India's young colts added another feather in their long endearing caps as they beat Bangladesh in a nail-biter to lift the Asia Cup for the seventh time.
After having won the title in 2018, India defended the title in Colombo in low scoring thriller. Through out the tournament, Indian batsmen and bowlers shined bright, and produced classic performances on the road to becoming Asian champions again.
?U-19 cricket is considered the breeding ground for youngsters and a platform to throw self in the reckoning, and Indian players didn't disappoint in making their mark.?
Here are the top five players who could have a big future:
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A talented opener and with loads of composure, Arjun Azad was the pick of the bunch for the Indian colts. He opened the tournament with an unbeaten 60 against Kuwait and followed it up with a hundred against arch rivals Pakistan.?
His stroke-play was eye catching and his hand-eye coordination was a treat to watch. He was the highest scorer in the tournament and was also named man of the series for his superlative efforts. He certainly has a big future ahead of him.?
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When India needed early breakthroughs in the final to defend a modest total of 106, Akash Singh swung the ball both ways to give India early strikes. His consistent ability to hit the right areas and swing the ball was too hot to handle for the sides in the tournament.?
He might have only picked 7 wickets, but there was enough to suggest that Akash is destined for bigger things.?
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When India needed a hero in the final, Atharva Ankolekar stepped up and won the game for India. After pace bowlers had provided early wickets against Bangladesh, Ankolekar came in, put the brakes, spun the ball, and got wickets, one after the other.
His figures of 5 for 28 in 8 overs completely turned the game around as India won by 5 runs. He was regular wicket taker in the tournament and showed great skills with the ball. The 18 year-old picked 12 wickets in the tournament.?
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The young right hander didn't really set the stage alight, but his contribution with both bat and ball was crucial in India's Asia Cup triumph. Having scored a crucial 37 in the final, he gave his team a decent score of 106 to defend on a tricky track.
He was also economical with the ball, and gave his captain a reliable option to get a few overs away.?
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The right-arm pacer missed few games including the final due to fitness issues, but the few he played he was outstanding with the new ball. He started the tournament with a three-wicket haul and was highly impressive.
If he keeps himself fit, he will have a long and hopefully successful career. He might even knock on the senior team's door. One to watch out for is Purank Tyagi.?