Who are the next big stars in the world of cricket?
As we wait for the world to come out of the current coronavirus crisis, let's take a look at six young cricketers who look like they can make a mark.
Shoriful Islam
One of the stars of Bangladesh’s U19 World Cup win earlier in the year in South Africa. The left-arm pacer was the leader of the Tigers’ pack.
In the final, Bangladesh were up against favourites India who seemed to have the upper hand while batting first, well-placed at 156-3 in the 40th over. But Islam returned to the attack to take the wickets of top-scorer Yashasvi Jaiswal (88) and Siddhesh Veer off successive balls to engineer a spectacular collapse, as the boys in blue were bowled out for just 177. Bangladesh won the title by three wickets.
Yashasvi Jaiswal
The Indian opener has been earmarked as a top prospect for the senior team and he showed why during the U19 World Cup in South Africa. The left-hand batsman topped the run-scoring chart, making 400 runs from six innings including a century and four fifties. Jaiswal has already made the cut for the Indian Premier League. Not bad for someone who once sold snacks on the street to make ends meet.
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On this day: March 23, Ponting crushes India
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Haider Ali
The young Pakistan batsman has been described as the next Babar Azam, or Virat Kohli, depending upon who you listen to. He did not exactly set the stage alight at the U19 World Cup but caught the eye of many with his poise and technique. He fared decently during the recently concluded Pakistan Super League, reaching double figures in six out of nine innings. “I cannot become Kohli but can develop shots like him through practice,” Ali said. That would be something.
Kartik Tyagi
The Indian fast bowler was thoroughly impressive in South Africa, bowling at top pace and executing his yorkers at will with the new and old ball. Although he didn’t have a World Cup title to show for his efforts, Tyagi emerged as a prospect for all formats as his action and mechanics provide him a strong foundation. Plus he has that natural late swing that many bowlers dream of.
Gerald Coetzee
The South African has it in him to be a heavyweight contender in the coming years. Coetzee is an out-and-out fast bowler and a more than handy batsman. He was playing in his second U19 World Cup and while he did not enjoy the best of tournaments, there was plenty of class on display. Already bowls over 90mph at the age of 19. Should be eyeing a spot in the senior team soon.
Ben Charlesworth
The 19-year-old England player is probably the most talked about cricketer at his age in his country. The left-hand batsman made a brilliant start in South Africa and smashed 82 against Australia, before suffering a finger injury that ruled him out from the remainder of the tournament. But if he stays on track, his journey to the senior team will be a matter of when and not if.
