Spider-Man's Wisdom Fuels India U-19 Cricketer Harvansh Singh's Rise

Friday - 27/06/2025 00:30

India U-19 wicketkeeper-batter Harvansh Singh Pangalia shared how he was struggling at 13 off 23 balls before something clicked — and went on to score a blistering 103 off 52 deliveries against England U-19 in a warm-up match. The 18-year-old is a Marvel fan, and his life motto revolves around a famous dialogue from Tobey Maguire's Spider-Man movie.

India U-19 wicketkeeper Harvansh Singh Pangalia lives by a simple yet powerful mantra: "Trying to do better." This philosophy, inspired by a dialogue from the Spider-Man movie, fuels his ambition and drive on and off the cricket field.

Harvansh Singh credits Spider-Man for life mantra

Harvansh, a self-confessed Marvel fan, draws inspiration from a scene in Tobey Maguire's Spider-Man 2. In the movie, Peter Parker responds to a comment about his potential with the simple phrase: "Trying to do better."

"There's something about that scene, that dialogue," Harvansh told TimesofIndia.com. "The answer gives me goosebumps."

A Whirlwind Century

The 18-year-old recently showcased his explosive batting in a practice match against Young Lions Invitational XI. Coming in with the score at 251/7, he smashed a blistering 100 off just 52 balls, including nine sixes. His performance propelled India to a massive total of 442/9.

Family Sacrifices

Harvansh hails from Gandhidham, Gujarat. His father, Damandeep Singh, a truck driver, moved to Canada in 2017. Harvansh stayed back in India with his mother to pursue his cricketing dream.

"Whenever I step out to bat, I see the faces of my mother and father," Harvansh said. "They have sacrificed so much for me." He is determined to reunite his parents and bring his father back to India.

Inspiration and Mentality

Harvansh admires Yuvraj Singh and Kobe Bryant, drawing inspiration from their mental fortitude. He believes that mentality and self-belief are crucial for success.

"The sportsperson I liked the most is the late Kobe Bryant. His Mamba Mentality. No athlete can match his work ethic. He used to train for six to eight hours, which is so inspiring," he added.

He also aspires to play Test cricket for India, influenced by Virat Kohli's emphasis on the format as a test of character.

"Test ka naam test hai because it tests your character," he said. "I love playing four-day cricket. That's the ultimate cricket."

While his teammates have already secured IPL contracts, Harvansh remains focused on his own path. "They are my friends...I am happy for them. They do inspire all of us, but everyone has a different path. Mera bhi time aayega (My time will come as well)."

India U19 is set to face England U19 in the first Youth ODI at Hove.