M. Ashwin Raj stands taller than the under-21 youth from across the nation assembled at the Balewadi indoor stadium for Khelo India Youth Games’ volleyball event.
At 196cm, the 20-year-old has competition from others in terms of height and a few spikers may look down upon him from up above, but fall short when it comes to achievements on court (senior National and Pro Volleyball League).
He is the only player in the KIYC to feature in the forthcoming PVL, brushing shoulders with pros in the Chennai Spartans squad.
Ashwin, categorised as an ‘universal’ in the PVL for his multi-tasking abilities, also operates in the same position for the Tamil Nadu u-21 boys at KIYG.
Special permission
PVL’s Chennai franchise gave their u-21 talent special permission to take a break from a camp to take part for his state in Pune.
“I will return to the PVL preparation as soon as the volleyball event in KIYG is over,” Ashwin said. He is in the ₹1 lakh bracket in the pro league, as one of the two u-21 players in each squad.
Ashwin was taken as ‘universal’ in Chennai Spartans as well and his teammates include India international and PVL marquee player G.S. Akhin and Canadian Rudy Vierheoff, both operating as blockers. “Watching them prepare is exciting for younger players,” he said and added: “PVL is an opportunity every volleyball player is waiting for.”
Ranjith Singh, a setter, got the highest fee at the auction, ₹13 lakh by Ahmedabad Defenders.
Each of six squads in the league, which kicks-off on February 2 in Kochi, have 12 players, including a maximum of two foreigners and two u-21 Indians to gain exposure.
“Live telecast of matches will popularise the sport and give players recognition in places where volleyball is followed,” said the Chennai Spartans player. “People buy tickets to watch live volleyball in Kerala, I am looking forward to touring with the squad.”