Archive · 15 Jan 2026
U-19 World Cup Stars Inspired by Fathers' Cricket Dreams
The U-19 World Cup is starting soon, and many of the young players have fathers who played cricket.
Some of these fathers had great careers but faced challenges, like being banned or not getting the chance to play at the highest level.
Their sons are now playing in the tournament, inspired by their fathers' stories.
For example, one father was a fast bowler who hit a lot of sixes but got out trying for one too many.
His son is now a smart fast bowler.
Another father held a world record but couldn't play much for his team.
His son is the captain of the Australian team.
It's a big event where these young players get to show their skills and make their families proud.
V Devendran, father of Deepesh, was a hard-hitting batsman for Tamil Nadu but his career ended after joining the unauthorized ICL.
R Sukumar, father of RS Ambrish, captained Tamil Nadu age-groups but never made a first-class debut due to stiff competition.
Clinton Peake, father of Oliver Peake, held a youth test record but struggled to break into the Victoria team.
Andy Blignaut, father of Kian and Michael, had a promising career but it ended due to a rebellion against the cricket board.
Oliver Peake, son of Clinton, is captaining the Australian team in the U-19 World Cup, having previously led them to victory in 2024.
- Who
- Young cricketers at the U-19 World Cup with cricket-playing fathers
- What
- The tournament showcases players inspired by their fathers' cricket careers
- When
- The tournament begins in Zimbabwe and Namibia from Thursday
- Where
- Zimbabwe and Namibia
- Why
- To provide a glimpse into the future of world cricket and the influence of family legacies
- V Devendran
- Father of Deepesh, played for Tamil Nadu, joined ICL, banned from Chepauk
- R Sukumar
- Father of RS Ambrish, captained TN age-groups, never made first-class debut
- Clinton Peake
- Father of Oliver Peake, held youth test record, struggled to break into Victoria team
- Andy Blignaut
- Father of Kian and Michael, career ended due to rebellion, sons playing for Zimbabwe
- Oliver Peake
- Son of Clinton, captained Australia to 2024 U-19 World Cup win
- Deepesh
- Son of V Devendran, fast-bowler in India's U-19 team
- RS Ambrish
- Son of R Sukumar, all-rounder, wears Tamil Nadu state cap
- Kian and Michael
- Sons of Andy Blignaut, playing for Zimbabwe in U-19 World Cup