Hitesh Bhagat of Dubai International Academy is the Sport360° Coach of the Week after DIA Wolves under-15s impressive form over the last two rounds of the National School League.

Mr. Bhagat is in his fourth year of coaching at Dubai International Academy and looks after three of the school’s teams – under-13s, under-15s and senior teams.

– NSL: All the news, fixtures and pictures

Position in the school: Head of Technology

Favourite player: Virat Kohli (India)

What do you enjoy doing when your not coaching: Watching cricket

What is your goal as a coach: To make my team, DIA Wolves, win the NSL and maximise their cricket potential.

How have DIA Wolves been preparing for the National School League:  We train three days a week. We’ve responded well to all the drills. We’re doing extra practice and putting in so much effort in order to win. The way we played over the last two rounds shows were performing well.  

What’s your view on the NSL: It’s outstanding. It’s one of the best tournaments I’ve been involved in. The fact we have so many teams involved and the sheer organisation of it helps a lot more. Before this, it was difficult getting games for the team. With a well-structured tournament in place, it builds a platform for the young cricketers.

What’s an average day like for you as a teacher and a coach: It’s very busy. My life is surrounded by cricket and work. I work and then when the classes are finished in the afternoon, I teach cricket for an hour or two. It’s all about getting the best out of the players. 

What's your advice for aspiring players: Train hard and enjoy it as much as you can.