Mohali: Former Test cricketer Vikram Rajvir Singh regards this period as one of his finest "cricketing days." Although it may seem unusual given his experience in Test cricket for India, Singh, now in the role of coach, concluded the domestic season with three titles in the BCCI's under-23 competitions. Punjab secured the one-day title in January, followed by triumphs in the four-day CK Nayudu Trophy, and recently, they emerged victorious in the CK Nayudu Trophy winners' match against the Rest of India (ROI), thereby finishing the season on a high note.

"I am thoroughly enjoying my coaching role. Punjab cricket has contributed significantly to my career, and in a sense, I am giving back to the state that provided me with the opportunity to showcase my talents and join the Indian team. My team comprised exceptional players who dedicated themselves to maintaining their fitness throughout the season," stated the 40-year-old Singh, who concluded his playing career in 2019 after participating in five Tests, two ODIs, and 29 first-class matches.

Punjab clinched the U-23 title based on their first innings lead against ROI, with the match taking place at the IS Bindra PCA Stadium in Mohali on Wednesday.

In the one-day U-23 tournament, Punjab triumphed over Gujarat in the final and dominated Mumbai in the CK Nayudu Trophy final to secure their victories.

After retiring, Singh had not anticipated taking on a coaching role. However, once the UT Cricket Association (UTCA) received BCCI affiliation, the newly established state unit quickly appointed Singh as the head coach of their senior men's team. Five years later, Singh is leveraging his cricketing knowledge and training techniques to their fullest potential.

The inaugural year of my coaching journey proved to be an invaluable educational experience. Each season, I endeavor to refine my abilities and offer new perspectives to the players, stated Singh, who currently holds a BCCI Level II coaching certification and has previously acted as a bowling coach at the National Cricket Academy camps.

The achievements of the U-23 Punjab team did not materialize overnight. After two seasons as the head coach of the state team, tangible results began to emerge in his third season. Notably, Singh, who had served as the head coach of the UTCA’s senior men’s team for two consecutive years, was replaced in this position during his third season. That year, he did not coach any state team but instead took on various roles to broaden his experience. He worked as a cricket expert, served as a scout for Punjab Kings during the IPL, and participated in cricket tournaments as a veteran player.

“Life has a way of coming full circle. I prefer to embrace whatever comes my way. I am content with how events unfolded. Witnessing my team achieve victory and excel was an unparalleled joy. These are the moments we cherish. Cricket has been my passion, and I take great pleasure in mentoring aspiring cricketers,” Singh remarked. His name was considered for the head coach position of the Punjab senior men’s team at the start of the domestic season, but the role ultimately went to former Indian cricketer Wasim Jaffer from Mumbai. Once recognized as one of the fastest bowlers in India, Singh made his debut for the national team in 2006.

He was also associated with the Punjab franchise, Kings XI Punjab, during the inaugural IPL season and is currently part of the Punjabi commentary team for the IPL.

PCA president Amarjeet Mehta has announced a reward of ₹80 lakh for the victorious team and its support staff.

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