Two Indian-origin players named in Australia’s U-19 World Cup squad

Australia named its 15-member squad for the U-19 World Cup in Namibia and Zimbabwe, featuring Indian-origin players Aryan Sharma and John James. The team, led by Oliver Peake, also includes players of Sri Lankan and Chinese heritage

Melbourne: Two Indian-origin players — Aryan Sharma and John James — have been named in Australia’s 15-member squad for the men’s U-19 World Cup scheduled to be held in Namibia and Zimbabwe from January 15 to February 6.

Aryan, a handy batter and slow left-arm spinner, and James, a right-arm medium pace all-rounder, were both part of the squad that played against India in the youth Tests and one-dayers in September.

Besides cricketers of Indian heritage, the squad features two players of Sri Lankan origin — Naden Cooray and Nitesh Samuel — and one of Chinese origin, Alex Lee Young.

Australia enters the tournament as defending champion, with Oliver Peake as captain.

“We’re delighted to announce a strong and well-balanced squad for the ICC Under-19 World Cup. Our focus has been on selecting a group with complementary skill sets that provide the best chance of success in the tournament,” head coach Tim Nielsen said in a release.

“The players named have impressed with their performances during the U-19 series against India in September and at the recent National U-19 Championship in Perth.

“It’s an exciting group, some have already experienced senior training environments, while others are progressing rapidly through our pathway.”