Rain threat looms over youth ODI series opener

Heavy rain threatens to disrupt Friday’s opening youth ODI between India u-19 and Australia u-19 at the Niranjan Shah Stadium here.

India is captained by Lakshya Raichandani with Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan his deputy in the three-match series. Lakshya was vice-captain on the recent Sri Lanka tour where Yashbardhan led the side.

India coach Yere Goud believes the preparation is in place, with execution now the key.

“Australia is always a formidable side. From the preparation point of view, we are happy that we’ve covered all the areas. It is now about executing the plans. We know the challenges that come up against Australia, so we are prepared for them,” Goud told The Hindu.

The squad includes two familiar surnames. Anvay Dravid, the younger son of Rahul Dravid, made his India u-19 debut in Sri Lanka. Aaryavir Sehwag, son of former India opener Virender Sehwag, is in line for his first appearance at this level.

Kushagra Ojha, another member of the touring party to Lanka is a left-handed batter, while Arjun Rajput returns as an all-round option.

Australia, under the guidance of former senior men’s head coach Tim Nielsen, includes Will Byrom and Kasey Barton, who were part of the squad at this year’s u-19 World Cup.

For Goud, however, the series is about more than results.

“The whole idea of this bilateral series is about exposure and development of the boys. From where they were and probably with the exposure to the bigger games, how they develop themselves wherever they are put in a game situation,” he added.

Match starts at 9 a.m.