When United Arab Emirates’ cricketer Yayin Rai walked back to the pavilion after being dismissed by Henil Patel in the Under-19 Asia Cup, he might have wondered – What was that delivery all about? The tall Gujarat pace bowler had snapped his wrist, imparted enough backspin to find inward movement and castle Rai. Replays indicated that Rai had hardly moved his back heel, but the bowler might just point out that the late movement forced the mistake from the batter.
In summary, Henil has the ability to nip the ball both ways with a rhythmic approach. Henil, who is basically a line bowler, once again gave an exhibition of his strengths with a five-for in India Under-19’s opening fixture of the 2026 Under-19 World Cup against the United States of America (USA).
Here too, India were up against a modest opponent, but his methods would have likely troubled quality Under-19 teams as well. To illustrate the point about the nifty movement, take into account the wicket of Amrinder Gill – The ball seemed to be coming in with the angle, only for it to leave the right-hander a wee bit and catch the edge. In the same game, he also showcased a true fast-bowling mindset by pulling the length back as and when needed.
After reading through the above paragraphs, a question might arise in the mind. ‘How has Henil performed while bowling to stronger teams?’ Just pore through his performances during the tours of England and, especially, Australia last year and you will unearth the answer. Henil took 8 wickets in total during India Under-19’s England tour. He then returned with an impressive haul of six wickets at an average of 7.33 in the Youth Tests in Australia. Henil can wield the willow as well. During his Under-17 days, he had once cracked a whirlwind hundred.
Henil, who idolises Dale Steyn, may not possess the legend’s swing-bowling skills and pace. He may not even have Steyn’s aggressive streak after picking up a wicket. But there is an unmistakable confidence in his body language.
The tall and well-built pace bowler has certainly put his native place, Jujwa, on the world map with his exploits in the Under-19 World Cup. One can imagine Dilipbhai, his father, receiving 1000s of congratulatory messages on the back of his son’s achievement. Like always, a small caveat needs to be added – Bigger challenges lie ahead for the cricketer from Valsad, Gujarat.
For More Exciting Articles: Follow RevSportz
