In the wake of Vaibhav Suryavanshi's sensational performances, calls are growing for the BCCI to fast-track the 14-year-old into the Indian national team, drawing parallels with Sachin Tendulkar's early entry into international cricket.
The teen batting sensation has captured the attention of the cricketing world with his explosive displays in the IPL 2025 and consistent run-scoring in Under-19 cricket. IPL chairman Arun Dhumal has lauded Suryavanshi's temperament, talent, and potential, further fueling speculation about a possible India call-up in his early teens. "We have young players in our team who are fully prepared to represent India in the future. Vaibhav Suryavanshi is one of them," Dhumal stated.
Former India cricketer Kris Srikkanth has strongly advocated for Suryavanshi's inclusion, drawing a direct comparison to Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted for India at the age of 16. Srikkanth believes Suryavanshi possesses "tremendous potential" and should be fast-tracked into the Indian team. "People say let him play for some more time, let him do this, let him do that. Sachin also played at such a young age," Srikkanth said. He emphasized that Suryavanshi shouldn't be left behind and should at least be included in the reserves.
Sachin Tendulkar made his Test debut against Pakistan in Karachi in November 1989 at the age of 16 years and 205 days. He also became the youngest player to score a Test fifty. At 17, Tendulkar blasted an unbeaten 119, becoming the youngest Indian to score a Test hundred.
Suryavanshi's recent record-breaking innings of 190 off 84 balls for Bihar against Arunachal Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 has further amplified the calls for his early inclusion. This knock made him the youngest cricketer to slam a century in men's List A cricket. He also broke AB de Villiers' record for the fastest 150 in men's List A cricket, reaching the milestone in just 59 balls.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has also joined the chorus, comparing Suryavanshi's talent to that of Tendulkar at 14 and urging the BCCI to consider him for the national squad. "The last time a fourteen-year-old showed such prodigious cricketing talent, it was Sachin Tendulkar - and we all know what became of him. What are you waiting for? Vaibhav Suryavanshi for India!" Tharoor posted on X.
Despite the growing clamor, some experts have cautioned against rushing Suryavanshi into the national team. Former Indian selector Devang Gandhi suggested that Suryavanshi needs to challenge himself with "tough" cricket to continue his development. Concerns have also been raised about whether he is spending time at the right level of play, with Bihar currently in the Plate group for the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Suryavanshi's talent is undeniable. In 15 Youth ODIs, he averages 51.13 with two centuries and a jaw-dropping strike-rate of 158.79. He also scored an IPL century for Rajasthan Royals, further showcasing his potential.
The BCCI is closely monitoring Suryavanshi's progress, recognizing his potential to become a future star. The decision to fast-track him into the national team will depend on a variety of factors, including his continued performance, his ability to handle pressure, and the needs of the Indian team.
