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Chennai-born Nivethan Radhakrishnan has been included in the Australia’s 15-member squad for the Under-19 World Cup which will kick off from January 14, 2022 in West Indies.
The ambidextrous bowler Nivethan, whose family migrated to Australia from Tamil Nadu in 2013, had the opportunity to work with the likes of legendary Ricky Ponting, Steve Smith and many high profile Indian cricketers during his IPL spell with Delhi Capitals earlier this year. He was the net bowler for the Delhi-based franchise.
Earlier this year Radhakrishnan, who has also made 622 runs this season opening the batting for his club side in Tasmania, said it was his father’s idea to try to bowl with both hands and he’d gone with it ever since.
“There was no one bowling with both hands on TV or in league cricket in Chennai. No one had heard of it back then. I was like, ‘Well, why not?’” Radhakrishnan told ESPNcricinfo.
Nivethan has earlier represented Australia at the Under-16 level.
Australia have three Under-19 World Cup title to their name (2010, 2002, 1988) and will look to end their 11-year title drought.
The squad includes Cooper Connolly, who has been selected for his second Under-19 World Cup, having been part of Australia's previous campaign in South Africa.
Also, another Indian-origin player, the 17-year-old Harkirat Bajwa will be hoping to replicate Connolly, having been picked as an underage player who will still be eligible for selection for the 2024 tournament.
“Our squad included players of all disciplines with experience in domestic cricket environments, and many have produced eye-catching performances across a variety of strong competitions this season,” Australia coach Anthony Clark said.
“ The Under-19 World Cup provides players with an exceptional development opportunity and we look forward to seeing them represent their country with distinction,” he further added.
Australia U-19 squad: Harkirat Bajwa, Aidan Cahill, Cooper Connolly, Joshua Garner, Isaac Higgins, Campbell Kellaway, Corey Miller, Jack Nisbet, Nivethan Radhakrishnan, William Salzmann, Lachlan Shaw, Jackson Sinfield, Tobias Snell, Tom Whitney, Teague Wyllie
Reserves: Liam Blackford, Liam Doddrell, Joel Davies, Sam Rahaley, Aubrey Stockdale.
