The 2017 Tamil Nadu Premier League which starts from the 22nd July will see 14-year-old ambidextrous bowler and opening batsman Nivethan Radhakrishnan take the tournament by storm.

He is someone who bowls right arm and is also a left-arm spinner. In the forthcoming TNPL 2017, this rare talent is all set to play for Karaikudi Kaalai.

In the year 2011 at the age of 8, he took a hat-trick in the fourth division league game which made him a star. He was studying in ninth class at the Homebush high school in Sydney but has not returned to Chennai. This year he appeared for trials for Kaalai team and impressed the support staff with his rare and unique talent.

Speaking to the TOI, Nivethan said that the key would be to adjust to the weather and conditions quickly. “It’s great to be back in Chennai.I didn’t watch TNPL last year. However, now I’m in Chennai preparing for TNPL. I’m trying my best to adjust to the weather and the wickets here. But I’m confident of doing well,” Nivethan told TOI.

14-year-old Radhakrishnan loved to watch Sachin Tendulkar bat. He aspires to be like Gary Sobers who was a great all-rounder of West Indies. Assistant coach of Kaalai, PC Prakash, was pleased to see Nivethan’s ability in the nets. “When we saw him in the trials, we knew he had the talent. His attitude and approach was great. He looked capable,” said Prakash.

It is a great platform for young cricketers to showcase their talent. In the previous TNPL, Vishnu Vinod played and got a chance to play with RCB franchise this year. The second season will see 8 teams with round robin matches. It will follow the IPL format. Let’s hope Radhakrishnan lives up to his own expectations in this challenging format.