In a significant endorsement from one of cricket’s most respected voices, former Australian captain and India coach Greg Chappell has thrown his weight behind a young Indian cricketer, predicting that he could emerge as the country’s next big Test all-rounder.
While Indian cricket has long been searching for a dependable all-rounder in the longer format—someone capable of making an impact with both bat and ball—Chappell believes that the answer may lie in a rising youngster who has been quietly making waves in the domestic circuit and India A tours.
Who Is the Young Talent?
Though Chappell did not name the youngster in a broad interview initially, sources close to the development and recent interviews suggest he was referring to Rajvardhan Hangargekar, a promising pace-bowling all-rounder from Maharashtra. Chappell is said to be impressed by the combination of Hangargekar’s raw pace, aggressive batting, and temperament under pressure.
“I’m surprised he hasn’t already been integrated into the Test set-up,” Chappell said. “He has the tools to become a top-class all-rounder—India would do well to invest in him long-term.”
What Makes Him Stand Out?
Hangargekar, who gained attention during the 2022 ICC U19 World Cup, has consistently delivered with both bat and ball. Clocking speeds of 140+ kmph and possessing a powerful lower-order hitting ability, he fits the modern all-rounder mould—someone who can provide depth and balance to any Test side.
- Bowling Strengths: Capable of extracting bounce and swing, he poses a real threat even on flat subcontinental tracks.
- Batting Prowess: His fearless approach has already turned heads in domestic tournaments like the Vijay Hazare Trophy and Ranji Trophy.
India’s Long Search for a Test All-Rounder
India’s Test squad has often relied heavily on either spin-bowling all-rounders like Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, or part-time options. While these players have served the team well, India has lacked a genuine fast-bowling all-rounder since the days of Kapil Dev.
Players like Hardik Pandya were seen as potential solutions but have been unable to play long-format cricket consistently due to fitness issues.
Greg Chappell’s Words Carry Weight
Chappell’s endorsement is significant not only because of his past association with Indian cricket but also due to his reputation for spotting talent early. During his controversial but pivotal tenure as India’s coach, Chappell backed then-youngsters like MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, and RP Singh—many of whom went on to become key figures in Indian cricket.
“India has the structure and talent pool,” Chappell said. “But identifying and nurturing Test specialists early is key. This boy has what it takes.”
What’s Next for the Youngster?
With a strong domestic season, selection for India A, and continued backing from legends like Chappell, the young all-rounder could soon find himself knocking on the doors of the national team. The BCCI’s focus on youth development and an increased number of India A tours provide the perfect platform for his transition.
India’s quest for a game-changing Test all-rounder may finally be nearing an end if Chappell’s prediction proves right. In a team already brimming with talent, the addition of a genuine pace-bowling all-rounder could elevate India’s performance, particularly in overseas conditions.
As Chappell rightly points out: “The future is bright if India trusts its youth.”