The next chapter in Indian cricket’s legacy may have quietly begun. Anvay Dravid, son of legendary batter and former India head coach Rahul Dravid, has been selected for Team C in the upcoming Men’s U-19 One-Day Challenger Trophy—a crucial stepping stone for young talent eyeing national honors.
Set to take place in Hyderabad later this month, the tournament will see Anvay don the gloves and pads as a wicketkeeper-batter, bringing his aggressive strokeplay and sharp glovework to the national stage .
More Than Just a Famous Name
While the Dravid surname carries immense weight in Indian cricket, Anvay has been steadily carving his own identity. His selection isn’t courtesy of legacy—it’s earned through performance.
In the recently concluded Vinoo Mankad Trophy (India’s premier U-19 inter-zonal tournament), Anvay smashed 220 runs across matches at a strike rate of 94, including a quickfire 78 against South Zone. His ability to accelerate in the death overs and tidy work behind the stumps caught selectors’ attention .
What Is the U-19 One-Day Challenger Trophy?
Organized by the BCCI, this annual tournament splits emerging U-19 talent into three teams—A, B, and C—pitting them in a competitive 50-over format. It serves as a vital scouting ground for the next India U-19 World Cup squad and often features future international stars.
Past participants include Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, and Arshdeep Singh—all of whom used this platform to fast-track their careers.
Anvay Dravid: Style and Substance
Unlike his father—renowned for his classical technique and patience—Anvay is a modern batter: compact, quick between wickets, and unafraid to target spinners over mid-wicket. Coaches describe him as “instinctive” and “high-energy,” with a strong work ethic that mirrors Rahul Dravid’s famed discipline.
“He doesn’t lean on the name,” said a Karnataka age-group coach. “He arrives early, stays late, and asks questions. That’s Dravid DNA—but his own journey.”
Anvay Dravid’s Vinoo Mankad Trophy 2025 Stats
| Matches | Runs | Highest Score | Strike Rate | Wicketkeeping Dismissals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 220 | 78 | 94.0 | 8 (6 catches, 2 stumpings) |
These numbers reflect a well-rounded performer—exactly what selectors look for in a future all-format player.
Pressure or Privilege?
Being Rahul Dravid’s son comes with intense public scrutiny. Every innings is analyzed, every dismissal dissected. Yet Anvay has so far handled the spotlight with maturity beyond his years.
In a rare interview last year, he said: “I’m proud of my dad, but I want people to see me for me—not just as his son.”
His inclusion in Team C is a testament to that self-driven ethos.
What’s Next?
If Anvay impresses in Hyderabad, a spot in the India U-19 squad for the 2026 World Cup in Sri Lanka could be within reach. More importantly, he’ll continue writing his own story—one cover drive at a time.
As fans watch with hopeful eyes, one thing is clear: the Dravid legacy lives on—but this time, with a new rhythm.
Sources
Times of India,
BCCI Official Website,
ESPNCricinfo – Vinoo Mankad Trophy Stats