Yuvraj Khatri: The prince of Achham's journey to Nepal's under-19 cricket team

Dhangadhi: Yuvraj Khatri, a 17-year-old from Pitrena village in Payal Ward No. 4, Chowrapati Rural Municipality, Achham, has earned a spot in Nepal's 15-member team for the Under-19 Asia Cup 2024, set to be held in the UAE.

Born in the remote hilly district of Achham in the Far West Province, Yuvraj’s journey to international cricket is a story of determination and resilience. According to his brother, Jeevan Khatri, Yuvraj displayed remarkable discipline and dedication from an early age. Influenced by his father, a key figure in cricket development in Achham, Yuvraj developed a passion for cricket that united his entire village.

In the absence of proper equipment or playgrounds, Yuvraj and his siblings began their cricketing journey by crafting a ball from paper stuffed into old socks and carving bats from forest wood. Despite family debates about prioritizing education or cricket, Yuvraj chose cricket, leaving for Kathmandu at the age of eight to pursue his dream.

In Kathmandu, Yuvraj faced numerous challenges. He joined Angel Sports for cricket training and enrolled at Angel’s Heart School in Manmaiju, balancing studies and sports. Yuvraj’s cricket skills flourished under the guidance of his father, former Nepal Under-19 players Rajbir Singh and Raju Rijal, and coaches from Angel Sports.

Initially a right-handed batsman and medium-fast bowler, Yuvraj transitioned to a leg spinner with batting prowess. His action resembled that of Nepali star bowler Sandeep Lamichhane, earning him the nickname "Little Sandy." Inspired by Lamichhane and Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli, Yuvraj honed his skills with aspirations to emulate their success.

Yuvraj’s talent quickly gained recognition. At 13, he captained Kathmandu’s senior team and led Bagmati Province’s Under-15 team at 14. Although he was selected for Sudurpaschim Province’s senior team, ICC rules disqualified him due to his age. Nevertheless, he excelled as vice-captain of the Under-15 Sudurpaschim team, which later won the national tournament.

After stellar performances in multiple provincial and national tournaments, Yuvraj secured a spot in the Nepal Under-19 team. At 17, he is the youngest player on the squad and is currently in grade 10.

The Nepali Under-19 team is now in Dubai for the Under-19 Asia Cup 2024, where they will face Sri Lanka on November 29, followed by matches against Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Yuvraj’s inspiring journey from a remote village to the national stage serves as a testament to his hard work and unwavering dedication to cricket.