Young Uttarakhand batter Lakshya Raichandani said he is “honoured” to lead the India U19 side in the upcoming three unofficial ODIs against Australia U19, beginning September 18.

Raichandani, who currently plays for Mussoorie Thunder, will captain India’s U19 white-ball side. He will also serve as vice-captain in the two unofficial Tests scheduled from September 28 to October 8.

Speaking exclusively to IANS, Raichandani reflected on the opportunity and his preparations for the series in Rajkot and Ahmedabad.

“It is a great opportunity; it’s an honour to be a captain for the Indian team,” he said. “It is an added responsibility, so I am very excited for this opportunity, and I want to lead everyone, create a positive environment and give my 100%.”

Raichandani’s family is also excited to see him lead the national junior side when Australia arrive in India.

“(My) Family is very excited and happy, but as I said, it is a great opportunity, and it is an added responsibility, so it is very good, and I am looking forward to the captaincy,” Raichandani added.

The 17-year-old earned the captaincy after producing a series of impressive performances in the U19 circuit. He scored a double century and a century in two Youth Tests against Sri Lanka U19 and followed that with two half-centuries in the two Youth ODIs against the same opposition.

However, Raichandani said he will stick to his usual preparation rather than make major changes based on Australia’s playing style.

“Preparation is the same as what I normally do, and it is going on. I don’t change much when seeing their brand of cricket. But we will see their style of play through the video footage, and we will make a plan for them,” he added.

Alongside his impressive performances for India U19, Raichandani recently scored a 76 in the Dehradun T20 League. He said his priority remains contributing to the team rather than focusing solely on his individual performances.

“I wanted to play for the team, and I wanted to contribute for the team, and my intent was the same. It was positive. I have a normal mindset whether I go well or not, from a confidence point of view. I have confidence, but I wanted to play for the team and contribute.

“It was very good. My aim has been for the team. The form gives you confidence, but I will keep the same mindset,” he said.

Raichandani also spoke about the inaugural Dehradun T20 League, describing it as an important stepping stone for young cricketers from Uttarakhand’s grassroots.

“It is a very exciting league, and it is a very good tournament for Dehradun’s local players. They will get a very good opportunity, and it is a very good tournament to improve their T20 game for UPL. It is a very good platform, as players will get to learn a lot from experienced players,” he added.