This India U-19 team has some exciting prospects for future, says selector S. Sharath

As the India Under-19 boys reclaimed the junior World Cup after four years, one person who played a key role in the team’s last two triumphs is former Tamil Nadu cricketer S. Sharath.

The 53-year-old had served as head of the junior selection committee in 2022 and took on the role again late last year for this event.

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

On the preparations charted out for the youngsters, Sharath credited VVS Laxman, who heads the Centre of Excellence, and his colleagues in the committee for arranging several tours to aid their development.

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

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The final win was headlined by Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s 175, and the chairman reckoned he is a superstar in the making. “To do what he did on the biggest stage was sensational,” he said, while also praising Ayush Mathre’s leadership.

Though Sharath was unable to play for India despite a stellar domestic record, 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.

Published on Feb 06, 2026