We often hear about Team India’s renowned throwdown specialist, Raghavendra Dwivedi, fondly known as Raghu. Many of India’s top players, including Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, have praised Raghu’s crucial support in their preparation. Yet, it’s rare to find someone who not only follows Raghu’s practice sessions religiously but also views him as a role model.
Enter Mumbai’s Vignesh Mendon, a side-arm throwdown specialist who brings attention to this lesser-known yet vital aspect of cricket training. Mendon’s dedication and admiration for Raghu offer a unique perspective on the role of a throwdown specialist in shaping a cricketer’s performance.
“I have been following the Indian team religiously. I would make sure to not miss Raghu sir’s practice sessions. I would watch his videos on YouTube as well. I used to watch and learn how he is able to clock 140kph – 150kph speed in his throwdowns. I consider him a role model," Mendon told CricketNext.
Like any other kid, Mendon aspired to be a cricketer – a fast bowler to be specific. However, not being happy with his bowling speed and looking at competition around him, Mendon took the side-arm equipment as his ally in 2020.
Mendon soon became a household name in Mumbai cricketing circuit. While the throwdown specialist works majorly at the city’s Parsee Gymkhana, he has helped the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, and Rahul Dravid’s son Samit Dravid. Mendon also helped Irfan Pathan get into groove just ahead of the start of Legends League Cricket 2024.
Mendon trained Jaiswal ahead of IPL 2024, and said that while he was playing normal cricket, his focus was power hitting with the T20 league around the corner.
“It was a memorable experience working with Jaiswal. He is hardworking and talented. It was one of my best sessions."
Mendon also trained Dravid’s son Samit just around the time when he was selected in India’s Under-19 squad. Mendon revealed that while sessions had Dravid overlooking his son’s batting, he would not interfere while the sessions were going on.
“Samit’s batting style is largely similar to Rahul Dravid. He has a classical approach and tries to play on merit of the ball. I am sure he will come up as great talent."
While Mendon has been training some of the top names in Indian cricket, he is also utilising his experience for a charitable cause. Mendon trains a significant number of Under-19 and Under-17 girls in Mumbai. Mendon recently started to support upcoming women cricketers, giving them throwdowns without charging any fees.
“Not all the girls are able to afford joining clubs and train professionally. So I thought of giving free sessions to these girls and impart my knowledge to them," added Mendon.
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