Patna, Jan. 30: A prolific hitter in the shortest version of cricket, charming Saurabh Tiwary usually lets his bat do all the talking for him. But the dasher from Jamshedpur in Jharkhand did a bit of talking for some Ranji players from Bihar. Like a seasoned spotter, he said they had a chance of donning national colours.

In town to give away prizes on the final day of Little Champs Premier League for U-10 boys, Saurabh said: “I know a few players from Bihar who are playing Ranji. They have a good chance to play for the Indian team.”

Six teams participated in the tournament. Cricket Academy of Patna emerged winners beating Rajiv Gandhi Cricket Foundation in the final. The other teams were Cricket Academy of Bihar (CAB), Litera Valley School, Don Bosco Academy and DAV Public School.

Wishing the potential cricketers good luck, Saurabh said: “Perfect practice is very important in cricket. The budding cricketers should focus on it.”

Saurabh’s presence during the final at the outer ground of Moinul Haq Stadium was a boost to the budding cricketers. The children were elated to spot a star among them. Many of them requested Saurabh to give his autograph on cricket balls, caps and T-shirts. Saurabh obliged with a smile.

The warmth of the people of the city touched Saurabh. “This is my maiden visit to Bihar and I liked this place very much. I could have watched other matches but it was great to see the final. In fact, I love to see young players in action,” he said.

The Little Champs Premier League for U-10 boys started on January 21. Total 37 matches were played in the tourney. Children simply loved playing cricket in the tournament, as the leg before wicket rule was not applied.

Besides Saurabh, several other dignitaries were present during the final. All of them showered praised on the southpaw.

The chief guest, energy minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav, said: “I will request all young players present over here to be like Saurabh Tiwary.”

Leader of Opposition in the Assembly Abdul Bari Siddiqui was also present during the prize distribution ceremony. He said: “We want players like Saurabh from Bihar and I am sure our state will produce cricketers like him in the future.”

Lauding the effort of the tournament organisers, road construction department secretary Pratyay Amrit said: “This is a very good initiative to promote cricket at this (junior) level. The organisers did a wonderful job in a short span of time this year. From next time onwards teams from that all the districts of Bihar should participate in the tournament.”