CHENNAI: There have been several instances in the past where children who were prolific scorers at the sub-junior and junior level, had quit the game due to studies. This was very much so in CBSE schools where parents wanted their children to study rather than waste time in sports. But, S Aravind, a prolific batsman and a handy left-arm spinner chose to manage studies and the game as a student of Padma Seshadri School, Nungambakkam.
Coached by S Kedarnath, at the Kedar Cricket Academy, Aravind scored runs heavily season after season at the sub-junior and junior level. He was the toast of the players in the tournaments in summer and played a vital role in the Academy winning various tournaments. From then on, he moved to the U-19 level and is now considered one of the most promising players in his age group.
Now, a student of Guru Nanak College, Aravind is keen to transform the success he had at the junior level to the senior one — he was picked up by Jolly Rovers in the Senior Division league of the TNCA. “As per the rule, we had to pick two U-19 players in our team. We heard that he is good and that’s why we picked him. It is for him to use the opportunity and learn,” said Bharath Reddy, cricket in-charge of Sanmar group that owns Jolly Rovers.
Learning is the most important aspect for a youngster in today's competitive world. Very few get the opportunity to play alongside Test cricketers. At Jolly Rovers, all players are keen to learn from Murali Vijay and R Ashwin. “I got to play alongside Vijay in a game. It was a fruitful experience. I am waiting to interact with Ashwin. Playing in one of the best sides in the league will help me improve as a player,” said Aravind.
The lanky youngster has been a consistent performer in Cooch Behar and Vinoo Mankad tourneys. At times, his left arm spin bowling has come in handy. In the TNCA round-robin U-19 tournament too this season he has done well with a century under his belt. “No doubt he is talented. He needs to be a little more consistent. His spin bowling is more than handy,” said Tamil Nadu U-19 coach DJ Gokulakrishnan.
Now the ball is in Aravind's court to capitalise on the opportunities and climb the ladder quickly as competition at the senior level is intense.
