Harry Singh, son of ex-India bowler RP Singh, dons 12th man role in ENG vs SL 1st Test - Know everything about the 20-year-old cricketer

Harry Singh is the son of former India pacer Rudra Pratap Singh Senior. (X/lancscricket)

Lancashire batter Harry Singh took a step closer towards his England debut on Day 1 of the first Test against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford. Harry, was one of three substitutes England introduced on the opening day of the clash. The 20-year-old came on as a substitute soon after England chose to bowl first. He then returned during the post-lunch session, substituting Harry Brook temporarily after he left the field in the 37th over.

Who is Harry Singh?

Harry is a right-hand batter and can also operate as a right arm off-break bowler. He is the son of former India pacer Rudra Pratap Singh Senior, who has represented India in the 1980s, during which he played two ODIs against Australia. Apart from his international appearances, RP Singh Senior got decent exposure in the domestic circuit, featuring in 59 first-class matches, where he registered 150 scalps and scored 1413 runs. After his retirement RP Singh Senior moved to UK and took up coaching assignments with Lancashire County Club and the England Cricket Board (ECB) and alongside provided Harry with a supportive environment to develop his skills.

While his father gained fame as part of India's 1986 ODI matches against Australia, Harry's cricketing journey took a different course. He was born in Blackburn, Lancashire, in 2004, and slowly followed his father's footsteps.

Harry has made steady progress in his cricketing career in the UK. His cricketing journey began at the tender age of four, and has consistently progressed through Lancashire's pathway system. He made his List A debut earlier this year, and has played a total of seven matches so far. He, however, could only muster 87 runs in the seven outings and with the ball he managed two wickets.

He gained international experience by representing England Under 19s in two Tests against Australia in 2022-23, where he scored a notable 67 in one of the matches. Apart from this he also played against Sri Lanka at home earlier in 2022, which included 104 at Derby.

As Harry continues to impress and gain valuable experience, he's undoubtedly on the list of England selectors. And in addition the support of his father, an ex-India cricketer, makes him well-positioned for a potential call-up to the national team in future.