India U19 skipper Prithvi Shaw's homecoming fetches lukewarm response

The Indian U19 side has returned to the country after what was an extraordinary campaign in England. The hosts were outclassed by the young and budding talents from India, guided by their stop-gap coach WV Raman. But even after completing a clean sweep over the formidable Three Lions in their own backyard, skipper Prithvi Shaw’s homecoming was not marked by anything significant.

But that does not deplete the confidence and ecstasy of the cricketer, as he is over the moon after his team’s success. India defeated England 2-0 in the Test series, before thrashing them five times in as many matches in the limited-overs format. The 17-year-old teenager from Thane, Maharashtra was expecting a good performance but said he could never have dreamt of such a top-notch performance.

“We just wanted to play well and win both Test and ODI series but I didn’t really expect such a victory margin. All credit to the team and support staff. We are ready to accept the Asia Cup challenge. Whoever the opponents are, we are confident of beating them,” said a high flying Shaw to Mid-Day.

When asked about his experience of leading the side, the highest run-getter of the Test series against England said: “It was a good learning experience for me as captain of the one-day side. All players supported me and contributed in the win, but coach WV Raman sir gave me lot of confidence to lead the side and bat well.”

Shaw scored three half-centuries in two Test matches but was not able to convert it into double figures. When asked about it, he said, “Every player wants to convert his fifties into hundreds. However, I am satisfied with my performance. To beat England 7-0 in their backyard made us really proud.”

Though head coach Rahul Dravid was not able to travel with the side as he is busy with his India A commitments, Shaw said the legendary cricketer prepared themselves mentally ahead of their tough test. “Dravid sir prepared us mentally during the camp in Bangalore. He zeroed in on how to face tough situations in England and that helped us a lot while playing there,” he said.

Raman heaps praise on Shaw

Indian U19 side’s coach for the England tour, Raman went all praise for the youngster. “Prithvi put the opposition fast bowlers on the back foot and he likes to attack right from the start. Yes, he could have converted some scores into big ones, but he has got a positive mindset and plays his shots fearlessly. Personally, I would not want him to sacrifice his positive intent and confidence. He is a good striker of the ball on the front and back foot. He should continue to play as he is playing now. As a leader, he reads situations very well. He tries to be ahead of the game,” Raman said.