Young batsman Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could be the “revival of Test cricket” if he fulfills his long-term potential, according to former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth, who urged fans and pundits not to overburden the youngster.Fresh from the show Indian Premier League Campaigning, the 15-year-old has been called up to India’s T20I squad for the upcoming tour of Ireland and England. But Srikkanth believes that Sooryavanshi’s impact can extend beyond white-ball cricket. “What I like about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is his passion for chasing and his will to dominate. At the same time, he can stay there and play as well,” Srikkanth told PTI.“If they go from T20 cricket to one-day cricket, then to Test cricket, and if they click on Test cricket, what they will do, I believe you will see a revival of Test cricket,” he added.
‘People switch on TV to watch Sooryavanshi’
The former Indian opener said the youngster has a rare aura that can attract people.“You need this kind of cricketer today. People switch on TV to watch Sooryavanshi. I switch on TV to watch Sooryavanshi. That’s the aura he has created around him. And he is amazing,” he said.Srikkanth, however, cautioned against judging the youngster based on his limited returns during India A’s recent tour of Sri Lanka.“In one series, you don’t judge a person. Come on. This happens. Poor guy. It doesn’t matter. You just give him time. Don’t rush. Vaibhav, don’t worry about what people say about you, just play your natural game,” he added.
‘He is the future of Indian cricket ‘
Srikkanth said that Sooryavanshi should be handled with patience and given a long leash.“He is a guy who can win matches single-handedly. So, I believe he should be given a very, very, very long rope. And I don’t think you should mess with him. Let’s mold him beautifully. If you give him enough opportunities and if you mold him well, he will be the best in Indian cricket,” said the former captain.Praising his shooting skills and temperament, Srikkanth called the youngster “the best future of India.”
‘Sachin is God, Vaibhav is God’s son’
He was asked if Sooryavanshi reminded him Sachin Tendulkarwho made his debut under Srikkanth’s captaincy, the former chairman of the selection committee avoided direct comparisons but came up with a memorable explanation.
Which type of cricket do you believe Sooryavanshi will excel in?
“Let’s not compare Sachin with Sooryavanshi. Sachin is the God of cricket and this boy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, I believe, is the son of God. Let’s put it that way. Just leave Sachin alone. No one can come close to him,” he said.
