Gen Next sets the pace: Pacers eye India selection after 13,000-strong talent hunt

BENGALURU: Sometimes, all it takes to unlock talent is a spark. It can come from within or from someone willing to light it for you. For Akshita Bhagat, Palak Singh, Rohita Chowdry and Joshna Angel, the WPL Speed Queen initiative provided that spark.The four were among more than 13,000 aspirants who registered for the talent hunt. Around 7,500 made it to the trials before 56 finalists showcased their speed, strength and ambition at the finale in Mumbai earlier this year. Their performances have since opened another door.Having earned the opportunity to train under some of the best coaches and observe some of the finest cricketers at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, the four fast bowlers are now aiming higher. They are currently training under coach Krishna Kumar at CoE. TOI takes a look at the future India prospects...AKSHITA BHAGATThe first to make the big leap is Mohali teenager Akshita.