Anvay Dravid Hits 87 to Anchor India U-19 Against Sri Lanka

Following a top-order collapse, the 17-year-old wicketkeeper-batter staged a masterful rescue to set a competitive total in the second Youth ODI.

HAMBANTOTA — Anvay Dravid, the younger son of legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid, delivered a standout performance for the India Under-19 team on Monday, July 6, 2026, striking a blistering 67-ball 87 against Sri Lanka Under-19 in the second Youth ODI. His aggressive knock was instrumental in steering the visitors to a total of 285 all out after a precarious start at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium.

The Indian side, electing to bat first, suffered an early setback as the top order faltered, leaving the team at 81 for four by the 19th over. Anvay, displaying maturity beyond his years, combined with Arjun Rajput—who contributed a composed 76 off 81 balls—to stitch together a crucial 145-run partnership for the fifth wicket.

Rescuing the Innings

Anvay Dravid’s innings was characterized by both precision and aggression, featuring nine boundaries and a six. According to match reports, he reached his maiden Youth ODI half-century in just 47 deliveries. Walking in at number five, he provided the necessary impetus to stabilize the innings, batting at a strike rate of 129.85.

The partnership between Anvay and Rajput successfully neutralized the initial pressure from the Sri Lankan bowling attack. Their stand kept India in the contest until Anvay was eventually dismissed by left-arm pacer Gimhan Mendis, who proved to be the standout bowler for the hosts with figures of 5-41. Following the fall of the key partnership, the Indian lower order struggled, losing the final three wickets for just 22 runs to conclude the innings in 47.2 overs.

Context and Development

This performance marks a significant milestone for Anvay Dravid, who has been steadily rising through the domestic ranks. Earlier this year, the 17-year-old captained Karnataka’s Under-19 team to the quarter-finals of the Vinoo Mankad Trophy, where he amassed 220 runs across six innings. His selection for the ongoing Sri Lanka tour, which includes three one-day matches and two four-day games, is viewed by scouts and selectors as a critical step in his development for the upcoming Under-19 World Cup.

The Dravid family remains a focal point of domestic cricket, with Anvay’s elder brother, Samit Dravid, also making waves as an all-rounder in the Maharaja Trophy. While the brothers have carved out distinct roles—Anvay as a wicketkeeper-batter and Samit as a pace-bowling all-rounder—both continue to draw comparisons to their father's disciplined approach to the game.

Official Sources

The match details and performance statistics were reported by official match correspondents and monitored by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) junior cricket tracking outlets. The event details have been corroborated by PTI (Press Trust of India).

Quote Section

"According to officials," the rescue partnership between Anvay Dravid and Arjun Rajput was the defining moment of the match, shifting the momentum in favor of the visitors despite a difficult start against the Sri Lankan seamers.

Why It Matters

For the Indian junior selection committee, Anvay's ability to perform under pressure is a vital indicator of his readiness for higher levels of international competition. As India U-19 leads the three-match series 1-0—following a high-scoring victory in the first ODI—this innings reinforces the depth of the current touring squad and the reliability of their middle-order batting.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Player Performance: Anvay Dravid scored 87 off 67 balls, including 9 fours and 1 six.

• Team Total: India U-19 finished with 285 all out in 47.2 overs.

• Partnership: Anvay and Arjun Rajput added 145 runs for the fifth wicket.

• Series Status: India leads the three-match series 1-0.

• Bowling Star: Sri Lanka’s Gimhan Mendis took 5 wickets for 41 runs.

FAQ

How did India recover from the early collapse?

India recovered from 81/4 due to a 145-run partnership between Anvay Dravid and Arjun Rajput, which steadied the innings.

Is Anvay Dravid a wicketkeeper?

Yes, Anvay Dravid is a specialist wicketkeeper-batter, following a role similar to the one his father, Rahul Dravid, held for much of his international career.

What is the significance of this innings for Anvay?

This 87-run knock is his maiden Youth ODI half-century and significantly boosts his contention for the upcoming Under-19 World Cup squad.

How is the India U-19 team performing in this series?

The team is currently leading the three-match series 1-0, having successfully chased down a 321-run target in the series opener.

Source: Press Trust of India (PTI), Times of India Sports