Dubai cricket academy that is managed by Indian cricket player Rohit Sharma reportedly closed down barely one year after its opening, stranding many parents and employees. CricKingdom by Rohit Sharma Unveiled in September 2024, it closed in May 2025, with some media reports citing financial mismanagement as the cause.
Originally the academy was operated under the brand name of “Grasport Sports Academy” in partnership with Rohit Sharma. The popularity of the well-known cricketer appealed to around 35 families who were lured by the prospect of being coached by an elite coach and the hall of fame that would come with the endorsement of a star cricketer.
Problems however started to emerge as very early as April, with trainings sessions having become erratic. Parents have claimed to have been shocked to get messages on May 28 informing them about the closure of the academy as well as assuring them about their refunds. Nonetheless, a Khaleej Times report shows that several families are yet to get their refunds.
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To further spice up the mess, a number of coaches linked to the academy accuse that they have not been paid salaries since December, 2024, and are now grappling with their back pay. An example of this is given by assistant coach Tiran Sandun Wijesuriya who has not been able to pay rent since May because of his back payment.
Though CricKingdom claims to be getting a relaunch through their own management by September 2025, other parties have already taken their grievances to the authorities in Dubai. This case has made the professionals warn against enrolling in academies due to the star power. So far, Rohit Sharma has not told anything official about the situation.