Mumbai: India would be eyeing their fourth title in the U-19 World Cup as the team led by talented Mumbai batsman Prithvi Shaw leave for New Zealand on Thursday. The tournament begins on January 12. Coach Rahul Dravid is aware of the challenges in New Zealand. The colts had a preparatory camp in Bengaluru.
“The conditions will pose an exciting challenge. It’s going to be very different. I think none of our guys have been to New Zealand before. In our training camp, we tried to replicate the conditions but we couldn’t really do it. Having played on those wickets before, I feel it is very unique,” said Dravid.
Dravid said it was a great opportunity for the young players to learn. “I am sure there will be a lot of expectations. If they can make it to the India A team in 6-8 months, it will be great. We see this tournament as a stepping stone,” added Dravid. Dravid reckoned that with time the right opportunity would arrive for these players.
