Raghu has played a crucial role in propelling both Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli to great heights.
In the wake of India's triumphant victory in the T20 World Cup 2024, the entire nation is ablaze with jubilation. Amidst the jubilant celebrations in the dressing room, amongst cricketing legends such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah, a proud native of Karnataka stands beaming with satisfaction. This individual is none other than Raghavendra, affectionately known as Raghu, India's esteemed throwdown specialist.
Hailing from the quaint town of Kumta in the Uttara Kannada district, Raghavendra's path to Team India is nothing short of remarkable. His fervent passion for cricket ignited during his formative years, as he harbored dreams of one day representing his country in the revered blue jersey. Despite facing opposition from his father, a schoolteacher who failed to comprehend his son's fervor for the sport, Raghu's resolve remained unyielding.
A transformative experience in Mumbai under the tutelage of renowned cricket coach Ramakant Achrekar further stoked the flames of his passion. Upon his return to Kumta, Raghu persisted in his pursuit of cricket, defying his father's wishes. His unshakeable devotion to the game propelled him to participate in the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) selection trials in Hubballi, despite grappling with financial constraints and a lack of accommodation.
Struggles
Without any relatives or hostel accommodations in Hubballi, Raghu spent approximately two weeks sleeping at the bus stand. When confronted by the police, he sought shelter at a nearby Hanuman temple, and eventually, the graveyard near KSCA grounds became his place of residence. For four and a half years, Raghu endured the harsh conditions of the graveyard, fueled by his passion for cricket.
His perseverance paid off when he took four wickets in a game for the Dharwad zone team, earning him hostel accommodation from the KLE Society. However, his happiness was short-lived as he soon suffered a hand injury that put an end to his bowling career.
Faced with the end of his playing career, Raghu turned to coaching. He relocated to Bengaluru, where he assisted players at the KIOC Academy. His dedication caught the attention of former cricketers who recommended him to KSCA, where he volunteered for the Karnataka Ranji team. His selfless service eventually led to a position at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), where he worked without compensation, supporting coaches and earning their trust.
Success
In 2008, Raghu joined the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as a support staff member at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Within three years, he rose to the position of Team India's training assistant, specializing in throwdowns. His exceptional ability to bowl at speeds ranging from 150 to 155 km/h during practice sessions proved invaluable in helping Indian batsmen prepare for competitive matches. Virat Kohli attributed much of the team's success against fast bowlers to Raghu's expertise, while former captain MS Dhoni affectionately dubbed him as Team India's "foreign bowler."
From humble beginnings, including a period of sleeping in a graveyard, Raghu has now ascended to a prominent role traveling the globe with Team India. International coaches frequently seek his counsel, acknowledging his remarkable talent and unwavering commitment to the sport.
Also read| India star crowned No. 1 T20I all-rounder after World Cup final heroics
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 "Meet Raghu Raghavendra, the unsung hero behind Team India's T20 World Cup 2024 triumph")
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