Chennai: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has advised against rushing teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi into the senior national team, despite growing calls for his India debut after a stunning IPL 2026 performance.
Sooryavanshi, just 15, lit up the tournament with a blistering 15-ball fifty for Rajasthan Royals against Chennai Super Kings, sparking widespread debate about his readiness for international cricket.
Experts push for early call-up
Former cricketers Mohammad Kaif and Michael Vaughan have backed the idea of an early India debut, suggesting the youngster’s talent is already at the highest level.
Their views reflect the excitement surrounding Sooryavanshi, who has consistently delivered across IPL, India A, and Under-19 formats.
Ashwin: “Why are we in a hurry?”
Ashwin, however, struck a cautionary note, emphasising the importance of long-term development over immediate promotion.
“Don’t give him such a target. He is not even a man, he is a kid,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
Drawing a comparison with MS Dhoni’s longevity, he pointed out that Sooryavanshi potentially has more than two decades of cricket ahead.
“He is too good not to play for India. He will play eventually. But why are we always in a hurry?” Ashwin added.
Talent beyond his years
Despite advocating patience, Ashwin was full of praise for the youngster’s extraordinary ability.
He highlighted Sooryavanshi’s incredible bat speed and shot-making, especially on a tricky Guwahati surface where other batters struggled.
“What a player he is! CSK had no answers against him,” Ashwin remarked.
RR emerge as strong contenders
Ashwin also noted that Sooryavanshi’s presence strengthens Rajasthan Royals’ chances in IPL 2026.
With fearless batting and composure beyond his years, the teenager has added a new dimension to the RR lineup, making them serious title contenders.
Long road ahead
Sooryavanshi’s journey has already been remarkable—becoming the youngest centurion in IPL history at 14 and continuing to break records in youth cricket.
However, Ashwin believes careful handling at this stage is crucial to ensure sustained success at the highest level.
Conclusion
While the clamour for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s India debut grows louder, Ravichandran Ashwin’s measured perspective serves as a reminder that great careers are built over time. With immense talent and years ahead, the young prodigy appears destined for international cricket—just not in a hurry.