Arjun Rajput Shines with Century to Lift India U-19 Against Pakistan

Rajput's Heroics in the ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup

On Sunday, Arjun Rajput, affectionately known as 'Jalandhar’s Dhurandhar' by sports commentators, played a pivotal role in India's Under-19 match against Pakistan by scoring 107 runs. His performance was crucial in rescuing the team from a challenging situation during their Group A clash at the Al Amerat Cricket Ground in Oman, where India was struggling at 160 for 6 at the time of reporting.

Rajput's journey began in Jalandhar, where his father, Hoti Ram, initially sold chhole-kulche from a cart before transitioning to a bakery business.

India opted to bat first after winning the toss but faced immediate setbacks, losing captain Lakshya Raichandani for a duck to Ali Raza on just the second ball.

The Pakistani bowlers maintained tight control, leaving India at a precarious 22 for 3 after 11.4 overs, with VK Vineeth (8 off 29 balls) and Yashbardhan Chauhan (1) both dismissed.

Aaryavir Sehwag, who had scored an unbeaten 70 in the previous match, was caught by Mohammad Sayyam off Niqab Shafiq, leaving India at 42 for 4 in the 17th over.

Taking charge of the innings, Rajput, a left-handed batsman, struck Raza for 10 runs in the 20th over and reached his fifty in just 43 balls, with India at 95 for 5 in the 24th over. Despite Anvay Dravid's dismissal at 86 for 5, Rajput continued to push forward, helping India surpass the 100-run mark in the 26th over. He ultimately completed his century before being dismissed for 107 runs.

Rajput's cricketing journey began at the Harbhajan Singh Cricket Academy. After the academy closed, his coach ensured that his schooling fees were waived, allowing him to continue pursuing his passion for cricket. He made his debut for India U-19 in July during a tour of Sri Lanka.