Who is Arjun Rajput? The left-handed batsman who came to India’s rescue against Pakistan in the U-19 Asia Cup

NEW DELHI: India Under-19 batsman Arjun Rajput came to his team’s rescue with a brilliant century against Pakistan in the U-19 Asia Cup on Sunday. The Jalandhar youngster showed great composure as India struggled to 22/3 after opting to bat first on the Ministerial 1st turf.Rajput came on at No. 5 with the team in desperate need of a partnership. However, Aaryavir Sehwag, son of former Indian opener Virender Sehwag, could only score 22 off 40 balls. Anvay Dravid, son of former India captain and coach Rahul Dravid, did not make a significant impact either.When wickets fell at the other end, Rajput took charge and played attacking cricket. He used sweeps against the spinners and played aerial shots against the fast bowlers to put pressure on Pakistan.He scored 107 off 85 balls, hitting 11 fours and five sixes before being dismissed. His innings helped India reach 208 before he was dismissed in 46.3 overs.

Who is Arjun Rajput?

The 18-year-old from Jalandhar in Punjab was first called up to the Indian Under-19 team in July this year. He had an impressive run in the 2026-27 Under-19 Vinoo Mankad Trophy, scoring 695 runs in eight innings to help Punjab win the title. He also scored an unbeaten 55 off 33 balls in the final.Rajput earlier grabbed the headlines when he played for Ludhiana Lions in the Sher-E-Punjab T20 Cup where he smashed 78 off just 46 balls against Mohali.Cricket is his passion but his family background is modest.The youngster’s journey to the Indian U-19 team was shaped by years of hard work and family sacrifice. His father Hoti Ram initially earned a living by selling chhole-kulche from a roadside cart in Jalandhar.Later, he moved to a small bakery, from where he continues to prepare and distribute kulchas.Talking about his son’s journey, he told NDTV Sports, “I have been making kulchas for many years. Arjun has been playing cricket since he was five. He is very talented and hardworking.”Rajput began training at the Harbhajan Singh Cricket Academy before continuing his development under coach Vikram Sidhu.He also contributed with the ball against Nepal in India’s tournament opener, taking three wickets in just eight overs.