Dehradun, September 6: Mussoorie Thunder batter Lakshya Raichandani has landed a major India U-19 opportunity, being named captain for the upcoming white-ball series against Australia. The young cricketer is now set to take charge of the junior national side, describing the appointment as a special moment for him and his family and a chance to lead, learn and prove himself on the international stage.
Currently featuring for Mussoorie Thunder in the Dehradun T20 League, Raichandani said the tournament has provided valuable competitive exposure as he prepares to take the next big step in his young career with India U-19.
“Everyone at home was very happy when I got the call. It was a very special moment for my family as well. I am really excited about the responsibility and see it as a great opportunity to lead the team, learn and prove myself,” Lakshya said.
The young cricketer will lead India U-19 against Australia and said he was grateful for the opportunity to represent the country.
“I am very excited and grateful for this opportunity. It is a great feeling to be part of the India U-19 team and to play against Australia. I am really looking forward to the white-ball series and hopefully I can contribute to the team.”
Lakshya said he is keeping his preparations simple ahead of the series, focusing on his regular practice and working consistently on his game.
“I am following the normal process and focusing on my practice. I am not doing anything very different. I am just working on my game, preparing well and trying to be ready for the series.”
Speaking about his experience in the Dehradun T20 League, the Mussoorie Thunder player said the tournament has provided valuable competitive exposure, particularly for young and local cricketers.
“The Dehradun T20 League is providing very good exposure to the local players. It is also very good preparation for the boys who are looking to play in the UPL. The local players are getting the opportunity to play competitive T20 cricket, gain experience and showcase their talent. I think this league can be very beneficial for the development of cricket in Dehradun and Uttarakhand.”
Reflecting on his first experience of the tournament, Lakshya said he saw the league as an opportunity to gain match practice and experience in a competitive environment.
“When I first heard about the Dehradun T20 League and found out through the auction that I would get an opportunity to play here, my first thought was that it would be good practice for me. There was also a lot of excitement because it was a new league and I knew I would get a good opportunity to gain experience and prepare myself.”
With the domestic season also approaching, Lakshya said his focus remains on continuous improvement and consistency.
“I am working on my game day by day and trying to improve in every aspect. It is going to be a long domestic season, so my focus is on staying consistent, working hard in practice and making small improvements every day.”
