At just 22, Naveen (Nav) Sivanathan has become a beacon of inspiration in Sydney’s cricketing community. A passionate player and volunteer, Nav’s mantra is simple: “If a child wants a game of cricket, we will get one for them.”
As junior vice president of Kissing Point Cricket Club and a beloved coach for 250 young players, Nav brings unmatched energy, dedication, and enthusiasm to the sport. He balances his roles with ease, earning admiration as a mentor, coach, and friend to the junior players.
Earlier this year, Nav’s commitment to cricket earned him the prestigious title of Cricket NSW Young Leader of the Year. His journey in cricket began at age six with Milo Cricket (now Woolworths Cricket Blast), inspired by his father, Pras Sivanathan, who also played seniors cricket after migrating to Australia from Sri Lanka.
By eight, Nav was playing junior club cricket, and by 15, he was part of the senior team.
Over the past decade, Nav has contributed extensively to his club. He ran the Cricket Blast program for three years, coordinated junior teams, and played a pivotal role in expanding female cricket, helping establish two junior girls’ teams. Parents often praise Nav for being both a stellar cricketer and a relatable mentor who inspires young players.
Nav credits his leadership style to cricketing legends like Mike Hussey, AB de Villiers, Pat Cummins, and Sri Lankan icons Mahela Jayawardene and Kumar Sangakkara. “They taught me to give 100 per cent to every role and think creatively,” he shares.
Despite his busy schedule as a market researcher and senior cricketer, Nav makes time to attend junior games every Saturday, connecting with players and coaches before heading to his own matches. Whether commentating, scoring matches at the junior gala day, managing the bar, or hosting Friday night barbecues, Nav is the heart and soul of Kissing Point Cricket Club.
With his warm, authentic approach and tireless commitment, Naveen Sivanathan continues to inspire the next generation of cricketers, proving that the spirit of the game is alive and thriving.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
