Who is Harry Singh, the emerging talent in English cricket?

BRITISH INDIAN cricketer Harry Singh from Blackburn, Lancashire, is an emerging talent in English cricket with an intriguing family background.

As the son of former India pacer Rudra Pratap Singh Senior, Harry represents a unique blend of Indian cricket heritage and English upbringing.

RP Singh Senior (not the RP Singh who was part of India's T20 World Cup-winning side in 2007), played for India in the 1980s, appeared in two ODIs against Australia in 1986.

After his playing career, he moved to the UK, taking up coaching roles with Lancashire County Club and the England Cricket Board (ECB).

Born on June 16, 2004, Harry's cricketing journey began at a remarkably young age. He first picked up a bat at the age of four, showing early signs of following in his father's footsteps, albeit in a different country.

He joined Lancashire's pathway system at the age of eight and has been part of the Lancashire Academy since he was 15. This long-term association with Lancashire has been crucial in shaping his cricketing skills and understanding of the game.

His education at Clitheroe Grammar School provided a balanced foundation, allowing him to pursue his cricketing ambitions while maintaining academic commitments.

Despite his young age, Harry has already gained valuable international experience. He represented England in Under-19 Tests against Australia in Brisbane in early 2023.

Although England lost the series 1-0, Harry made a significant impact, scoring 67 in the first innings of the opening Test.

Harry's professional career took a significant step forward when he signed his first professional contract with Lancashire. This milestone came after years of dedication and hard work through the county's youth system.

In 2024, at the age of 20, Harry made his List A debut for Lancashire in the One-Day Cup. He played in all seven matches of the tournament, gaining valuable experience in professional cricket, even though he may not have fully showcased his potential in this initial outing.

Harry's cricketing journey reached a new milestone when he was selected as one of three substitute players for England in their first Test against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford, Manchester, in August 2024.

Alongside teammates Charlie Barnard and Kesh Fonseka, Harry was chosen for 12th-man duties by the Ollie Pope-led side.

During the match, Harry had the opportunity to take the field early in the Test, coming on as a substitute soon after England chose to bowl first. He returned in the post-lunch session, filling in again when Harry Brook temporarily left the pitch in the 37th over.

As an opening batsman, Harry's progression through Lancashire's development system and early professional experiences provide a foundation for his continued development in the sport.