Juniors should be included for Challenger

This was Binny’s second assignment after the India A tour of West Indies.

Speaking at length about the Youth World Cup, Binny said the tournament was well organised. “We had pretty good competition. We faced the best sides. The only problem was the weather. The tournament had a wet start. However, when sun came out finally, it was fantastic cricket out there,” said the coach.

Talking about the team’s success, Binny said: “We had a balanced side. Most of the players had enough exposure at the domestic level. I think it was the experience factor that fetched us the goal. These youngsters have good cricketing brains. On the field, they took the initiative and came up with success. They enjoyed the game, and that’s crucial in a team’s success.”

Regarding his getting on with the team, Binny said this particular age group boys were easy to handle. “They are keen listeners and students of the game. They pick up things easily. They always want to excel. My job was made easy.”

Binny said he was impressed by the players’ performances, especially Reetinder Singh Sodhi, Mohammed Kaif (captain) and Srivatsa. “They have a good future. If they are nurtured in a proper way, they can be the winning material for India,” he stated.

He said he was pleased with Ajay Ratra, the wicket-keeper. “He did an excellent job behind the wickets. He really motivated our medium pacers,” he added.

As regards the age-old problem of overage, he said it was up to the respective Boards to handle the situation. “If we do not take stringent measures, the boys who perform in this age group might fizzle out once they reach a higher level,” said Binny who is also an avid golfer and nature lover.

Regarding his future plans, Binny said he would concentrate on his academy at the present. “As it stands, there is nothing coming up for the youngsters. They are preparing for the Ranji Super League.”

Binny agreed there should be a camp in between the tournaments. “They should have a camp or an academy for these youngsters. It would be much useful if we can train them all along rather than 10-15 days before a tournament.”

Binny, who was the manager of the Karnataka Ranji Trophy team three seasons ago and presently is a member of the state selection committee, feels the under-19 team should be included in the Challenger Series (where three teams — India Seniors, India A and India B — take part).

“As it is, many of them are rubbing shoulders with senior players in the Ranji Trophy. But playing against such seniors would definitely be a different experience for the boys,” he said.

Binny signed off with: “India has a bright future in cricket. If the board takes a step in the right direction, we may still be the champions.”