Next demi-god of cricket? Srikkanth urges BCCI to act fast on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi |

Fast-Track Him Into National Side

Speaking on The Week’s podcast, Srikkanth did not mince words regarding the youngster’s readiness. He insisted that Sooryavanshi should not only be in the next series squad but should have been part of the T20 World Cup plans.

“I’m telling you today, fast-track him. Next series, he should be playing,” Srikkanth urged. “He should be in the T20 World Cup team, in the 15. Let him understand and get the feel of what international cricket is.”

Srikkanth, who captained Tendulkar during his debut tour of Pakistan, sees a similar spark in the way Sooryavanshi handles world-class pace. “Imagine. First ball, Jasprit Bumrah, six. Josh Hazlewood, he hammers him. He’s not bothered at all. Similarly, this boy could be the next demi-god of cricket.”

Record-breaking Statistical Run Continues

The hype surrounding the 15-year-old is backed by staggering numbers. Sooryavanshi is currently a frontrunner for the Orange Cap, having amassed 246 runs in just six games this season. His performance is characterized by an extraordinary average of 41.00 and a strike rate of 236.53, a figure that has left even seasoned veterans in awe.

This isn’t a flash-in-the-pan performance. Sooryavanshi already has a maiden IPL century to his name from his debut season and was the architect of India’s U19 World Cup glory, where he smashed a mammoth 175 in the final against England.

With reports suggesting the BCCI is considering him for the upcoming tour of Ireland, Sooryavanshi stands on the cusp of becoming the youngest player ever to represent the Indian senior team. For Srikkanth, the decision is simple: “No question of giving him time or letting him be consistent. That guy can win matches for you like this, boss.”