Teen sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has taken the cricketing world by storm in Indian Premier League 2026, but experts are urging the Board of Control for Cricket in India to adopt a patient approach before fast-tracking his international debut.
Record-Breaking Knock Sparks Selection Debate
The 15-year-old prodigy grabbed headlines after smashing a stunning 36-ball century against Sunrisers Hyderabad, showcasing extraordinary composure and power at such a young age. His performances have made it difficult for selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, to ignore him ahead of upcoming T20I series.
Even Pat Cummins praised the youngster, calling him his “new favourite player,” underlining the global buzz around Sooryavanshi’s talent.
Carlos Brathwaite Suggests ‘Brian Lara Blueprint’
However, former West Indies all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite has advised caution. He suggested that India should follow the development path used for legendary cricketer Brian Lara.
Instead of rushing him into international cricket, Brathwaite recommended integrating Sooryavanshi into the senior setup gradually—allowing him to learn from greats like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Suryakumar Yadav before handing him a debut.
Learning Before Exposure
Drawing parallels with Lara’s early career, Brathwaite explained that the West Indies legend spent time around senior players like Vivian Richards before making his international debut. This helped him adapt to the pressures of top-level cricket.
A similar approach, he argued, could ensure long-term success for Sooryavanshi rather than risking burnout or excessive pressure at a young age.
A Talent Beyond His Years
Despite the cautionary advice, Brathwaite couldn’t hide his admiration for the teenager. Reflecting on Sooryavanshi’s achievements, he admitted that even at 37, he could not match what the youngster is doing at just 15.
The rising star has also proven his mettle beyond the IPL, including a remarkable 175-run performance in the U19 World Cup final, further cementing his status as one of cricket’s brightest prospects.
What Lies Ahead for India’s Young Star
With the cricketing world watching closely, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stands at a crucial juncture. While immediate international selection may seem tempting, a balanced and structured development plan could define whether he becomes a short-term sensation or a long-term legend.
