Another Indian-origin cricketer and a by-product of the Chatsworth Cricket Academy, Jonathan Vandiar, who has been named in South Africa's 30-man World Cup squad, is being touted as 'the next big thing'
Another Indian-origin cricketer and a by-product of the Chatsworth Cricket Academy, Jonathan Vandiar, who has been named in South Africa's 30-man World Cup squad, is being touted as 'the next big thing'.
Chief selector Andrew Hudson is impressed by Vandiar, and expects the 20-year old to break into the national squad soon.
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An attacking left-handed opening batsman, Vandiar first came into the limelight when he emerged as the leading run-scorer for South Africa at the 2008 Under-19 World Cup in Malaysia. He is in line to make his International Twenty20 debut against India on January 9.
"Growing up, I idolised Sachin Tendulkar just like thousands of Indians in Durban. I want to meet him properly. The reason I love him so much is his humility and hunger for runs. I also idolised Michael Bevan because I have a similar game," Vandiar, an explosive batsman, who strikes at over 150 for the Lions, added.
"My game is all about entertaining people. That's why I love Virender Sehwag and Adam Gilchrist. They always played to appease the crowds. I have been to India a few times. I was there to watch the Kings XI Punjab," he said. If Vandiar does play against India on January 9, it will be the biggest possible stage for the youngster to press his case for World Cup selection.
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