Rajasthan wonder kid Aditya Garhwal again hit a stunning double century as he smashed his way to 212 off 132 balls against Vidarbha in the Vinoo Mankad trophy match, here today.
Garhwal had played knocks of 263 and 196 earlier in the tournament.
With 763 runs, that had 38 sixes and 68 fours, in five One-day games for the U-19 side, he has caught the attention of senior India players with Suresh Raina presenting him an autographed bat and even Delhi Daredevils scouts monitoring his performance.
"I couldn't believe Suresh Raina had sent a bat for me. The best present I have got so far in my short career. I like to play straight as I am not a powerful man," 18 year old Garhwal said about his exploits at Mohan Nagar ground.
Even former India stumper Sadanand Viswanath, who was umpiring today spoke highly of the man.
"Technically sound and plays straight. Very sinewy and has a bright future. Hope he does well in seniors too," Viswanath, hero of Benson and Hedges Cup told PTI.
Garhwal on his part wanted to leave cricket last year scoring 60 in 5 matches in same tournament.
"I wanted to quit after last year but my coach Anshu Jain convinced me to carry on. My father (electrical engineer) Narendra and mother (chemistry professor) Savita also encouraged and never pressurised on academic front," second year B.Com student said.
Did he know that IPL teams are keeping his track, he said,"No I didn't but one sports management company called up to sign me. Haven't yet decided."
The final word came from Rajasthan coach Shared Joshi. "He comes from good family and comes to training riding Honda City. Hope the adulation keeps him grounded.
