Bulawayo:
India’s rising cricket star Kanishk Chauhan once again delivered when it mattered most, producing a match-winning all-round performance against Pakistan in the Under-19 Cricket World Cup in Zimbabwe. The talented youngster from Jhajjar, Haryana, was rewarded for his efforts with the Player of the Match award, marking yet another milestone in his fast-growing international journey.
As celebrations erupted back home in his village with fireworks and joy-filled gatherings, Kanishk Chauhan’s family watched with pride as their son’s name echoed across cricketing circles. His mother, Sarita Chauhan, expressed deep emotion after the match, saying she always believed her son would “create a storm” whenever given the opportunity.
The performance in Bulawayo was not just another good day at the office. It was a reminder that Kanishk Chauhan has developed a reputation for rising to the occasion in high-pressure India–Pakistan encounters, something very few players achieve at such a young age.
A Calm Performer on the Big Stage
The India vs Pakistan clash in the Under-19 World Cup carried enormous expectations, pressure, and global attention. For young players, such matches often test mental strength as much as cricketing skill. Yet, Kanishk Chauhan looked composed from the moment he stepped onto the field.
Batting in the middle order, he played a crucial knock of 35 runs from just 29 balls, striking four boundaries and one six. His innings helped India maintain momentum at a time when wickets were falling at the other end. Rather than playing flashy shots, Kanishk focused on smart shot selection, rotating the strike, and punishing loose deliveries.
With the ball, he once again proved his value as a dependable all-rounder. Bowling with discipline and control, Kanishk Chauhan picked up one important wicket, breaking a threatening partnership and slowing Pakistan’s chase. His contribution in both departments played a decisive role in India securing victory.
At the end of the match, the officials had little hesitation in naming him Player of the Match, underlining the impact of his all-round performance.
A Familiar Script Against Pakistan
What made the moment even more special was the sense of déjà vu surrounding Kanishk Chauhan’s achievement. This was the second time he had earned a Player of the Match award against Pakistan in a major youth tournament.
Earlier, during the Under-19 Asia Cup in Dubai, Kanishk Chauhan had delivered an unforgettable performance against the same opponents. In that high-stakes contest, he scored 48 vital runs and claimed three wickets, completely turning the match in India’s favour. That performance earned him his first major Player of the Match award and placed him firmly on the radar of selectors and cricket analysts.
Now, with another standout display against Pakistan at the World Cup, Kanishk Chauhan has shown that his earlier success was no coincidence. He has developed a knack for stepping up in pressure-filled encounters, a trait that separates good players from great ones.
“I Knew He Would Do Something Special,” Says Proud Mother
Back home, emotions ran high as news of Kanishk Chauhan’s achievement spread across his village. His mother, Sarita Chauhan, spoke with visible pride and emotion while reflecting on her son’s journey.
She said she was not surprised by his performance, revealing that she had complete faith in his abilities. According to her, she always felt that whenever Kanishk played against Pakistan, he would leave a mark.
Sarita Chauhan shared that she could only sleep peacefully after speaking to her son late at night following the match. During their conversation, Kanishk shared the joy of the team’s victory and his Player of the Match recognition with the entire family.
For a mother who has witnessed years of sacrifice, travel, and discipline behind the scenes, the moment felt deeply rewarding.
Celebrations Light Up the Village
As soon as Kanishk Chauhan was announced as Player of the Match, celebrations erupted in his hometown. Villagers burst firecrackers, distributed sweets, and gathered to watch replays of the match. The sense of pride was not limited to his family alone; the entire community felt connected to his success.
For many young aspiring cricketers in the area, Kanishk’s journey has become a source of inspiration. His rise from a small village in Haryana to the global stage of an Under-19 World Cup sends a powerful message about perseverance, discipline, and belief.
From Jhajjar to the World Stage: Who Is Kanishk Chauhan?
Kanishk Chauhan’s story is one of quiet determination and years of hard work.
Born on September 26, 2006, Kanishk hails from Kulana village in Jhajjar district, Haryana. His father, Pradeep Kumar, is a farmer, while his mother, Sarita Chauhan, manages the household. Kanishk is the only son in the family, and from an early age, it was clear that cricket was more than just a hobby for him.
