From Spider-Man Quote to Cricket Star: India U-19's Harvansh Singh's Inspiring Rise

Harvansh Singh Pangalia, the India U-19 wicketkeeper, lives by a simple yet powerful mantra: "Trying to do better." This isn't just a fleeting thought; it's a philosophy deeply rooted in a scene from the Spider-Man movie, "Spider-Man 2".

Harvansh Singh scored 103 off 52 balls against England's U19 team. (Instagram)

A confessed Marvel fan, Harvansh draws inspiration from the exchange between Peter Parker and Dr. Otto Octavius. When labeled as "lazy," Peter's response, "Trying to do better," resonates deeply with the young cricketer.

"There's something about that scene, that dialogue. Then they repeated the same dialogue 20 years later in 'Spider-Man: No Way Home.' The answer gives me goosebumps," Harvansh revealed.

A Whirlwind Century

Harvansh recently demonstrated his explosive batting talent in a practice match against Young Lions Invitational XI. Coming in at 251/7, he blazed his way to a century in just 52 balls, smashing nine sixes and propelling India to 442/9. The innings has sparked excitement, with many touting him as India's next batting sensation.

The teenager modestly admits he's unsure how he pulled off such an incredible knock.

"I was struggling. The first five balls I faced, I was all at sea, failing to connect a single one. I was batting on 13 off 23 balls... But then something happened. Something snapped, aap keh sakte ho ki maata aa gayi (you could say I was possessed!)," Harvansh chuckled.

Family Sacrifices

Hailing from Gandhidham, Gujarat, Harvansh was inspired by his father and uncle, both wicketkeepers themselves. His father now works as a truck driver in Canada to support the family.

India U-19 cricketer Harvansh Singh (middle) stays in India, with his mother, while his father works in Canada. (Instagram)

"Whenever I step out to bat, I see the faces of my mother and father… They have sacrificed so much for me," Harvansh said, expressing his gratitude. He dreams of bringing his father back to India.

Inspiration and Ambition

Harvansh admires Yuvraj Singh's World Cup winning spirit and the late Kobe Bryant's relentless work ethic. He believes mentality is key. He aims to play Test cricket for India, influenced by Virat Kohli's emphasis on the format's importance in earning respect.

"Test ka naam test hai because it tests your character... That's the ultimate cricket," he stated.

India U-19 cricketer Harvansh Singh during his visit to Canada to meet his father. (Instagram)

While teammates have found success in the IPL, Harvansh remains focused on his own path. "Mera bhi time aayega (My time will come as well)," he confidently asserted.

India U19 will face England U19 in the first Youth ODI at Hove.