Young cricketer's quest leads him from London to Bhubaneswar 

With just one day to go until the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas kick-starts in Bhubaneswar, the Temple City is bustling with excitement. Preparations are in full swing for the event taking place tomorrow, which brings a notable highlight to the city.

Amid all the hustle and bustle, a cricketer from London has arrived in Bhubaneswar to fine-tune his pace bowling abilities. Although Odisha is not traditionally renowned as a hub for cricket development, this initiative signifies a commendable endorsement of the state's potential in sports training.

As per reports, Devansh Panda, a 15-year-old cricket prodigy of Odia heritage, is creating ripples in England's cricketing circles. Currently associated with Hampshire County Cricket Club, he has already led the Hampshire U14. As a right-arm medium-fast bowler, Devansh has made a journey from London to Bhubaneswar, focusing on honing his bowling precision.

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In the Capital City, Devansh is diligently working to improve his speed and accuracy, alongside mastering his in-swing and out-swing deliveries. His rigorous training regimen reflects his commitment to shaping a successful future in cricket, driven by sheer passion and determination.

“I have been in Odisha for around 25 days and receiving training from Lalit Sir. During my stay here, I have learnt a lot.  I am improving my pace and accuracy. I have also played one match,” said Devansh. 

A Class X student in the UK, Devansh has embarked on a journey to Bhubaneswar, India, to hone his skills under the guidance of esteemed cricket coach Lalit Mohanty. Having been inspired by Mohanty's training sessions streamed on YouTube, Devansh aims to pursue his aspirations of becoming a renowned cricketer. 

The trip signifies a crucial step in Devansh's burgeoning cricketing career as he distances himself from London's bustling lifestyle to immerse in the disciplined regimen offered by Coach Mohanty.

“We have our own house at Baramunda. Every December, we come to Bhubaneswar. This time, before coming to Bhubaneswar, I Googled and found some videos of Lalit Sir on You Tube. I liked them very much. His (Devansh) dream is to play International cricket as a professional cricketer, though it is too early to predict whether he will play or not,” said Saroj Panda, Devansh’s father. 

“Devansh Panda is staying in London. His father contacted me one month ago. He watched my YouTube channel. He might have found the videos influencing,” said Lalit Mohanty, coach. 

Despite the common trend of Odisha players travelling beyond the state to access superior facilities, having an overseas cricketer opt for local training sends out a substantial positive message about the region's emerging capabilities. This choice reflects a growing recognition of Odisha's potential to nurture talent, even from afar.

“The players from here go to other states and abroad to hone their skills. But when a player from abroad comes to Odisha to sharpen his skills, there would be no better thing for the state,” said the coach.