A familiar name was on the West Indies’ team list for Tuesday’s match against Canada in the ICC Under-19 World Cup – Tagenarine Chanderpaul.
If his first name doesn’t ring a bell, then definitely his surname will. Son of West Indies’ batting legend Shivnarine, Tagenarine has definitely shown his potential with the bat – this time with a 93-run knock which earned him the Man-of-the-Match award in his side’s 63-run win in Abu Dhabi.
Tagenarine said two hours of practice with his father in the back garden was a huge part of his preparation for the tournament.
“Whenever he’s (Shivnarine) around, we play together for around two hours. I learn a lot from him and he gives me good tips,” he said.
The 17-year-old carries many of his father’s traits, driving the ball with consumate ease and in no rush to score quick runs, but to build an innings.
His individual score yesterday came off 127 balls, which included five boundaries and one hit over the fence.
“It feels great,” said Tagenarine, when asked of what he thought of his performance. “I just played a long time and hit the ball cleanly.”
Tagenarine is now the second highest run-scorer in the tournament with a total of 177, having scored 84 against Zimbabwe after being out for a duck against South Africa.
“Whenever I go to the crease, I just think about adding the most number of runs and helpinh the team to reach a good total,” said Tagenarine, who has been staying in touch with his father during his stay in the UAE.
Totally relaxed, the left-hander knows wherever he goes, the spotlight is on him. In fact, his presence in the team has attracted a few West Indian fans who cheered every boundary he had made.
He was even happy to pose for pictures with fans and sign autographs after the match. “It’s nice that people like me and since I have been here I have enjoyed seeing new people.”
