Cricket

Samit Dravid, the son of legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid, has taken a significant step towards emulating his father's illustrious career by earning a spot in India's Under-19 squad for the upcoming series against Australia.Samit's selection is a testament to his impressive performances in the domestic circuit. The 18-year-old pace-bowling all-rounder has been in fine form, contributing both with bat and ball. In the recently concluded Cooch Behar Trophy, he played a pivotal role in Karnataka's maiden title triumph, scoring 362 runs and claiming 16 wickets.Samit's selection has been met with excitement and anticipation. He is seen as a promising talent with the potential to follow in his father's footsteps. Rahul Dravid, known for his exceptional technique and unwavering determination, is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.The India Under-19 squad will face Australia in a multi-format series, comprising three one-day matches and two four-day matches. The one-day series will be held in Puducherry from September 21-26, while the four-day matches will take place in Chennai from September 30 to October 7.Samit's inclusion in the squad is a proud moment for his family and a testament to his hard work and dedication. He will be eager to make the most of this opportunity and showcase his skills on the international stage.

Mohammed Enaan, a rising star in Indian cricket, has earned a coveted spot on the under-19 national team for the upcoming multi-format home series against Australia. The announcement was made at the launch of the Kerala Cricket League (KCL), where Enaan's selection was met with thunderous applause.Enaan's journey to the national team has been marked by consistent performances and hard work. Last season, he played a pivotal role in Kerala's under-19 cricket team qualifying for the second stage of the Cooch Behar Trophy cricket tournament. As the team's leading wicket-taker and a valuable contributor with the bat, Enaan's all-round abilities caught the attention of selectors.In the Cooch Behar Trophy, Enaan's leg spin proved to be a formidable weapon, claiming 24 wickets. His batting prowess was equally impressive, as he scored over 200 runs. A memorable performance came in Kerala's victory against Rajasthan, where he took five wickets for 32 runs and scored an unbeaten 83.Enaan's selection to the national team is a testament to his talent and dedication. He credits his coaches, P. Balachandran and Dinesh at the Athreya Cricket Academy, as well as his supportive teammates, for his success."I am feeling a bit excited and happy," said Enaan, a first-year B. Com student at Sree Kerala Varma College. "I have been representing Kerala in junior cricket for the last couple of seasons and I am grateful to my coaches and teammates."Kerala's under-19 coach, S.S. Shine, believes Enaan has the potential to become a world-class bowler. "He is a bowler in the mould of Rashid Khan. His quick arm action makes it harder for the batters to pick him. I am not surprised at his selection," said Shine.Enaan is eager to make a mark for himself in the upcoming series against Australia. He is confident in his abilities and is determined to contribute to the team's success.

Dhammika Niroshana, Former Sri Lanka U-19 Captain, Shot Dead at 41Former Sri Lanka Under-19 cricket captain Dhammika Niroshana has tragically passed away at the age of 41 after being shot outside his home in Ambalangoda, Sri Lanka. The incident has sent shockwaves through the cricketing community and beyond.Niroshana, a promising fast-bowler and occasional batsman, made his Under-19 debut for Sri Lanka in 2000. He went on to captain the team briefly in 2002, playing alongside future Sri Lankan stars such as Angelo Mathews, Upul Tharanga, and Farveez Maharoof.Despite his talent, Niroshana never made the breakthrough to the senior national team. However, he enjoyed a successful first-class career, representing Chilaw Marians CC and Galle CC. He retired from all forms of cricket in 2004.According to Sri Lankan Police, investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the shooter. The motive behind the attack remains unknown.Niroshana's untimely demise has left his family, friends, and the cricketing fraternity in mourning. He is survived by his wife and two children.