India A’s campaign in the ACC Emerging Teams Cup may have ended with a loss to Pakistan in the final, but the young Indian team showcased impressive performances throughout the tournament. Despite limited international cricket experience, the Indian side remained undefeated until the final and displayed remarkable individual performances with both the bat and ball.
The Indian team, comprised of players with a background in under-19 cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL), proved their mettle by defeating teams comprising of players with more international experience. This performance bodes well for the future of cricket in India, as the squad of 15 players has the potential to strengthen the senior team’s bench strength.
Let’s take a look at some of the standout performers from the Indian side in the tournament:
1. Yash Dhull:
The U-19 World Cup-winning captain emerged as India’s top scorer in the tournament, amassing 234 runs in four innings at an average of 117.00. Dhull scored an impressive century and a half-century, with his best score of 108* coming against UAE. He finished as the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament, just behind Sri Lanka A’s Avishka Fernando.
2. Sai Sudarshan:
Sudarshan, who had previously made a name for himself in the IPL and the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), continued his impressive form in the India A colors. In five matches, he scored 220 runs at an average of 73.33, including a century and a fifty. Sudarshan’s memorable knock of 104 against Pakistan in the group stage showcased his talent and potential. He ended as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament.
3. Abhishek Sharma:
This 22-year-old all-rounder from Punjab displayed his skills with both bat and ball in the tournament. Sharma finished as the third-highest run-scorer, accumulating 221 runs in five innings at an average of 44.20. He scored two half-centuries, with a high score of 87 against Nepal A. Additionally, Sharma contributed with two wickets for the team.
4. Nishant Sandhu:
The Haryana all-rounder had a tournament to remember, earning the prestigious ‘Player of the Tournament’ award. Sandhu showcased his bowling prowess by taking 11 wickets in five matches, emerging as the leading wicket-taker in the competition. His best bowling figures of 5/20 came against Bangladesh A.
5. Rajvardhan Hangargekar:
Hangargekar finished as the second-highest wicket-taker in the tournament, proving his worth as a valuable all-rounder. In four matches, he secured 10 wickets at an average of 13.82. Hangargekar’s standout performance came against arch-rivals Pakistan in the group stage, where he recorded figures of 5/42.
In the final match against Pakistan, India chose to field after winning the toss. Pakistan posted a hefty total of 352/8 in their 50 overs, with Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan contributing significantly. Despite a strong opening partnership, India faltered in their chase and were ultimately bowled out for 224 runs in 40 overs. Sufiyan Muqeem claimed three wickets for Pakistan, while Tayyab Tahir was named the ‘Player of the Match’ for his outstanding knock.
Although India A couldn’t claim the title, their performances throughout the ACC Emerging Teams Cup are indicative of a bright future for Indian cricket. The players exhibited immense skill, determination, and potential, making a strong case for themselves to be considered for the senior national team. With a promising squad at their disposal, India’s bench strength continues to grow, setting the stage for even greater success in the times to come.
