Saving runs will be India’s U-19 World Cup-winning speedster Rajvardhan Hangargekar’s modus operandi while bowling for Chennai Super Kings in the upcoming IPL. Hangargekar is also keen on saving the money he is set to earn from his franchise. On Sunday, Hangargekar was picked up the MS Dhoni-famous team for R1.5cr at the auction in Bangalore.
In addition to his IPL earning, Hangargekar has also earned R40 lakh from the BCCI for being part of India’s World Cup-winning effort in the Caribbean recently. “I know the value and importance of money. I’m planning to save this money and invest it towards a better future. Money is important, but it’s not my priority. Pace bowling is my sole focus,” Hangargekar told mid-day from Osmanabad on Sunday. Hangargekar, who claimed five wickets in the Caribbean, is known for his fiery spells in which he touches 140kmph consistently.
On Sunday, when his name came up at the auction, three teams—Lucknow Super Giants, Mumbai Indians and CSK, showd interest in the young bowler, who had a base price of R50 lakh. However, the defending champions were persistent and bagged the youngster, who will also have another Maharashtra cricketer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, for company at CSK.
“Yes, there was some initial excitement, but I was not expecting too much from this auction. I was confident that I would get picked though. MI and CSK are my favourite teams, so this is like a dream come true,” added Hangargekar. Pune-based coach Mohan Jadhav is excited for Hangargekar. “Everyone knows how Dhoni supported and encouraged Ruturaj. I’m sure Raj will also get enough opportunity to prove himself and learn a lot under the best captain in the country,” said Jadhav.
