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Son of choreographer who sold vegetables to make ends meet during Covid-19 pandemic, Baroda pacer Ashutosh Mahida is ready to make an impact in the youth triangular series featuring India A U19, India B U19 and Afghanistan U19. Representing India A, Mahida helped his side register a 37-run win against India B. He took a couple of wickets for 33 runs in nine overs. His scalps included Vedant Trivedi, the batter who scored a century alongside Vaibhav Suryavanshi on Australia tour.
“My father, Chirag Mahida, is a choreographer and was doing well till the pandemic. During the lockdown, work slowed and he was forced to sell vegetables to make ends meet. While I continued my cricket, I also helped him sell veggies,” Mahida told TOI.
“Those were challenging times, but we didn’t give up. My father encouraged me to focus on cricket even during our troubles. Gradually, our situation improved and now he is back to his passion — choreography,” the youngster added.
The spell vs Reliance team that change the game
Mahida plays for Motibaug Cricket Club. He was selected for Baroda Under-16 squad as well and continued to rise. The right-arm pacer has been supported at home despite hardships at home. The coach at Motibaug Cricket Club, Digvijay Rathwa recalled his game-changing spell and pace that can unsettle batters. He has marked him for big things ahead.
“I still remember his bowling spell of seven overs against the Reliance team that changed the entire game in the HD Zaveri League last year. Mahida bagged four wickets in his spell and led the Motibaug team to victory. He is the kind of bowler who likes to strike fear in the hearts of batsmen through pace. He will go a long way,” Rathwa said.
Mahida's chance to book spot for U-19 World Cup
Mahida will be in action against Afghanistan Under-19 team on November 11 at Bengaluru's Centre of Excellence Ground 1. The youth triangular series will work as a preparatory series for the Under-19 World Cup next year. It will be interesting to see whether he cements his place in the Under-19 World Cup side. The tournament will be played in Zimbabwe and Namibia in January-February 2025.
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