Anil Kumble's company TENVIC launches talent search contest for spinners

BENGALURU: TENVIC, a sports training and consulting company co-founded by former Indian spin legend Anil Kumble, today launched a new initiative, Spin Stars, a unique talent search contest for aspiring spin bowlers in the 10-19 age group across Karnataka.

"TENVIC is committed to encouraging sports at the grassroots level and the Spin Stars contest is a part of this commitment. We are excited to launch this contest in Karnataka as it is home to some excellent cricketing talent. We hope to replicate such initiative in other states also to help identify the next generation of spin bowlers," Kumble told reporters here.

The initiative will allow youngsters to showcase their spin bowling talent by bowling in nets in the presence of senior coaches and cricketers, Kumble said.

The trials are scheduled to be held in Bengaluru, Mangaluru and Hubballi, between January 3 and 18, he said.

The finals will be held here on January 17 and 18 next year.

The top 20 contestants stand to receive cricket kits and attend a training camp that includes a workshop with Kumble.

The top three winners chosen will be rewarded with a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh each and will also get a one-on-one session with Kumble.

"With Anil Kumble's Spin Stars contest, we want to give youngsters a platform to showcase their talent in spin bowling. Based on the response generated from this initiative, we would explore opportunities to extend our platform to other sports as well," former international table tennis player and TENVIC co-founder Vasanth Bharadwaj said.