IND vs AUS, Y-ODI: Rain-threat looms large as India takes on Australia in Rajkot

Lakshya Raichandani, who had previously served as India’s U-19 captain against Sri Lanka, will continue as skipper against Australia. | Photo Credit: Sri Lanka Cricket

Heavy rain threatens to disrupt Friday’s opening Youth ODI between India Under-19 and Australia at the Niranjan Shah Stadium.

If play is possible, India will begin the three-match series with Lakshya Raichandani as captain and Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan as his deputy. The squad has a mix of players returning from the recent Sri Lanka tour and those getting their first opportunity at this level.

Raichandani was vice-captain in Sri Lanka before taking over the leadership for this series. The Uttarakhand right-hander has also played First-Class cricket. Chauhan, who captained India in Sri Lanka, now steps in as his deputy.

The squad’s two most recognisable surnames belong to Anvay Dravid and Aaryavir Sehwag. Anvay, the younger son of Rahul Dravid, made his India U-19 debut in Sri Lanka and returns for another opportunity.

Aaryavir, son of former India opener Virender Sehwag, is in line for his first India U-19 appearance. The Delhi batter has also featured in the Delhi Premier League.

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Kushagra Ojha, another member of the Sri Lanka touring party, adds a left-hand option to the batting. Arjun Rajput, who also toured Sri Lanka, returns as an all-round option.

Rajput’s journey to the India set-up has been a modest one. His father, Hoti Ram, supported the family in Jalandhar by selling chhole kulche before starting a small bakery. Rajput now hopes to eventually break into the senior India side.

Manal Chauhan provides another left-hand batting option and can bowl slow left-arm spin. V.K. Vineet and Shavin Vinodh offer all-round options, while V. Yashveer and Mohit Ulva add to the bowling resources. Saurashtra all-rounder Aryan Savsani is the latest addition after replacing Rohit Yadav.

Australia, coached by Tim Nielsen, the former Australia men’s head coach, arrives with a young side. Will Byrom and Kasey Barton, who were part of Australia’s Under-19 World Cup squad earlier this year, bring international experience to the group. Eli Brain, Spencer Green and Charlie Henderson are among the other names in the squad.

For India, the series offers an opportunity to test this group against Australia and for individual players to strengthen their claims at the Under-19 level. But before the cricket takes centre stage, the weather remains the biggest concern.