Lakshya Raichandani has been named captain of the India U-19 side for three youth ODIs against Australia U-19, with the series set to begin on September 18, 2026. The 17-year-old top-order batter from Uttarakhand, who also bowls right-arm off-spin, will lead the side in what is a significant appointment at the junior level.
The squad for the series includes Aaryavir Sehwag, son of former India opener Virender Sehwag, and Anvay Dravid, son of former India head coach and batting great Rahul Dravid.
The India U-19 camp began on September 9, 2026, with strategy discussions scheduled to take place during the camp ahead of the series.
Raichandani will serve as vice-captain for two unofficial Tests that follow the ODI leg, scheduled between September 28 and October 8, 2026.
"I am very excited. It’s a matter of honour. It’s also a huge responsibility and an added responsibility. I want to lead the team by ensuring that everyone feels included, and I am really looking forward to it," Lakshya told in an interview with Indiatv.
The three ODIs will be played in Rajkot on September 18, 21 and 23, while the two unofficial Tests are set for Rajkot on September 27 and Ahmedabad on October 5.
What has Raichandani's recent form looked like?
Raichandani arrives at this assignment in strong form across formats. Against Sri Lanka U-19, he scored a double century and a century across two Youth Tests, adding two half-centuries in the Youth ODIs as well. One of those innings against Sri Lanka U-19 was a score of 207 runs, underlining his ability to build large innings at this level.
At the domestic level, Raichandani has been in action for Mussoorie Thunder in the Dehradun T20 League 2026. He is the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament, having accumulated 124 runs in four matches, including a half-century. That consistent output across formats strengthens his credentials as the right choice to lead the side into this series.
"I haven't had a chat with anyone yet. Our camp starts on 9th September, so we will meet there and discuss the strategy to drive the team. However, if you ask me, I want to build a positive environment and keep the best interests of the team ahead of my own. I want to back everyone and make sure that they don’t feel the pressure. I hope we drive towards the same goal and everyone puts their best foot forward," he expressed ahead of linking up with the squad.
Lakshya on leading big names in the squad
The presence of Aaryavir Sehwag and Anvay Dravid in the squad has drawn considerable attention. Aaryavir is the son of Virender Sehwag, one of India's most destructive openers, while Anvay is the son of Rahul Dravid, who served as India's head coach before stepping down from that role. Both carry high-profile surnames into a competitive junior setup.
"The interest of the team will always come any individual. I want to lead in that manner. Hope we build a positive environment through that and we also need to ensure that no one feels left out. It’s all about bringing everyone under one umbrella," he responded to the query of leading the sons of legendary India cricketers in the upcoming series.
Raichandani, as captain, will be expected to keep the focus on team performance rather than the spotlight that naturally follows players from such celebrated cricketing families. The camp that began on Wednesday, September 9, is expected to give the squad time to align on plans before the first ODI in Rajkot on September 18.
