Lakshya Raichandani has achieved a major milestone in his young cricket career after being appointed vice-captain of India’s Under-19 team for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka. The selection is being celebrated across Uttarakhand, particularly in his hometown of Haldwani, where coaches, teammates, and cricket officials have hailed the achievement as a proud moment for the state’s sporting community.
The talented batter has earned recognition through consistent performances in domestic cricket, making him one of the country’s most promising young players. His elevation to the leadership group reflects both his impressive run-scoring record and the confidence the selectors have placed in his abilities.
India U-19 Set for Multi-Format Tour of Sri Lanka
India’s Under-19 squad is scheduled to travel to Sri Lanka for a series that includes three One-Day Internationals and two multi-day matches. The tour will provide valuable international exposure for several emerging cricketers as they prepare for future challenges at the highest level.
Before the tour begins, the Indian squad will assemble for a preparatory camp in Bengaluru. Lakshya Raichandani, who has been training with Uttarakhand’s Ranji Trophy squad in Dehradun, is expected to join the national camp ahead of the team’s departure.
The tour is considered an important step in the development of India’s next generation of cricketers, giving players the opportunity to gain experience in overseas conditions while competing against strong opposition.
Lakshya Raichandani Rewarded for Outstanding Domestic Form
Lakshya Raichandani’s selection is the result of an impressive run in age-group and domestic cricket over the past few seasons.
The right-handed batter made an immediate impact after making his Ranji Trophy debut for Uttarakhand. In just four matches during his first season, he registered three half-centuries, showing remarkable composure against experienced bowling attacks.
Among his standout innings were:
- A composed 64 runs against Tripura
- An important 86 in the Ranji Trophy quarter-final against Assam
- A valuable 56 against Karnataka in the semi-final, helping his side compete in a high-pressure knockout fixture
These performances demonstrated his ability to deliver consistently in important matches, strengthening his case for national selection.
Record-Breaking Vijay Merchant Trophy Campaign
One of the biggest highlights of Lakshya Raichandani’s career came during the 2023-24 Vijay Merchant Trophy, where he emerged as the tournament’s leading run-scorer.
Across just five matches, he amassed an extraordinary 833 runs at an average of 138.83, one of the standout batting performances in recent editions of the competition.
His remarkable campaign included:
- One double century
- Three centuries
- Two half-centuries
His consistency and dominance throughout the tournament earned him the prestigious BCCI Naman Award, an honour presented to outstanding performers in Indian domestic cricket.
The award further established Lakshya Raichandani as one of India’s brightest young batting talents.
Continued Success in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy
Lakshya has maintained his impressive form in the 2025-26 Vinoo Mankad Trophy, continuing to score heavily for Uttarakhand.
In five matches this season, he accumulated 308 runs, with scores of 103, 76, 76, 42 and 11. His performances once again highlighted his consistency at the top of the order and reinforced his reputation as a dependable run-scorer.
He has also impressed in the Cooch Behar Trophy, adding another strong chapter to an already impressive youth cricket record.
Journey Began at the Age of Eight
Lakshya Raichandani’s cricket journey started when he was just eight years old. Over the past several years, he has developed his game under the guidance of coach Abhishek Kumar at GNG Cricket Arena in Haldwani.
His coaches have credited his rise to disciplined training, dedication, and a willingness to constantly improve. According to those who have worked closely with him, his work ethic has been just as important as his natural batting talent.
As news of his India U-19 selection spread, celebrations broke out at the academy, where fellow players, coaches, and staff marked the occasion by congratulating the young cricketer on reaching another important milestone.
Cricket Community in Uttarakhand Celebrates the Achievement
Lakshya Raichandani’s appointment as vice-captain has drawn praise from cricket administrators across Uttarakhand.
Officials from the District Nainital Cricket Association (DNCA) and the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand (CAU) described his selection as a proud moment for the state’s cricketing ecosystem. They noted that his success reflects the growing strength of grassroots cricket in Uttarakhand and serves as inspiration for young players aiming to represent India.
His coach Abhishek Kumar praised Lakshya’s commitment, discipline, and determination, saying the honour is the result of years of hard work. Officials and academy representatives also extended their best wishes, expressing confidence that he will make the most of the opportunity on the international stage.
A Promising Future for India’s Young Star
Being named vice-captain of the India Under-19 team is another significant step in Lakshya Raichandani’s rapidly progressing career. With an exceptional record in age-group cricket, strong performances in the Ranji Trophy, and proven leadership qualities, he heads to Sri Lanka carrying high expectations.
The upcoming series will not only test his batting skills against international opposition but also provide an opportunity to showcase his leadership as one of India’s key young cricketers. For Uttarakhand cricket, his rise is a source of immense pride, while for Indian cricket, it represents the emergence of another promising talent capable of making a lasting impact in the years ahead.
