Laxman, the lone ranger in Delhi under-19's disappointing Cooch Behar campaign

The Delhi under-19 may have failed to make it to knockouts of the Cooch Behar Trophy this year following poor performances but one player has stood out.

Pace bowler Laxman, 19, is the only Delhi player to be among the top 10 bowlers or batsmen in the country. The right-armer picked 29 wickets in six matches at an average of 16.31 per wicket to end as the sixth highest wicket-taker in the country. At one point, he had 18 wickets in two matches.

Laxman hails from Najafgarh where he learnt the basics of cricket.

He has been mentored by Abhinav Bali, former Delhi Ranji Trophy cricketer who has also represented Himachal Pradesh.

"I grew up in Najafgarh. I trained under Devendra Sir there. Then I was mentored by Abhinav Bali," says Laxman, who bowls at a decent pace and is accurate.

Laxman lost his father very early. "I was around 10 when dad passed away."

Since then his mother, a housewife, and brother have backed him.

His brother, who is 32, runs an eatery in Najafgarh and he took it upon himself to ensure that Laxman doesn't face any difficulty in pursuing his career.

"My brother told me that he will take care of everything. He said, 'you don't worry about expenses, you go and play. I will take care of everything'."

Bali, a BCCI match referee now, has also chipped in with financial help. The former player, who has also represented North Zone in Duleep Trophy, is known to help needy players wherever possible.

Laxman idolises Pat Cummins as a bowler and is also inspired by Virat Kohli's style of cricket.

Laxman is grateful for the opportunity.

"I want to thank the DDCA President Rohan Jaitley and the selectors for showing faith in me and giving an opportunity to me for doing well in life. 

Tags : Laxman, Delhi cricket, under-19, cooch behar trophy, Pat Cummins, Virat Kohli