhi is currently coaching Grade A women’s team of Port Adelaide Cricket Club in South Australia.
“I am committed to craft the skills and talents of current and upcoming women cricket players. This new role has come up with a lot of responsibility,” he said.
“It is all about transferring your techniques and skills to players who want to enjoy it or play it at a professional level.”
Sodhi’s career as a player, coach and a cricket enthusiast has been noteworthy. He has been a professional cricket coach for nearly 14 years, coaching cricket enthusiasts locally, nationally and internationally.
Yadwinder Singh Sodhi with Indian cricketer Harmanpreet Kaur Source: Supplied
Coaching Indian cricket star Harmanpreet Kaur brought him the much-needed recognition.
“It gives me a sense of pride when people allign our coaching centre Giyan Joti’s name with cricketer Harmanpreet Kaur.”
“Harman is a brilliant player, a natural talent who is born to play cricket."
"I along with my father Kamaldish Singh Sodhi coached her for the first few years in Moga, Punjab.”
“My father approached Harmanpreet’s father and asked him to allow her to pursue cricket at their school. ‘Tussi apnee kudhi sanoo de diyo’ (Give your daughter to us)’.”
“Harmanpreet’s father was stunned, ‘What are you saying!’ We explained that we will take care of her cricket, her education and even accommodation.”
Sodhi also talked about some aspects of the Harmanpreet’s cricket career.
“She used to play with boys when my dad spotted her play for the first time.”
“She is very passionate about cricket. She is already acting as a role model to a lot of Indian youngsters especially the women players.”
Sodhi told SBS that the Port Adelaide cricket Club runs three women teams in grade cricket, which is South Australia's pathway to state and international honours.
Indian cricket coach Yadwinder Singh Sodhi moved to Adelaide, Australia in 2017. Source: Supplied
“Each of our sides has had success in both the one-day and 20-over competitions and we were the first club to win the leagues in all three divisions in the same year.”
“We currently have women cricket players from eight different nationalities.”
“We are always very keen for new players of any age and experience, no equipment is required.”
“We are a diverse playing group who aim for good results but also to have fun! Our players range from elite cricketers; hockey, softball and football players; to those who are completely new to the game.”
“Everyone is welcome. All you need is a bit of passion for cricket.”
