Unsung Hero: Raghu Raghavendra, India’s Throw-down Specialist Behind Asia Cup Triumph
In a spectacular display of skill, the Indian cricket team secured a resounding victory in the Asia Cup 2023 final in Colombo. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, the Indian side bowled out Sri Lanka for a mere 50 runs, with Mohammed Siraj’s remarkable performance of 6/21 in just seven overs. India then efficiently chased down the target in a mere 6.1 overs to claim their eighth Asia Cup title. This triumph is a significant morale boost for the Indian cricket team ahead of the Cricket World Cup, especially considering their previous ICC title win in 2013.
Unsung Hero in Trophy Celebration
During the trophy celebration, several Indian cricket team players proudly hoisted the coveted trophy. It’s a tradition in Indian cricket to grant the privilege of lifting the trophy to the youngest or newest player. One of the first individuals to lift the trophy was the 20-year-old Tilak Varma. However, there was another individual who followed suit, and he wasn’t a player, coach, or physio with the squad.
The man who had the honor of lifting the Asia Cup trophy alongside the players is Raghu Raghavendra, an indispensable member of the Indian squad. Raghu Raghavendra is a ‘throw-down specialist’ whose primary role is to provide throw-downs to the Indian batters during practice sessions with a slinger. It’s worth noting that India reportedly employs two other throwdown specialists.
Indian captain Virat Kohli had previously praised the throw-down specialists, acknowledging their crucial contribution to the team’s success. Kohli emphasized the significance of their roles and urged everyone to remember their names and faces.
Raghu Raghavendra hails from and joined the BCCI from the National Cricket Academy. He holds the distinction of being India’s first throw-down specialist and has provided throw-downs to cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni in the past.
Rohit Sharma’s Applause for Fast Bowlers
Indian captain Rohit Sharma expressed his delight at the performance of his fast bowlers in the Asia Cup final. He highlighted the importance of their variety and the unique skills they bring to the team.
Rohit Sharma commended Mohammed Siraj’s exceptional performance, with the pacer delivering a remarkable spell (6 for 21) that played a pivotal role in India’s comprehensive 10-wicket victory over Sri Lanka. Rohit praised the diverse skill sets and variations of India’s fast bowlers, emphasizing the positive impact they have on the team’s success.
Mohammed Siraj’s spirited performance left him high on adrenaline, prompting the team trainer to intervene and prevent him from overexerting himself.
As India celebrates its Asia Cup victory, it’s essential to recognize the unsung heroes like Raghu Raghavendra and the relentless efforts of the team’s support staff who contribute significantly to the team’s success.
