Amidst the gripping action at the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024, one young talent has captured the attention of cricket enthusiasts around the globe. Naman Tiwari, an 18-year-old left-arm pacer, is shaping up to be a formidable force in India’s fast bowling arsenal. With idols like Shoaib Akhtar, Dale Steyn, and Mitchell Starc to emulate, Tiwari is swiftly making a name for himself.
Hailing from a country where cricket is less a sport and more a religion, aspiring cricketers like Tiwari dream of achieving greatness on the international stage. Tiwari has been carving out a remarkable narrative for himself throughout the tournament. His outstanding ten-wicket haul is just a testament to the potential this young man harbours within. Yet, his appetite for success seems insatiable.
“When I see Shoaib Akhtar’s lightning speed, Dale Steyn’s lethal swing, and Mitchell Starc’s raw aggression, I can’t help but want to infuse my bowling with these elements,” Tiwari shared in a conversation with PTI Bhasha. This voracious learner meticulously studies the bowling techniques of his heroes, seeking to incorporate their strengths into his own performance.
More than just an observer, Tiwari has directly interacted with the contemporary spearhead of India’s pace attack, Jasprit Bumrah. These interactions weren’t merely formalities but invaluable sessions where the young bowler consumed wisdom on the art of bowling. Under Bumrah’s guidance, Tiwari has honed the deadly art of bowling accurate yorkers, which have become a significant weapon in his already impressive arsenal.
Bumrah, a source of inspiration for fledgling fast bowlers across India, emphasized the importance of mental fortitude and skill to Tiwari. From these conversations emerged a more refined, purposeful cricketer, reflecting the embodiment of advice turned into action. “I have to work hard to bring more aggression to my bowling,” Tiwari remarked, echoing Bumrah’s philosophy.
In the broader spectrum of Tiwari’s ambitions, he aspires not only to bowl the fastest delivery in the world but also to represent the senior Indian cricket team at the World Cup. Recognizing that his journey has just begun, he remains focused on his immediate performance, looking to improve and evolve his game to meet the challenges that lie ahead.
His skill and dedication come at a pivotal moment for India’s campaign as they gear up to face Australia, who have previously attained the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup title three times. India, aiming for their sixth title, sees in Tiwari not just a promising bowler but a strategic asset poised to make a significant difference.
Naman Tiwari’s saga is not just about an individual’s pursuit of greatness; it encapsulates the stories of many young cricketers who dare to dream. His emergence on the global scene is a reminder of the power of mentorship, the vigour of youth, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that continues to propel the game of cricket to newer heights.
As the tournament unfolds, cricket aficionados watch with bated breath, eager to see if this dynamic pacer will lead India to another glorious victory. Whether or not Tiwari achieves his lofty goals remains to be seen, but one thing is abundantly clear: the future of Indian fast bowling shines brightly, and it has a new torchbearer in Naman Tiwari.
