As the Under 19 clinched a narrow win against Bangladesh by a couple of runs today in Colombo, it was Atharva Ankolekar who starred for the team as he snapped five runs in a low scoring thriller. After winning the toss, India Under 19 team elected to bat first. The Indian team made 106 runs as it was Karan Lal who scored the highest runs scoring 37 runs. It was Atharva Ankolekar who snapped five wickets and played a vital role in the team’s victory. Needless to say, the Indian fans are quite proud of Atharva Ankolekar. Along with the netizens, it is also the mother of the left-handed batsmen who is quite proud of his son. Under-19 Asia Cup 2019 Final: India Clinches Title, Beats Bangladesh in a Thriller by Five Runs.

His mother Vaidehi has promised to gift his son something special. While speaking to a newspaper, Hindu, “We can’t wait to see him return tomorrow night. I will definitely cook his favourite non-veg dishes and also give him the gift that he wants.” His mother, who serves as a BEST (The Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport) conductor has struggled hard to make ends meet. Atharva was nine years old when his father passed away and the responsibilities of his mother doubled up.

“I was struggling to keep the house running, so couldn’t give as much attention to the kids as I wished, but Atharva looked after himself and young Parth,” she explained. “His maturity comes to the fore on and off the field,” she further added.

The 18-year-old who will celebrate his birthday on September 19, represents Star Cricket Club and is pursuing a degree in commerce from Rizvi College. The youngster practices regularly at the MIG Cricket Club in Bandra.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 15, 2019 12:21 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).