Watching over Indian colts preparing at the National Cricket Academy for the under-19 World Cup to be held in Australia, Yuvraj Singh went on a nostalgic trip when the Mohammad Kaif-led squad lifted the trophy in Sri Lanka in 2000.
Man of the series of that tournament, Yuvraj reminisced his own experience while passing on some advice to the generation next.
On Under-19 World Cup: It’s a great platform to show to the world what you are capable of. There will be television coverage and crowds, and if you do well here, you get noticed. At the under-19 level one of the issues is suddenly you have to cope with bigger grounds. It happened to me too.
Plus now these events are televised and that too can add to the pressure. And whatever be the age-group, you are playing for India and that is a huge pressure. The players have to adjust to that and also avoid the distractions.
On his experiences playing U-19 WC: I was very very disappointed when I didn't get selected for the tournament held in South Africa, but I made it to the next (event in Sri Lanka). t was an incredible feeling. I didn’t do well in the beginning but Roger Sir (Binny, coach) told me that I will do well and win the Man of the series and it happened that way. I batted well, bowled decently and my fielding was exceptional. You see at that age, you have many insecurities and you need someone to give you that confidence and the same is the case with these players (current bunch). If they can handle all that then they can do well.
On handling pressure: You are representing India but I wouldn't say it’s too much of a pressure. You have to enjoy it and handle it. During the tournament, you have to stay away from other distractions and play well. Television coverage is important and the boys will be excited by it and that mental pressure has to be handled. I would play the games and then watch the highlights. It was fun! You score 30-40 and then come and see yourself bat. It was exciting!
On the present U-19 squad: It is a strong team and we have a good chance. Unmukt Chand and Manan Vohra are extremely talented players. Listen I don’t judge by the number of runs or wickets, I judge by seeing how they play, you pick up the clues. These two look good and they have a good future ahead.
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