Even as a young child, he showed an unusual level of interest and focus towards the sport. Recognising his passion, his parents supported him despite limited resources and the uncertainties that come with a sporting career.
Early Start and First Academy Experience
Kanishk Chauhan’s cricketing journey began remarkably early. At just four years old, he joined a cricket academy in Ghaziabad, where he received his first formal coaching. While most children his age were still exploring different activities, Kanishk was already learning the basics of batting, bowling, and fitness.
By the time he turned eight, his talent had become more evident. He attended trials in Sirsa, where he caught the attention of coaches due to his natural all-round abilities. The training facilities at Dera Sacha Sauda’s academy impressed the family, leading to a life-changing decision.
In 2014, the Chauhan family shifted from Jhajjar to Sirsa to ensure Kanishk could train regularly at the Shah Ji Satnam Stadium. It was a major sacrifice, but one that would eventually shape his future.
Years of Discipline and Belief
Training at Dera Sacha Sauda played a significant role in shaping Kanishk Chauhan’s discipline and mental strength. His mother has often spoken about how the family gradually developed faith in the system there, initially influenced by Kanishk’s grandmother, who strongly believed in it.
Over the years, long training sessions, fitness drills, and competitive matches became part of Kanishk’s daily routine. While success did not come overnight, the foundation being built was strong.
It took nearly 14 to 15 years of consistent training before Kanishk Chauhan finally earned his first international opportunity, proving that patience and persistence can pay off.
International Breakthrough in 2024
The year 2024 marked a turning point in Kanishk Chauhan’s career. After years of domestic performances and age-group cricket, he was selected for India’s Under-19 team for the tour of England.
On English soil, Kanishk made an immediate impact. He featured in five One-Day matches, scoring 114 runs and taking eight wickets. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball impressed the coaching staff and selectors alike.
At the end of the tour, Kanishk Chauhan was named Best All-Rounder of the Series, a recognition that boosted his confidence and reputation within Indian cricket circles.
Consistency Leads to Bigger Opportunities
Following his impressive showing in England, opportunities continued to come Kanishk Chauhan’s way. His consistent performances earned him selection for the tour of Australia, where he featured in the Challenger Trophy and matches against Afghanistan.
Each tournament added to his experience, helping him adapt to different conditions and opponents. His growing maturity as a cricketer was evident in his decision-making and composure under pressure.
These performances eventually led to his selection for the Under-19 Asia Cup, a crucial stepping stone toward World Cup contention.
Asia Cup Performance That Changed Everything
The defining moment before the World Cup came during the Under-19 Asia Cup. In the league-stage match against Pakistan on December 14, Kanishk Chauhan delivered a performance that many still talk about.
Batting with responsibility, he scored 48 runs, anchoring the innings during a tense phase. With the ball, he was even more devastating, picking up three wickets and dismantling Pakistan’s batting lineup.
His all-round brilliance earned him the Player of the Match award and effectively sealed his place in India’s Under-19 World Cup squad. For selectors, it was proof that Kanishk could handle pressure at the highest youth level.
World Cup Confirmation in Bulawayo
Fast forward to the Under-19 World Cup in Zimbabwe, and Kanishk Chauhan once again proved why he was selected. His Player of the Match performance against Pakistan in Bulawayo served as a confirmation of his growth and reliability.
Scoring quick runs, delivering timely breakthroughs, and maintaining composure under pressure, Kanishk showed the qualities of a future senior international cricketer.
For Indian cricket, he represents a new generation of all-rounders who can influence matches in multiple ways.
Also read: Kanishk Chauhan Shines in Under-19 World Cup Final as India Clinch Historic Title Victory
A Name to Watch in Indian Cricket
As the tournament progresses, expectations around Kanishk Chauhan continue to rise. Coaches and experts believe that his balanced skill set, combined with a calm temperament, makes him a valuable asset for the future.
While there is still a long road ahead, performances like these indicate that Kanishk Chauhan is not just a one-tournament wonder. His journey reflects years of preparation, family support, and self-belief.
For now, India celebrates another memorable victory over Pakistan, and a proud mother watches her son take confident steps toward a promising cricketing career.
