New Delhi: India’s teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will have his parents alongside him during the upcoming white-ball tour of Ireland and England. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has made a special arrangement for the 15-year-old, allowing his parents to accompany him throughout the tour.
What did the BCCI say about the decision?
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed these developments. He said the board would bear the expenses for the arrangements. According to Saikia, the decision was taken considering Sooryavanshi’s age and the challenges that come with being part of a senior national squad at the young age of 15.
”You see, not all national teams at the senior level have a 14-or 15-year-old in their squad. After many decades, we have someone like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.” He said during the conversation with the media.
Why does the Board feel special support is necessary?
Explaining the move, Saikia mentioned that it is rare for a player of Sooryavanshi’s age to be chosen in the senior national team. He pointed out that most of the squad members and support staff are adults, and having his parents around would help the youngster settle into the environment more comfortably.
He further added, ”At one point in time, it was Sachin Tendulkar who made it to the national team at such a young age. When such a young kid is part of the senior team, there are obviously a lot of issues that can crop up. Therefore, to make him comfortable and help him get used to an adult environment, where all the other players are above 18 years of age, and the team management members are also adults, we felt it would be helpful. We are doing this because we believe it will ease a lot of issues as far as Vaibhav is concerned.”
Saikia also drew comparisons with school excursions, where younger students are often accompanied by senior guardians. He described Sooryavanshi as a young cricketer who is still in his school years and said the board wanted to ensure he receives the support needed during an important phase of his career. He also delivered happiness, quoting his parents, who took good care of their kid, and made him an asset for Indian cricket not only now but for the next two or three decades.
Is Vaibhav being seen as a long-term prospect?
The BCCI secretary called Sooryavanshi a valuable asset for Indian cricket. He expressed confidence that the youngsters could play a significant role in the country in the years ahead. He also praised the support provided by the player’s family in helping him manage the early stages of his career.
How has Vaibhav’s rise through the ranks unfolded?
After impressing over the last two Indian Premier League (IPL) seasons, Sooryavanshi earned a place in the ‘India A squad’. He also recently featured in the 50-over tri-series in Sri Lanka. His rapid progress has now been rewarded with a call-up to the senior national side.
When could Vaibhav make his international debut?
Sooryavanshi could make his international debut when India takes on Ireland in the opening match of the white-ball series. This will be in Belfast on June 26. The tour will also include matches in England, giving the youngster his first taste of senior international cricket overseas.
