#KnowYourTeam: Meet bowlers of India's Under-19 World Cup Squad
The 12th edition of the Under-19 Cricket World Cup kicked off today, in New Zealand. Coached by the legendary Rahul Dravid and captained by Prithvi Shaw, three-time champions India are on the hunt for their record 4th title, after having narrowly missed it in 2016. In the second part of this series, we look at bowling unit of India's U-19 squad.
Kamlesh Nagarkoti
India may be a country rich in cricketing talent but we have always been guilty of not producing quality pace bowlers. But in Kamlesh Nagarkoti, India have a bright prospect. The lanky speedster from Rajasthan made headlines when he picked up a hat-trick in the Vijay Hazare Trophy last year. On the seam-friendly wickets of New Zealand, can he replicate the same heroics?
Shivam Mavi
This young lad, Shivam, from Noida will act as Kamlesh's deputy in the bowling department. He might not have the experience of first-class cricket to his name, but he is the joint highest wicket-taker in the recently concluded Challenger Trophy for India Blue. A cog in the wheel for this team, India are hoping he can carry the same form to New Zealand
Shiva Singh
18-year-old left-arm spinner from Uttar Pradesh, Shiva Singh will share the responsibility of India's spin department. He shot to fame while playing for Telefunken Cricket Club in the 2015 DDCA tournament. Shiva also picked up a five-wicket haul against England last year and is a capable batsman down the batting order.
Arshdeep Singh
Singh, a 6'2" pacer from Chandigarh, is undoubtedly one of India's biggest assets in New Zealand. The left-arm speedster can consistently clock speeds of 140 kph and will share the responsibility of leading the attack with Kamlesh Nagarkoti. He recently claimed a five-wicket haul in Challenger Trophy for India Red. With his height being an added advantage, he is developing into a consistent wicket-taker.
Pankaj Yadav
This leg-spinner may be just 15 years old, but make no mistake in judging the prowess of Pankaj Yadav from Jharkhand. The son of milkman, this boy is making huge strides despite not having played a single game for India U-19. In the Challenger Trophy, he bagged 6 wickets in 2 matches at an average of 15.
Anukul Roy
Jharkhand boy, Anukul Roy is the spearhead of the Indian spin attack. During the tour of England, Roy bagged 10 wickets and his handy batting skills lower down the order were also on display. With the experience of the Under-19 Asia Cup and the England tour, Roy can definitely be a match-winner for this Indian side.
Ishan Porel
This lanky speedster from Bengal is one of the most experienced players in the Indian squad. The 19-year-old has been consistent with his performances over the years and was highly rewarded when Dravid hand-picked him to be a part of the Under-19 squad. Clocking speeds of over 140 kph, Ishan bagged 13 wickets in 5 innings during his debut season in the Ranji Trophy
