Raj Limbani’s coach, Digvijay Singh Rathwa, revealed that former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan was impressed with Limbani’s pace and offered him valuable advice on bowling in South African conditions.
Raj Limbani’s exceptional in-swing bowling was a highlight of the U-19 World Cup. Despite his impressive performance in the final, where he claimed three wickets for 38 runs, India fell short of victory.
Limbani made significant breakthroughs in the final by dismissing Sam Konstas, Ryan Hicks, and Charlie Anderson. His proficiency in inducing in-swing deliveries resulted in most of his 11 wickets throughout the tournament. Despite this, his coach, Digvijay Singh Rathwa, reveals that Limbani had to diligently develop his in-swinging technique just last year.
Rathwa shared that Limbani’s forte had always been the outswinger, and Irfan Pathan was impressed with his pace but advised him to work on developing his inswing to add unpredictability to his bowling. Rathwa acknowledged the challenge of learning a new skill at 18 but remembered advice from former India bowling coach Bharat Arun about the necessity of patience when coaching fast bowlers.
Limbani had concerns about whether developing the in-swinger would alter his bowling style, but Rathwa, who had faced his own challenges in his career, provided guidance. Rathwa, who is 28 years old and was in the same batch as Hardik Pandya and Deepak Hooda, spent a year on a ventilator due to health issues.
Despite his worries, Limbani found inspiration in Rathwa’s resilience and decided to take on the challenge. Over the next eight months, he dedicated himself to mastering the art of the in-swing delivery, encouraged by Rathwa’s support and determination in the face of adversity.
Rathwa shared the meticulous process they followed in Limbani’s training regimen. Starting with bowling from a stationary position for 40 days, they gradually progressed to a short run-up of five paces for the next 60 days. Despite the interruptions from various tournaments, Limbani remained dedicated to his training. By the time of the Asia Cup, he had seamlessly incorporated the new skill into his bowling repertoire, retaining his pace while mastering the in-swing delivery, much to the satisfaction of both Limbani and Rathwa.
Rathwa commends Raj’s mental fortitude, highlighting Pathan’s recognition of his potential and strong attitude. Pathan provided valuable guidance to Raj before the World Cup, focusing on adapting to South African conditions and emphasizing the importance of maintaining a good length. Rathwa believes that Raj has successfully implemented these insights, as demonstrated by his crucial contributions, including a crucial six in the semi-final match.
Rathwa highlights Raj’s impressive bowling speed, consistently reaching 135 kmph and recording peaks of 141 kmph at the National Cricket Academy. He plans to continue developing Raj’s pace alongside his batting skills once he returns home.
Rathwa believes that Limbani is determined to play first-class cricket, as he has been mindful of workload management since his U-16 days.
Rathwa highlights Limbani’s passion for bowling with the red ball, noting that even before the World Cup, he preferred practicing with it. Limbani has demonstrated a keen understanding of workload management since his U-16 days, evident in his willingness to bowl long spells and his high overs count in tournaments like the Cooch Behar Trophy. Despite being part of the IPL generation, Limbani maintains a traditional approach to cricket.
Back in Dayapar, Kachchh, Vasantbhai Patel took the day off to watch his son play the U-19 World Cup final with around 50 people at their home. There was concern when Raj felt his hamstring while bowling his eighth over.
“I knew he would bowl even on one leg,” says Raj’s father.
“This is what he has lived for. I don’t think he ever had any other plans besides cricket. I am happy that he is living his dream,” he adds.
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