U-19 World Cup triumph was fitting response to Asia Cup final loss, says selection panel chairman Sharath

As the India under-19 boys regained the junior World Cup after four years, there was a common thread in the colts’ last two triumphs — former Tamil Nadu cricketer S. Sharath.

The 53-year-old had served as the chairman of the junior selection committee in 2022, too, and returned to the role late last year.

“It was a superb effort from the boys, with everyone contributing,” said an elated Sharath in a chat with The Hindu. “We have some exciting prospects in this team who can do great things for India.”

On the plans that were charted out for the youngsters, Sharath credited V.V.S. Laxman, who heads BCCI’s Centre of Excellence, and his colleagues in the committee for arranging several tours to aid their development.

Prior to the tournament, India had lost to Pakistan in the u-19 Asia Cup final, and Sharath felt it served as a wake-up call. “That loss shook them. You learn more from failure, and the way the boys responded was impressive,” Sharath said.

The u-19 WC final win was headlined by Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s 175, and the chairman described him as a superstar in the making. “To do what he did on the biggest stage was sensational,” Sharath said, while also praising Ayush Mhatre’s leadership.

While Sharath could not play for India despite having a stellar domestic career, he has made a mark as a selector.

“I know the value of the India cap, and I am thankful to the BCCI for allowing me to contribute to Indian cricket,” said Sharath, who was part of the senior selection committee when India won the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.