Under-19 World Cup: Who is India's Raj Bawa?
Raj Bawa helped India clinch the 2022 ICC Under-19 World Cup title on Sunday. He registered a historic five-wicket haul as India won the summit clash against England by four wickets. Bawa was adjudged the Player of the Final for his splendid bowling performance. He also scored 35 runs with the bat in India's run-chase (195/6). We take a look at Bawa's journey.
Bawa took four wickets in India's opening U-19 WC match against South Africa. He scored a crucial 42 against Ireland in the next match. Bawa fired a historic century (162*) against Uganda U19. He smashed 14 fours and 8 sixes in that match. He was wicketless against Bangladesh and Australia, respectively. Bawa played exceptionally well against England in the final.
Bawa has become the first bowler from India to take a five-wicket haul in the final of an ICC tournament for men (Under-19). The right-arm seamer took five wickets for 31 runs in 9.5 overs. The tally includes a maiden over.
As of now, Bawa has featured in 10 Youth ODIs. He has scored 343 runs at an incredible average of 57.16 and a strike rate of 84.90. The tally includes 24 fours and 10 sixes. Bawa, who bowls medium-pace, scalped 17 wickets at an average of 18.88. He has registered two hauls of four wickets and 1 five-for.
It is interesting to note that Raj Bawa is the grandson of Tarlochan Bawa. The latter was a member of India's hockey side that won Olympic gold in 1948. He contributed with a crucial goal as India defeated Great Britain in the final. Tarlochan had passed away in April 2008. As per TOI, Tarlochan also captained the Punjab hockey side in 1952.
Raj recently opened up on the influence of Indian legend Yuvraj Singh on him. Interestingly, Raj sports the same jersey number as Yuvraj (number 12). "My father trained Yuvraj Singh. I used to watch him when I was a kid. I used to imitate Yuvraj Singh while batting. I watched his batting videos. He's my role model," said Raj.
