Cricket legends Brett Lee and Robin Uthappa have offered insights and warnings regarding the burgeoning career of teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Both former players acknowledge Sooryavanshi’s exceptional talent but highlight the significant challenges he faces in sustaining his success amidst growing expectations and distractions.
Sooryavanshi, who is 15, has rapidly ascended in the cricketing world. He made a notable impact during the IPL 2026 season, where he scored 776 runs in 16 matches for Rajasthan Royals, earning the Orange Cap. His performances in the league led to a call-up to India’s T20I side. After a challenging start in international cricket during the England series, he demonstrated an impressive recovery on India’s Zimbabwe tour, where he was named Player of the Series.
Focus on ability, not age
Brett Lee, the former Australia pace bowler, emphasised that Sooryavanshi’s age should not overshadow his on-field abilities. Lee noted that the teenager’s age has become a significant talking point outside India, but he believes the focus should remain on his cricketing prowess. Lee stated that he does not care about Sooryavanshi’s exact age, stressing that the young player has already proven his capability.
Lee expressed admiration for Sooryavanshi’s fearless approach, particularly his ability to handle express pace during the IPL. He recalled a specific instance where Sooryavanshi scored 97 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, facing Australian bowlers who were delivering fast deliveries. Lee highlighted Sooryavanshi’s technique, noting his ability to play proper cricketing shots and generate power.
The former fast bowler suggested that Sooryavanshi’s biggest challenge will not be his batting or current form, but rather the mental aspect of the game. Lee advised that the teenager should be allowed to remain a kid and not be subjected to excessive pressure. This warning comes as Sooryavanshi transitions from a promising prospect to an IPL star and an India international, with attention around him expected to intensify.
Lee also shared how he would have approached bowling to Sooryavanshi, especially given the teenager’s confidence against short-pitched deliveries. He mentioned that he enjoyed facing batsmen who were proficient at hooking or pulling the ball, as it created a contest. Lee indicated he would study Sooryavanshi’s game and test him with bouncers, acknowledging that the teenager might hit him for a six but that it would not deter him from continuing the challenge.
Navigating potential pitfalls
Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa offered a crucial warning to Sooryavanshi, drawing parallels with the careers of Vinod Kambli and Prithvi Shaw. Uthappa believes Sooryavanshi has the potential to make a greater impact in white-ball cricket than Sachin Tendulkar, but he stressed that talent alone is insufficient for sustained success. He highlighted the importance of proper management, mentorship, and avoiding distractions.
Uthappa noted that Indian cricket has seen several gifted youngsters who struggled to fulfil their early promise despite dazzling starts. He emphasised the critical role of a strong support system and effective mentorship in protecting young cricketers from the pressures and distractions that accompany early fame. For Uthappa, Sooryavanshi’s ability to maintain his hunger, innocence, and love for the game, along with prioritising cricket over commercial commitments, will be crucial for his long-term career.
The former India batter praised Sooryavanshi’s fearless approach but cautioned that the teenager’s future will depend as much on the people around him as on his extraordinary talent. Uthappa specifically mentioned that Sooryavanshi’s first test will be to remain “pristine for the game” for a period of five years, from his current age of 15 until he is 20. He underscored the need to protect the innocence that defines the young cricketer.
Uthappa also commended Sooryavanshi’s reported decision to decline various advertisements, viewing it as a reflection of the correct mindset at this stage of his career. He warned that as Sooryavanshi approaches 18, he will be perceived as an adult, and factors such as female attention could become a distraction. Uthappa acknowledged that setbacks are an inevitable part of any sporting journey and stressed that having the right mentors and support system will be vital in helping the teenager cope with the pressures of early fame, ensuring he can navigate difficult phases in his career.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
