Saurabh Netravalkar: A Journey Full Circle
New Delhi and Mumbai-born Saurabh Netravalkar has etched his name in cricket history as an integral part of the USA squad, particularly as they prepare for the T20 World Cup. On February 7, he is set to take the field at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, a venue that holds significant emotional weight for him. It’s a ground where his cricketing journey began, yet it also marks the culmination of an unexpected and somewhat unconventional path.
From Dreams to Decisions
Netravalkar’s cricketing journey commenced on the busy streets of Mumbai. His talent was evident early on, leading him to represent India in the 2010 U-19 World Cup. However, despite sharing the field with promising stars like Suryakumar Yadav and Shardul Thakur in first-class matches, he struggled to break into the Indian national team. In 2015, faced with the challenge of making a life-changing decision, he chose to pursue higher studies in the United States, accepting an offer from Cornell University for a master’s degree in computer science.
This move marked a significant shift in Netravalkar’s life. His focus shifted from cricket to academics, and it seemed that his playing days were behind him. Yet, fate had other plans. The call of cricket would eventually bring him back to the game that started it all.
A Second Chance at Cricket
Fast forward to today, Netravalkar stands on the brink of what he describes as a “full circle moment.” Training in Sri Lanka with the USA squad, he reflects on the emotions that will undoubtedly wash over him as he prepares to step onto the turf of Wankhede. “It is an emotional moment, for sure. Kind of like a full circle moment because I started playing cricket in Mumbai and gave up on the sport and moved to the US. International cricket wasn’t even a thought,” he said. His return to cricket, fueled by passion and perseverance, has not only reignited his love for the game but also granted him a unique opportunity to share the field with his family and friends watching from the stands.
Balancing Act: Cricket and Career
Netravalkar juggles his cricketing aspirations alongside his professional career in technology, working at Oracle. Despite the challenges of managing these two worlds, he is driven by the thrill of competing at the international level. He recalls, “I am looking forward to giving my best effort. My family and friends will be there,” which only amplifies the significance of this event for him.
Adapting to Indian Conditions
As the USA squad gears up for the T20 World Cup, Netravalkar is acutely aware of the challenges posed by Indian conditions. Unlike the slightly bowler-friendly pitches experienced in the previous World Cup held in the USA and the Caribbean, the sub-continent provides a different set of challenges. “On flatter wickets, more than the skills, you keep developing different kinds of slower balls, and hope that the ball swings with the new ball. That is unpredictable as well,” he emphasizes. His preparations include training with wet balls to adapt to potential dew conditions, illustrating the thoughtfulness behind his game strategy.
The Rise of USA Cricket
Netravalkar has witnessed a remarkable evolution in USA cricket. After an impressive run in the last World Cup, where the team reached the Super 8 stage, expectations have skyrocketed. He notes, “You could say we’ve gone up for sure. More of our cricketers are getting gigs in franchise leagues around the world.” This influx of talent and opportunity hints at a promising future for cricket in the U.S., despite the long road ahead in building infrastructure.
A Lifestyle of Purpose
Netravalkar’s clarity of thought can be partly attributed to his commitment to a vegan lifestyle. This choice has not only influenced his physical well-being but has also encouraged a deeper inquiry into self-improvement and sustainability. “As a person, it’s been transformative. I’m trying to become a better person, delve deep into philosophy, spirituality, good habits, and climate change,” he shares, exemplifying a holistic approach that transcends cricket.
Saurabh Netravalkar’s journey is one of resilience, passion, and unexpected opportunities. As he prepares to step onto the hallowed grounds of Wankhede Stadium, he not only carries his dreams but also the hopes of those who have supported him along the way.