At the age of 37, left-arm pacer Devendra Singh Katheit has made a remarkable return to competitive cricket through the Player Development Programme (PDP) of the Madhya Pradesh Cricket Association (MPCA). He now represents Royal Nimar Eagles in the Aditya Birla Group Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup.
Second chance through PDP
The PDP is a unique MPCA initiative designed to give talented cricketers who had stepped away from the game for various reasons a second chance to pursue their cricketing dreams. Under the programme, every MPL franchise includes two PDP players in its squad, identified through an extensive scouting process. Katheit grabbed this opportunity and worked his way back into competitive cricket.
Emotional comeback
Reflecting on his journey, Katheit said, "Getting the opportunity to play in the MPL itself felt like a dream come true. I had stepped away from competitive cricket for several years, but I never lost the passion for fast bowling. When the Player Development Programme came along, I saw it as a chance to test myself against some of the best players in the state. The support I received from my seniors, coaches and teammates gave me the confidence to believe that I belonged at this level. For me, this journey is proof that if you keep working hard and stay ready, opportunities can come at any stage."
He added, "There was a time when I thought competitive cricket had passed me by. I was focused on my job and played only occasionally, but the love for the game was always there. The Player Development Programme gave me a platform to showcase my skills, and the encouragement from experienced players around me pushed me to work even harder. Playing in the MPL and representing my team on such a big stage is a very special feeling."
Family support and message to aspiring cricketers
Katheit experienced an emotional moment when he stepped onto the field for his MPL debut, with his family watching from the stands and cheering him on. "My family had always known how much I loved cricket, so when I got the opportunity to play in the MPL, it was an emotional moment for all of us. Seeing them watch me perform on such a big platform made all the hard work worthwhile. Right now, I just want to enjoy this opportunity, contribute to my team and make the most of every match," he said.
Lauding the PDP, he said, "The Player Development Programme is a huge opportunity for players who may not have had the chance to play professional cricket earlier. My message to everyone is simple: keep working hard and stay prepared. You never know when an opportunity like this will come. If you are ready when the moment arrives, it can completely change your journey."
Impact of MPL on cricketing dreams
Katheit also praised the MPL and the PDP for providing a valuable platform to showcase talent and revive cricketing careers. "The MPL has given players like me a platform to dream again. I stayed patient, kept working hard and waited for my opportunity. Now that it has come, my focus is on giving my best for the team and enjoying every moment of this journey," he concluded.
The MPCA's Player Development Programme has been instrumental in bringing back players like Katheit, proving that talent and determination can overcome age and time away from the sport.
