Under-19 World Cup: In a spectacular display of talent and skill, Hyderabad’s cricketing prodigies, A Avanish Rao and Murugan Abhishek, are not only making waves in the ongoing Asia Cup in Dubai but have also secured coveted spots in the India Under-19 squad for the upcoming World Cup in South Africa.
Avanish Rao, a wicketkeeper-batsman, radiated enthusiasm as he shared his joy, expressing, “Playing for the country has always been my dream. Being chosen to represent India in the Under-19 World Cup is not just a dream come true but also a significant stride toward my ultimate goal. I am thrilled.” The 18-year-old southpaw has displayed unwavering form, amassing 274 runs across six Vinoo Mankad matches, featuring a century, and an additional 170 runs with another century in the Challengers Trophy.
Avanish Rao’s impressive performances continued in the quadrangular series in Vijayawada, where he contributed 160 runs, securing his place in the Hyderabad senior team for the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The young cricketer, who idolizes former Australian player Adam Gilchrist, is the first-choice wicketkeeper in the Asia Cup, further solidifying his place in the Indian Under-19 team.
In contrast, Murugan Abhishek, a right-arm off-spinner and right-handed batsman, echoes Avanish’s enthusiasm. The emerging cricketer from Dubai expressed, “My current emotions are beyond words—I am extremely pleased. My focus now is to contribute significantly to the team’s success and clinch the World Cup. That stands as my immediate goal.” Abhishek, drawing inspiration from Virat Kohli, demonstrated his cricketing prowess in both the under-19 Vinoo Mankad Trophy and the Challengers Trophy, securing his position in the Under-19 World Cup squad.
With six wickets in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy and seven in the Challengers Trophy, Abhishek has proven his worth as a valuable all-rounder. Making his debut for the Hyderabad senior team in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Abhishek’s dream is to play for the country, and he is diligently working on honing his batting and bowling skills.
Both Avanish Rao and Abhishek are not only focused on representing India on the global stage but are also hopeful of securing contracts in the upcoming IPL auctions. Their dedication, passion, and promising performances are a testament to the bright future of Indian cricket as they continue to make strides in their cricketing careers.
