Samit Dravid’s dedication and perseverance in the cricketing arena have finally borne fruit, as he secured a spot in India’s U19 squads for the forthcoming multi-format home series against Australia. On Saturday, August 31, the Junior Selection Committee announced the squads, and the news has infused the young cricketer with a sense of achievement and joy.
In an interview with Star Sports Kannada, Samit expressed his heartfelt gratitude and excitement upon receiving the call-up. “First of all, I am very happy to be selected and thank you for all your wishes. I think I am feeling great; I worked very hard for this moment,” the young cricketer said, brimming with emotion.
The son of the legendary Rahul Dravid, Samit has been under the spotlight from a young age. However, his recent performances in the Cooch Behar Trophy have cemented his place in the squad, independent of his father’s legacy. In the four-day format tournament for under-19 cricketers, Samit amassed 362 runs and took 16 wickets, playing a pivotal role in Karnataka’s victorious campaign that culminated in a win over Mumbai in the final.
Samit Dravid’s burgeoning talent is evident not just in his batting capabilities as a right-handed batter but also in his proficiency with the ball, as he bowls right-arm medium pace. His all-around skills provide a balanced edge to the team. Currently, Samit is representing the Mysuru Warriors in the Maharaja T20 Trophy in Karnataka, a competitive tournament that features some of the best young talents in the region.
Despite his overall commendable season, Samit faced a bit of a setback when he wasn’t picked for the playing XI in the second semifinal against Hubli Tigers owing to a string of average performances in the T20 format. Nevertheless, he remains integral to the team, and Mysuru Warriors will clash with Bengaluru Blasters in the tournament’s final on Sunday, September 1.
The multi-format home series against Australia is set to test Samit and his contemporaries’ mettle. The encounter comprises various formats, allowing the young players to showcase their versatility.
. India’s U19 squad for the 50-over format appears well-rounded and robust, with talents spanning various regions of the country.
The 50-over squad comprises Rudra Patel (vice-captain from GCA), Sahil Parakh (MAHCA), Kartikeya KP (KSCA), Mohamed Amaan (captain from UPCA), Kiran Chormale (MAHCA), Abhigyan Kundu (wicketkeeper from MCA), Harvansh Singh Pangalia (wicketkeeper from SCA), Samit Dravid (KSCA), Yudhajit Guha (CAB), Samarth N (KSCA), Nikhil Kumar (UTCA), Chetan Sharma (RCA), Hardik Raj (KSCA), Rohit Rajawat (MPCA), and Mohammed Enaan (KCA).
The four-day squad, too, showcases a blend of experienced campaigners and promising newbies. This squad includes Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Bihar CA), Nitya Pandya (BCA), Vihan Malhotra (vice-captain from PCA), Soham Patwardhan (captain from MPCA), Kartikeya KP (KSCA), Samit Dravid (KSCA), Abhigyan Kundu (wicketkeeper from MCA), Harvansh Singh Pangalia (wicketkeeper from SCA), Chetan Sharma (RCA), Samarth N (KSCA), Aditya Rawat (CAU), Nikhil Kumar (UTCA), Anmoljeet Singh (PCA), Aditya Singh (UPCA), and Mohammed Enaan (KCA).
These selections highlight the rich pool of talent in India’s U19 circuit, setting the stage for a gripping series against their Australian counterparts. These young players, including Samit Dravid, are all set to rub shoulders with some of the finest youth cricketers from Down Under.
Samit’s selection is more than just a personal milestone; it’s a testament to the robust system of nurturing young talent in Indian cricket. The series against Australia will not only test their skills but also prepare these young athletes for bigger stages in the future.
With the series just around the corner, the Indian U19 squad’s hard work and preparation will soon be put to the test. The excitement and anticipation amongst the budding cricketers, including Samit, are palpable. The series promises to be a learning curve and a proving ground for these young players, many of whom aspire to don the senior national jersey one day. The entire country will be watching, hopeful and supportive of their young talents as they make their mark on the international stage.
Through the multi-format series, Samit Dravid and his peers have a golden opportunity to showcase their talent and lay the groundwork for future successes. As they step onto the field, carrying the aspirations of a cricket-loving nation, their journey is bound to inspire countless others.
