Surat's 20-year-old cricket prodigy, Arya Desai, has made history by becoming the first player from the city to be selected for the Indian Premier League (IPL). The left-handed batsman and spin bowler has signed a 20 lakh contract with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) after an impressive performance in the Under-25 cricket circuit.
Arya, who stands at 6.3 feet tall, amassed 991 runs in 13 matches this year at an average of 66, including four centuries, and has also captained the Under-19 Gujarat team. His dedication to the sport and unwavering commitment to fitness and diet has earned him a reputation as a hard-hitting batsman and skilled spin bowler.
The young cricketer's father, Apoorva Desai, who is also the coach of the Indian Under-19 women's team, shared that Arya began his cricket journey under his guidance ten years ago. Local coaches and the Gujarat Cricket Association have played a significant role in Arya's development since Apoorva moved away from Surat five years ago.
Known for his relentless work ethic, Arya trains for over five hours daily, even on holidays, and strictly follows a fitness and diet regimen. To enhance his adaptability, he has practiced in different states to familiarize himself with varying conditions and pitches.
Arya, who is also a music enthusiast, signed the IPL contract on Friday after a successful three-day trial with the Kolkata team. The young player's motivation is derived from various sources, including Virat Kohli's dedication, aggression, and technique. His father believes that Arya's access to the best trainers and coaches in India will help him maximize his potential on the international stage.
