MUMBAI, AUG 8: Stung by the cricket establishment's apathy towards him, the former Test star Sandeep Madhusudhan Patil has decided to slug it out in a different way -- by coaching teenagers.

``I still feel that I haven't done enough. Maybe, this would give me satisfaction,'' remarked the handsome personality who gained international acclaim for his swashbuckling batsmanship and respect for his cricketing acumen, in a brief chat with newsmen last evening.

It was the 41-year-old Patil's first interaction with the media since his sacking as coach of the national team by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). As he spoke of his pet project -- the cricket academy -- which is to take shape in October at the Middle Income Group (MIG) Club, Bandra the pangs of his unceremonious ouster were very much evident.

Elaborating on his new-found obsession, Patil said: ``I like to have a free hand in whatever job I'm entrusted with. It gives me immense satisfaction to know that Madhya Pradesh and later Kenya -- the teams which I guided -- are still performing at the levels I raised them to.

The MIG Cricket Academy will feature 80 boys in the age group of under-14 and under-16 respectively. Two nets each comprising 20 boys will be held in the morning and evening session. Former Indian skipper Polly Umrigar would be the chief co-ordinator of the academy which will also have four coaches, one physical trainer and a physio assisting Patil.

``Except for Jayantilal Kenia, I have not yet decided on the other coaches who would assist me. Everything would fall through once we get the sponsors for the entire duration of the three-year project,'' disclosed Patil.

The selection trials would be held in the second and third week of October after which 80 boys will shortlisted.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.