- Wed, March 16, 2022

Loading
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Receives Special Talent Praise From Kapil Dev After Historic India Call Up
Indian cricket has witnessed the rise of several teenage prodigies over the decades, but few have generated as much excitement as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The 15-year-old batting sensation has become one of the biggest talking points in world cricket after earning his maiden call-up to India's T20I squad. While the cricketing world celebrates his rapid rise, former India captain Kapil Dev has offered a balanced perspective, describing the youngster as a special talent while cautioning against placing too much pressure on his shoulders.
The legendary all-rounder believes Sooryavanshi possesses extraordinary potential but emphasized that the teenager's journey has only just begun.
Kapil Dev Backs Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Speaking about the young opener, Kapil Dev acknowledged the remarkable achievements that have brought Sooryavanshi into the national spotlight.
According to the 1983 World Cup-winning captain, the left-handed batter has already demonstrated exceptional ability through his performances at a very young age. However, Kapil stressed that long-term development should remain the priority rather than immediate expectations.
The former skipper's comments come at a time when comparisons with some of India's greatest players are already beginning to surface. Kapil believes the focus should remain on allowing the youngster to grow naturally and continue improving his game.
Record Breaking India Call Up
Sooryavanshi's selection is historic for Indian cricket. At just 15 years and 71 days old, he has become the youngest player ever selected for India's T20I squad, surpassing a record that had stood since Sachin Tendulkar's rise in international cricket.
If he takes the field during the upcoming tours of Ireland and England or at the Asian Games 2026, he will become the youngest player to represent India in men's international cricket.
The achievement highlights the confidence selectors have shown in his ability and potential.
IPL 2026 Performance Changed Everything
The teenager's call-up follows a sensational IPL 2026 campaign with Rajasthan Royals. Opening the batting, Sooryavanshi emerged as one of the standout performers of the tournament and established himself as one of the most exciting young players in the game.
His numbers were extraordinary. The left-hander scored 776 runs in 16 innings and won the Orange Cap with a remarkable strike rate of 237.30.
The season included one century, five half-centuries and a record-breaking tally of 72 sixes. His fearless batting style and ability to dominate experienced bowlers quickly made him a fan favorite.
Those performances convinced selectors that he was ready for the next step in his cricketing journey.
IPL Continues To Shape National Selection
Kapil Dev also highlighted the significant role the IPL now plays in identifying future international stars.
The former captain believes the tournament remains one of the most important talent pathways in world cricket. With selectors closely monitoring performances throughout the competition, players who consistently deliver under pressure are increasingly earning opportunities at the international level.
Sooryavanshi's rapid rise is perhaps the latest example of the IPL's ability to uncover and fast-track exceptional talent.
Next Challenge Awaits
Before joining the senior Indian squad, Sooryavanshi will represent India A in the upcoming tri-series in Sri Lanka. The tournament will provide another valuable opportunity to gain experience and continue his development against strong opposition.
While expectations will inevitably remain high, the advice from Kapil Dev is clear. The young batter possesses rare talent, but patience will be key.
If managed carefully and allowed to develop at his own pace, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could become one of the defining stars of Indian cricket's next generation. For now, the focus remains on learning, growing and enjoying a journey that is only beginning.
Key Highlights
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi earned his first India T20I call-up at 15 years and 71 days.
Kapil Dev described him as a special talent and urged caution over expectations.
The teenager won the IPL 2026 Orange Cap with 776 runs.
He smashed one century, five fifties and a record 72 sixes.
Sooryavanshi will represent India A before joining the senior squad.
Comments:
Leave a Reply