Aryan Sharma, John James and Yash Deshmukh might be nourishing dreams of making it big in Australian cricket, but they have not snapped the inner connection with India, the country of their origin.
Australia Under-19’s multi-format home series, beginning at Brisbane on Sunday against their Indian counterparts, is a splendid opportunity for them to meet some bright talents from the subcontinent and exchange notes.
But it is also a chance for them to reminisce about their families’ journey from India to Australia years back, the first stepping stone in finding a sporting career Down Under.
John James, a bowling all-rounder, son of Jomesh and Smitha, who migrated from Wayanad, Kerala, to Australia, for better career opportunities, initially found it tough to adapt to Australian sporting culture.
“I think the biggest challenge I had faced was when we moved an hour away from Sydney to the Central Coast. Getting to and from training and games were tough but my parents made it easy by taking time off work ensuring I got the opportunity to play the best cricket possible,” James told PTI from Brisbane.
“Initially, not many teams were willing to sign me up but I am grateful to Asquith Rugby League Cricket Club (Asquith Cricket Club) for signing me up halfway through the season.”
Aryan said Cricket Victoria’s pathways programme has played a massive role in his development as players.
“I started playing at Epping Cricket Club, where Andrew Bennett helped me along with Michael Rogeneda. Now at Carlton where I have been playing cricket for the last 3 years, Evan Gulbis and Bruce help me a lot.
“Also, big thanks to Cricket Victoria and coaches Tom Evans, Travis Dean and Jon Holland (former Australian Test cricketer).”
Aryan cherishes the dream of meeting star batter Virat Kohli, possibly during India’s upcoming one-day series in November.
“My favourite player is Virat Kohli. He’s always been someone I’ve drawn inspiration from. If I ever get the chance to meet and talk with him, it would be an incredible experience.
“What inspires me most is the way he has impacted Indian cricket, and I want to do the same for Australia, to play with passion and make a difference for my country,” he added.
However, Deshmukh lauded Sydney-based veteran coach Mitch Yearsley for helping him leap over the hurdles.
“I’d say, Mitch Yearsley (veteran coach based in Sydney), my green shield coach and my current coach outside of the club as well, has had a big impact on developing my game from when I first started playing till now,” reflected Deshmukh.
An ardent Kohli fan, Deshmukh now wants to find a berth in the Australian team for next year’s ICC U19 World Cup, to be held across Zimbabwe and Namibia, along with other Indian origin players.
( With PTI Inputs )
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