Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has dropped a bombshell revelation about teenage cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi—recalling how Australian legend Matthew Hayden flat-out refused to believe the prodigy was just 14 years old after watching him bat.
“He can’t be 14,” Shastri quoted Hayden as saying during a recent interview, highlighting the rare maturity and technique the young batter displayed on the field. The anecdote has reignited national excitement around Sooryavanshi, with many already drawing comparisons to a young Sachin Tendulkar.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: The Next Big Thing in Indian Cricket?
At just 14, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has already turned heads across domestic circuits and age-group tournaments with his elegant strokeplay, calm demeanor under pressure, and an uncanny ability to read the game like a seasoned pro. His performances in U-16 and U-19 matches have drawn scouts from IPL franchises and national selectors alike.
But according to Shastri, raw talent alone isn’t enough. “The next three to four years are absolutely critical,” he emphasized, warning that without proper guidance, even the brightest stars can fade under the weight of hype and expectation.
Why Matthew Hayden Was Stunned
During a training camp where international legends observed emerging Indian talent, Sooryavanshi faced high-quality pace and spin with composure rarely seen in teenagers. Hayden, known for his aggressive batting and sharp eye for talent, reportedly turned to Shastri mid-session and said, “Mate, there’s no way this kid is 14.”
Shastri confirmed the story and added, “That’s the kind of impact Vaibhav has. He doesn’t just play shots—he constructs innings.”
Shastri’s Roadmap for Sooryavanshi’s Development
While social media clamors for Sooryavanshi’s IPL debut, Shastri is urging patience. His advice? Focus on red-ball cricket to build technique, temperament, and resilience.
- Play multi-day cricket: Build concentration and adaptability against varied bowling attacks.
- Avoid early commercialization: Shield from excessive media and brand deals until mentally ready.
- Mentorship over hype: Pair with experienced coaches who prioritize long-term growth over short-term fame.
Comparisons to Sachin Tendulkar—Fair or Premature?
Shastri didn’t shy away from the Tendulkar comparison—but with caution. “Sachin was also technically sound, fearless, and mature beyond his years at 14. Vaibhav has those qualities. But comparisons can be dangerous if they create unrealistic pressure.”
He stressed that Sooryavanshi must be allowed to fail, learn, and evolve—just like any other athlete.
What’s Next for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi?
Sooryavanshi is expected to feature in upcoming U-19 domestic tournaments and may be fast-tracked into India’s U-19 World Cup squad. Several IPL teams have reportedly placed him on their “future talent” watchlists, though he remains ineligible for auction until 2027.
For now, the cricketing world watches—and waits—with bated breath.