NEOM, a prominent Saudi Arabian development, has joined forces with Rajasthan Royals, a renowned Indian cricket team, to introduce a cricket program in Saudi Arabia. This exciting initiative aims to promote an active and healthy lifestyle among the growing workforce, which is expected to reach 60,000 individuals by the year end.
Rajasthan Royals, originating from Jaipur, India, is globally recognized for its cricket academies and community foundation work. To celebrate this partnership, the lead owner of Rajasthan Royals, Manoj Badale, visited NEOM and engaged in cricket sessions with CEO Nadhmi Al-Nasr and community members.
The cricket program will prioritize inclusivity, aligning with the Royals' commitment to fostering the development and innovation of cricket on an international scale. Cricket has already gained significant popularity among the thousands of individuals working at NEOM, drawing more participants and spectators to the sport.
NEOM aspires to become an innovative sports destination, collaborating with global sports brands, enhancing livability for its residents, and contributing to its vibrant economy. This new partnership further demonstrates the region dedication to fostering an active and healthy community.
Prince Saud bin Mishal Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Arabian Cricket Federation, emphasized the importance of developing a thriving cricket ecosystem that can be enjoyed by everyone. The collaboration between NEOM cricket program and Rajasthan Royals will contribute to the growth of the sport in the Kingdom.
Jan Paterson, Managing Director of NEOM Sport, expressed NEOM commitment to cultivating the most physically active society globally, stating that the partnership with the Royals is a significant step towards realizing that vision. NEOM aims to capture and nurture the existing enthusiasm for cricket within the region and extend it to the wider community.
Manoj Badale, lead owner of Rajasthan Royals, expressed excitement about the collaboration and the launch of the grassroots cricket program with NEOM. He emphasized that this partnership will contribute to NEOM vision of creating an inclusive, active, and healthy community. The goal is to witness the growth of cricket within NEOM and make a lasting impact on the workforce, residents, and society.
Specialist partners RISE and Red Bear Sports will oversee the delivery of an authentic T20 cricket league at NEOM. This community-based program will be supported by a participation program, which is set to be implemented by the end of the year. NEOM recognizes the importance of sports in enriching lives within the megadevelopment and aims to support the development of sports leaders within the workforce.