6 Indian players from the U-19 tri-series to watch out for
Rahul Dravid’s coaching seems to be paying off as India U-19 are undefeated in the tournament so farAs the world watches in awe at history being created in Australia where the first day/night Test match is being held, or in India, where South Africa have finally been beaten away from home after 9 long years, the India U-19 team is creating waves in the Tri-Nation U-19 Tournament in the country.In a series comprising of the India, Bangladesh and Afghanistan U-19 teams, the young Indian colts, coached by the legendary Rahul Dravid, have qualified for the finals of the tournament, in which they will face-off against Bangladesh U-19 on Sunday.The U-19 team is the first step for any talented youngster aiming to cement their spots in the national side. History has seen several greats who have come into the side by virtue of their performances for their U-19 side.With the world keeping track of players’ progress even in their latent stages, it is important for the players to make sure they put nothing but their best efforts while playing any match.As the U-19 World Cup comes up next year, the players will take every series that comes their way as a golden opportunity to prove their worth before the final team for the World Cup is released.As the Indian team gear up to face Bangladesh in the finals, let’s take a look at 6 players who have shone in the tournament, and have made heads turn:
#6 Virat Singh
Gone almost unnoticed amidst the match-turning performances by his team members is Indian U-19 middle order batsman Virat Singh. He has played two good anchor roles in the middle but can definitely do more.
He didn’t have the greatest start to the tournament, getting dismissed for a golden duck in the very first match. Despite India winning the match, Virat was rested for the second game to give someone else a chance. He was given another chance in the third match, and he knew he had to make it count.
After a blazing start by Pant and Kishan, India U-19 needed someone sensible to keep going and make sure they didn’t lose too many wickets. Virat was the right man for it as he bid his time, waiting for the bad deliveries.
He didn’t let the Bangladesh bowlers get the upper hand as he made sure India matched the required run-rate. In the process, he also proved that he could go for the big shots as he hit 2 fours and a six. Despite being dismissed for 21, his knock was crucial towards India winning the match.
His best knock came in the last group match when he scored a terrific 71 against Afghanistan. After Kishan got out for a duck, he joined Rishabh Pant to take India to safety.
While Pant played the aggressive foil, Virat decided to play slowly and make the most of the pitch. As Pant blasted the bowlers apart, Virat played with a level head, splitting the gaps with surgical precision.
His 186-run partnership with Pant defined the course of the game, as India went on to make 266-7, which eventually proved to be too much for Afghanistan U-19.