28 April 2026
Delhi Public School R.K. Puram marked a historic milestone on 28 April 2026 with the formal inauguration of the West Delhi Cricket Academy — a landmark initiative that underscores the institution’s unwavering commitment to sporting excellence and the holistic development of its students.
Distinguished Guests and Dignitaries
The ceremony was honoured by the presence of Mr. Virat Kohli as the Chief Guest — a celebrated icon of Indian cricket, former captain of the Indian national team across all formats, and a distinguished alumnus of the West Delhi Cricket Academy. His attendance lent exceptional distinction to the occasion and served as an inspiring affirmation of the Academy’s legacy.
The event was further graced by a distinguished gathering of civic and institutional leaders, including:
– Mr. Rohan Jaitley — President, Delhi and District Cricket Association
– Mr. Vijay Singh — Indian Police Service (IPS)
– Mr. Sudhanshu Dhar Mishra — Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax
– Mr. Rohit Gulia — Sessions Judge
– Col. Amarbir Singh — Advisor and Consultant, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India
– Mr. Anant Mudgal — Distinguished Mathematician, and Mrs. Munesh Mudgal
– Mr. Rajkumar Sharma — Founder, West Delhi Cricket Academy, and Mentor to Mr. Virat Kohli
The school’s leadership was ably represented by the Principal, Mr. Anil Kumar; Vice Principals, Mr. Naresh Miglani, Mr. Anil Kathuria, Mr. Mukesh Kumar, and Ms. Rashmi Malhotra; Headmistress Dr. Anubha Gopal; and Ms. Vandana Chandhoke, Incharge, Classes VI–VIII.
The Inauguration Ceremony
The proceedings commenced with the formal reception of Mr. Virat Kohli, who was warmly felicitated with a ceremonial stole and floral bouquets. In keeping with time-honoured tradition, the dignitaries jointly lit the ceremonial lamp — a symbolic gesture heralding an auspicious commencement to the Academy’s journey.
The dignitaries subsequently proceeded to the newly constructed cricket pitch, where Mr. Kohli performed the traditional coconut-breaking ritual under priestly guidance — a cherished cultural practice invoking blessings upon the new facility. The West Delhi Cricket Academy was formally inaugurated as Mr. Kohli cut the ceremonial ribbon, marking the official opening of this state-of-the-art sporting facility at DPS R.K. Puram.
Addresses by Dignitaries
Principal Mr. Anil Kumar extended a heartfelt welcome to the Chief Guest and all dignitaries present, expressing profound gratitude for their participation. Drawing upon his own formative experiences in cricket, he articulated the indispensable role of sport in shaping character, resilience, and well-rounded individuals — values that lie at the heart of the DPS educational philosophy.
Mr. Rajkumar Sharma, a recipient of the prestigious Dronacharya Award and the visionary founder of the Academy, expressed his deep gratitude to the Principal for providing the Academy a home within the school. The occasion held special personal significance, as he was joined by his distinguished protégé, Mr. Kohli. Mr Sharma expressed his aspiration that the Academy would inspire future generations of cricketers to pursue the sport with discipline, passion, and an unrelenting spirit of excellence.
Prize Distribution and Recognition
Mr. Virat Kohli presided over the prize distribution ceremony, personally honouring the DPS R.K. Puram team for their outstanding achievement in winning the IPSC Under-14 Girls’ Cricket Tournament. Additionally, students who distinguished themselves across a range of sporting disciplines were recognized and felicitated, celebrating the school’s culture of athletic achievement at every level.
Address by the Chief Guest
In his address, Mr. Virat Kohli expressed sincere appreciation for the invitation and conveyed his deep admiration for the school’s initiatives. He spoke eloquently on the transformative power of education and sport, urging students to regard their school as a nurturing environment for both academic and personal growth. He emphasized the virtues of respect, integrity, determination, and diligence as the cornerstones of lasting achievement — both on and off the field.
Reflecting on his own cricketing journey, Mr. Kohli shared cherished memories of training at the West Delhi Cricket Academy under the guidance of his coach and mentor, Mr. Rajkumar Sharma. He expressed his optimism that the Academy would continue to flourish as an institution of sporting excellence, inspiring and nurturing future champions for India and the world.
Conclusion
The ceremony drew to a dignified close with the singing of the National Anthem, leaving the assembled audience with a profound sense of national pride and collective inspiration. The inauguration of the West Delhi Cricket Academy at Delhi Public School R.K. Puram heralds a new and promising chapter — one dedicated to identifying and nurturing exceptional cricketing talent, instilling the values of discipline and sportsmanship, and making a meaningful contribution to the future of Indian cricket.