Touted as the 'next big thing in Indian cricket' - U-19 team skipper Prithvi Shaw couldn't hold back his emotions after a memorable world cup win. The boys in blue scripted history on Saturday as they blanked Australia by eight wickets in the final of ICC U-19 World Cup at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. With this win, India have become the most successful team as they lifted their record fourth world title.
Captain Prithvi Shaw who played an instrumental role in India's dominating run in the coveted event was unable to express while speaking at the post-match conference. The 18-year old said he will be going back with a lot of memories from the tournament and credited the team, support staff and singled out head coach Dravid for special mention.
"Can't express what I'm feeling right now, really proud. All credit to our support staff for really supporting us for the last two years. Rahul sir himself is a legend, 'The Wall' as we all know him," an elated Shaw said.
"Full credit to our coaching staff. When you have two guys (Dravid and Paras Mhambrey), who have played international cricket, it gives you great insights," the right-handed batsman spoke about their coaches.
He was all praise for centurion Manjot Kalra who played a match-winning knock of unbeaten 101 in the final against Australia.
"It was a crucial hundred from Manjot. (Shubman) Gill was batting so well before he got out. Both our pacers -- Kamlesh (Nagarkoti) and Shivam Mavi, have been executing things so well through the tournament. It's been wonderful playing matches here."
Despite losing the final, Australian skipper Jason Sangha said he was proud of his team for the way they performed throughout the tournament.
"Don't know what to say at the moment. Proud of the guys to get this far in the tournament. The best thing about today was guys tried to grind it. As a captain, you can't complain when everyone's giving 110 per cent," Sangha said.
Sangha, however, admitted that they were completely outplayed by India in the final. "Full credit to India. They played very well. Best of luck for the guys for the IPL. Good for their supporters who came out today."
Shubman Gill, who was adjudged the Man of the Tournament for scoring 372 runs in the tournament, said: "I am really proud of my team. We were fortunate enough to have Rahul sir as our coach. He was just telling me to express my game and keep it on the ground. Had a good time here. It's been very exciting for me. Hope to do well in IPL also."
(With PTI Inputs)
