Chennai's Rising Star RS Ambrish Channels Ben Stokes in All-Round Cricket Quest
"Ben Stokes is my favourite cricketer," declares RS Ambrish in an exclusive conversation with TOI. This simple yet powerful statement from the Chennai-based teenager reveals volumes about his cricketing philosophy and unwavering ambition. Much like the English superstar he admires, Ambrish refuses to be confined to a single role on the field, embodying the modern all-rounder's spirit.
Mirroring a Hero: The Stokes-Inspired Game
Ambrish's playing style bears a striking resemblance to his idol. He operates as a right-arm fast bowler while wielding the bat left-handed, a combination that immediately draws comparisons. "I always wanted to be an all-rounder," he emphasizes. "I want to contribute with bat and ball and be part of the action constantly." This mindset was on full display during a crucial U-19 World Cup encounter against New Zealand in Bulawayo.
On a challenging surface that tested patience, Ambrish delivered a masterclass in pace bowling. His figures of 4/29 dismantled the New Zealand batting lineup through a calculated mix of heavy lengths, intelligent pace variations, and perfectly executed yorkers. Most impressively, he maintained relentless pressure throughout his spell, showcasing maturity beyond his years.
From Chennai Streets to Competitive Arenas
The roots of this all-round capability trace back to Ambrish's childhood in Kolathur, Chennai, where cricket dominated his afternoons. His talent flourished at Don Bosco Egmore, a school renowned for nurturing sporting excellence. Here, he dominated school cricket circuits, accumulating runs and wickets while learning to shoulder responsibility early.
His journey progressed to the demanding MRF League, where reputations meant little and survival depended purely on skill. This environment served as a finishing school in resilience, hardening him for higher challenges. Throughout this evolution, one constant presence has been his father, R Sukumar.
A Father's Guidance and Technical Foundation
Sukumar, a former Railways cricketer who trained alongside players like Murali Karthik and JP Yadav, understands cricket's dual nature of promise and cruelty. Having missed Ranji Trophy opportunities himself, he channels that experience into mentoring his son. "We talk cricket all the time," Ambrish reveals.
Currently coaching the Integral Coach Factory team, Sukumar prioritizes one element above all: technical perfection. "If the foundation is strong, it will take him far," he asserts. This emphasis on fundamentals shapes Ambrish's development, providing a sturdy base for his explosive talents.
Filling India's All-Rounder Void
The excitement surrounding Ambrish is palpable and justified. At a time when India's junior cricket landscape brims with batting prodigies, the emergence of a genuine seam-bowling all-rounder represents a rare and valuable commodity. Thalaivan Sargunam Xavier, chairman of selectors for the South Zone, acknowledges his potential while urging perspective.
"He is 18, and his muscles are still developing," Xavier notes. "He has a long way to go." With only two Ranji Trophy appearances so far, Ambrish accepts this reality with characteristic composure. The Ben Stokes comparisons will inevitably resurface, yet his journey remains distinctly his own.
Forged through relentless hard work, endless cricket discussions at home, and an unshakable belief that technique and temperament ultimately triumph over hype, RS Ambrish represents a new generation of Indian cricketers. As he continues developing, the cricket world watches closely, hopeful that this Chennai teenager might evolve into the all-round asset Indian cricket has long sought.
