The whole nation is still in celebratory mode after its glamorous win at the T20 World Cup. Along with the star cast players Jasprit Bumrah, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, one more name was hailed, a Karnataka native, Raghu, India’s throwdown specialist.

Amidst the dressing room, between Virat Kohli and other players, Raghavendra stood beaming with a satisfied smile. Hailing from Kumta in Uttara Kannada district, Raghavendra’s journey to the Indian national team is a tale of extraordinary adventure.

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Raghu possesses the rare talent of delivering ‘throwdowns’ to players during practice sessions. This helps the team players adjust their speed and bounce of pitches found in places like Australia and South Africa.

His obsession with cricket began in his childhood dreaming to don the blue jersey someday. Despite his father’s strong disapproval, Raghu’s determination to achieve his dream remained unshattered.

His unwavering love for the game led him to the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) selection trials in Hubbali. Without any relatives or accommodation, he spent two weeks sleeping at the bus stand.

He had to seek refuge at temples and graveyards to sleep at night. However, his struggle paid off when he took four wickets, earning him hostel accommodation from the KLE society. But that was not the end of his struggles, his joy was short-lived when he suffered a hand injury which ended his bowling career.

Raghu was not ready to give up his dream so easily. With utmost determination, Raghu decided to turn to coaching. After moving to Bengaluru, he assisted players at the KIOC academy. His dedication paved the way to the Karnataka Ranji team where he worked without any payment. His selfless service showcases his immense love for cricket. Sachin Tendulkar quickly recognized Raghavendra’s talent, leading to his appointment as a training assistant with the Indian team in 2011.

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By 2011, Raghu became Team India’s training assistant specializing in throwdowns. His ability to bowl at speeds of 150-155 km/hr helped the batsman prepare for tough matches.

His remarkable talent and perseverance attracted several lucrative offers including from England and several IPL teams however, he decided to be with the Indian team.

Raghu’s hard work has finally paid off. A boy who had left his home with just 21 rupees in hand has now emerged as one of the key figures behind India’s World Cup victory. The man on the field with Kumkum on his forehead will be etched into the history of cricket as an extraordinary talent.