While he is still awaiting his debut for the senior Mumbai team, 17-year-old Abhigyan Kundu from Navi Mumbai has already captured national attention with his stellar performances for the India Under-19 cricket squad. The young wicketkeeper-batter has emerged as a key player, showcasing remarkable skill and consistency on the international youth stage.
A Meteoric Rise in Youth Cricket
Kundu's ascent began in May when he was appointed vice-captain for India's Under-19 tour of England, with Mumbai's Ayush Mhatre leading the side. He immediately made an impact, scoring a quickfire 34-ball 45 not out to secure a six-wicket win in the first Youth ODI. His prowess continued in the longer format, where he played crucial innings of 90 and 65 in the two Youth Tests against England, helping India secure a fighting draw.
The teenager's golden run extended to Australia in September. In the Youth ODI series at Brisbane, Kundu was instrumental in India's 3-0 clean sweep, amassing 158 runs in just two matches at an astonishing average of 158.00 and a strike rate of 114.49. His scores of 87 not out and 71 demonstrated his dominance, and he was rested for the final match. His form earned him the 'Player of the Series' award in November after scoring two centuries in the Under-19 Challengers Trophy in Lucknow.
Record-Breaking Double Century and Kambli Comparisons
Kundu truly announced his arrival on the global stage during the Under-19 Asia Cup in Dubai. In a breathtaking display, he smashed an unbeaten 209 off just 125 balls against Malaysia, a knock that included nine sixes and 17 fours. This monumental innings made him the first Indian and only the second player in the world to score a double century in Youth ODIs. His aggressive left-handed style has drawn comparisons to former Indian batting star Vinod Kambli from keen observers of the game.
"We were very happy. It was a great moment for all of us. We were awaiting such a performance from him for a long time," said his proud father, Abhishek Kundu, speaking to TOI. He revealed that his son has already scored 125 centuries across various school and age-group tournaments, including the Harris Shield, Giles Shield, and BCCI events.
Road to the Under-19 World Cup and a Supportive Journey
All eyes are now on Kundu as he prepares for the upcoming ICC Under-19 World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia. India will begin their campaign on January 15 against the USA in Harare. "It's the proudest moment of our family... It's definitely a big moment for him because he has trained hard," Abhishek added.
The cricketer's journey began at the tender age of five under coach Chetan Jadhav in Vashi. His dedication was immense, often involving facing up to 5,000 balls a day in practice. To support his cricket, his family moved him to Anjuman Islam School, known for its strong cricket program. "We don't have a cricketing background. I am an engineer with TCS... However, as he picked up the game and started to show dedication... we were confident," Abhishek explained about supporting his son's unconventional career path.
Inspired by his wicketkeeper coach and legends like MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly, and Sachin Tendulkar—whom he once met briefly—Kundu is now rigorously following a BCCI-mandated schedule. As he gears up for the World Cup, this Navi Mumbai prodigy represents the exciting future of Indian cricket.
