Aryan Saxena: The consistent journey of a young UAE cricketer with dreams

By K.R. Nayar

"Success is a journey, not a destination. The act of doing holds more significance than the outcome." UAE’s emerging talent, 18-year-old Aryan Saxena, firmly embraces this principle. I first wrote about this passionate cricketer in February 2022 when he had achieved remarkable feats: a double century, an unbeaten 145, a swift 101 in 51 balls, a five-wicket haul, and two four-wicket spells, all in prestigious tournaments within a single year.

 

Aryan Saxena with one among the many trophies that he won for his performance 

His consistent performance and ongoing progress gave me the opportunity to write about him once again.  He serves as an exemplar of continually raising the bar through his displays on the field. In the UAE Under 19 National Academy League, he emerged as the tournament's second-highest scorer, amassing 383 runs from six innings, including a notable knock of 130 and three half-centuries, earning him the Player of the Match title twice. With a batting average of 64, he secured the third position in the tournament’s player rankings, while also claiming seven wickets with his off-spin at an economy rate of 5.23.

 

Aryan Saxena returns after another fine knock 

During the ongoing Indian Cricket League Season 2 in Sharjah, Aryan delivered a series of outstanding performances. Playing for Mysore Legends, he clinched three consecutive Man of the Match awards not only for his batting and bowling prowess but also for his exceptional fielding skills. "I aspire to become a proficient all-rounder," he asserts, emphasizing his diligent training regimen. "I dedicate two to three hours daily to honing my skills. Cricket is my passion; I cannot go a day without holding a bat or ball, regardless of the circumstances."

 

Aryan Saxena's hard work produces elegant strokes 

Aryan recognizes the importance of fitness in achieving success and maintains a regular gym routine. He understands that a fit body can work wonders and contribute to his goal of becoming an international cricketer. He has already represented the UAE Under-19 team, and in 2023 I had written about his performances in the ICC Under-19 World Cup Asia Qualifiers for the ICC cricket.com website. It feels good that a youngster whom one believes will do well performs consistently.  He strives to deliver his best in every match he plays.

 

Receives his trophy for yet another match winning show in the four-nations 2023 tournament 

In the Karwan 50-over tournament, representing Seven Districts juniors, he scored 141 runs from two matches, including an impressive unbeaten 103 against Z Game Strikers. Additionally, he captained the Emirates Blue team in the Emirates D10 tournament 2023, showcasing his skills with an unbeaten 103 in the shortest format.

 

Aryan Saxena acknowledges the cheers from his teammates 

Apart from his cricketing prowess, Saxena excels academically as a student at the University of Heriot Watt. In the recently concluded Inter-University Skyline Cup, he delivered a stellar performance, claiming six wickets in four overs while conceding just 11 runs in the final, earning him the prestigious Player of the Final award. His batting prowess was evident while playing for the ECB Development Under-19 teams, where he scored a brilliant 75 against the touring Leicestershire Academy Under-19 in a 50-over game.

 

 

Aryan Saxena strikes with the ball through his accurate off spin

As someone who relishes pressure situations, Aryan says, "The best advice I've received is to keep it simple, avoid succumbing to pressure, and stick to the basics." In the Emirates D10 tournament in December 2023, he played an unforgettable innings, scoring an unbeaten 80 off 34 balls against Dubai, and nearly guided his team to victory in a closely contested match that unfortunately ended in a one-run defeat for his team.

 

Aryan Saxena keeps sharpening his  fielding skills too

Talking about idols, Aryan considers England’s Joe Root serves as his role model. His parents  have provided him unwavering support since the time he developed a profound love for cricket.

 

Aryan Saxena... shaping well for the future 

"My aim is to participate in the ILT20 this year and represent the UAE senior national team," he affirms. With his consistent performances and the joy he derives while going through this journey in the game, he may very well realize his ambitions soon.