Sourav Ganguly impressed by India’s Under-19 pacers

What’s the story?

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly praised the Indian Under-19 team for their successful campaign in the Under-19 World Cup. He hailed the performance of the fast bowlers and was thoroughly impressed with the talent they possess.

Speaking to India Today after India’s triumph in the final, Ganguly said, “You look at the fast bowlers, (Kamlesh) Nagarkoti, (Shubham) Mavi, (Ishan) Porel they all are hitting 140. They are just 17-18 years of age. I agree and understand that the bridge between the U-19 and senior level is a lot more and these boys will have to cover that bridge but they’ve got serious talent these young kids.”

In case you didn’t know…

The Indian Under-19 team dominated the World Cup which took place in New Zealand. They brushed aside every team they faced and won the final on 3rd February by beating Australia by 8 wickets.

One of the biggest positives for India in their successful World Cup campaign has been the performance of their fast bowlers. Mavi and Nagarkoti played all six games in the tournament and were one of the most impressive bowlers of the tournament. Both pacers can consistently hit the 140 kmph mark. They troubled most batsmen during the tournament. On the other hand, Porel is not as quick as the two of them, but he is very accurate. Although Porel got injured in the first game, he made a successful return in the knockout games and picked up 4/17 in the semi-final.

While Mavi and Nagarkoti both picked up 9 wickets apiece (in 6 games), Porel took 6 wickets in 4 games (with 4/17 and 2/30 in the semi-final and final).

The heart of the matter

The President of the CAB (Cricket Association of Bengal), Sourav Ganguly also credited the success of these Under-19 youngsters to the excellent domestic structure present in India. He said that the amount of age-group cricket that is played in different states is very good.

He stated, “The system in Indian cricket is so good that it actually helps produce good cricketers. I must say over the last 10 years a lot of work has been done in creating a level where everybody improves. You go back to the states, U-19 level there’s so much of cricket and everything is well organised.”

Ganguly also praised his former teammate Rahul Dravid (as coach and mentor) and the support staff for their contribution. “The best thing was when Rahul was being interviewed after the match, the boys were jumping and celebrating. That’s the kind of freedom these young boys have. Not just Rahul, you got to give credit to Paras Mhambre and all the support staff,” he quoted.

What’s next?

After winning the Under-19 World Cup, the Under-19 team celebrated their victory very well. With some of these players getting IPL contracts, their next assignment will be the Indian Premier League (IPL) which starts on April 7th.

Author’s note

India’s pace attack was one of the main reasons why India lifted the Under-19 World Cup title. The ability of bowlers like Mavi and Nagarkoti to clock 140 kmph on a consistent basis is special. Thus, they need to be looked after so that a smooth transition can take place from the Under-19 level to the ‘A’ team and then to the senior side.

Also, with the pool of fast bowlers (including these Under-19 youngsters) that India have now, it is a blessing in disguise for the Indian team and the management.