India U19 Head Coach is upbeat about the future despite his team’s defeat in the U19 World Cup Final, saying, “They have shown maturity in tough situations.”

The disappointment persisted following India’s loss to Australia in the ICC U19 World Cup 2024 final. Though they lost by 79 runs, the competition gave rise to some of the game’s brightest young players, including captain Uday Saharan, Musheer Khan, Saumy Pandey, and Sachin Dhas. Hrishikesh Kanitkar, the head coach of India’s U19 World Cup team, spoke candidly about the future of Indian cricket and expressed optimism for the 2024 group.

Kanitkar exuded a tangible sense of confidence, saying, “India’s future is bright.” Numerous individuals have turned up outstanding performances both as a bowling and batting team. They have shown maturity in trying circumstances, which is encouraging for Indian cricket, Kanitkar stated on Sunday during the press conference following the game.

He praised the players’ exceptional performances and emphasized their maturity in trying circumstances. He thinks that such tenacity is encouraging for the future of Indian cricket. Every season, there are a few players that stand out for the Indian squad or the IPL: Kanitkar, Hrishikesh

Beyond the competition, the U19 World Cup has a lasting impact by providing a platform for upcoming cricket stars.

Kanitkar reminisced about former young standouts who went on to become important members of the Indian squad, such as Rohit Sharma, Yuvraj Singh, and Virat Kohli. Despite noting the fierce rivalry inside the nation, he projected that a few up-and-coming stars will once again grasp the opportunity to shine, whether in the Indian Premier League (IPL) or the national squad.

Every time, a few men stand out for the Indian side or the Indian Premier League. Although there is fierce rivalry back home, I’m confident there will be a few, Kanitkar continued.

Arshin Kulkarni and Aravelly Avanish Rao, two members of the squad, have already signed IPL contracts. Kanitkar underlined the importance of this platform in preparing players for the demands of playing at the senior level. He underlined that the extreme scrutiny and pressure U19 World Cup players face teach them priceless lessons and give them the fortitude and poise needed to succeed on the big stage.

“Everything is emphasized for the players’ incredible trip; these performances count, and they are closely watched. They adjust to these circumstances. When they play higher levels of cricket, they are ready and aware of what to expect, according to the 49-year-old head coach.