New Delhi: As teenage cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi edges closer to making history as the youngest-ever player to feature in the Indian men’s cricket team, former India mental conditioning coach Paddy Upton has advised the team management to prepare the youngster for the harsh realities of international cricket, particularly failure and criticism.

Sooryavanshi, who is expected to join the senior squad for the upcoming white-ball tour of Ireland and England, has already created significant buzz with his aggressive batting style and consistent performances in junior and domestic cricket. However, his recent outing in the Tri-Nation A series exposed certain vulnerabilities, especially against short-pitched deliveries, raising questions about his readiness for the highest level.

Upton stresses importance of mental preparation

Paddy Upton, who played a crucial role in India’s 2011 ODI World Cup triumph and has also worked with the country’s Olympic medal-winning hockey team, emphasised that preparing young players mentally is as important as honing their technical skills.

He suggested that the management should begin by setting realistic expectations for Sooryavanshi, including the possibility of early failures in his international career.

Upton explained that it is almost inevitable for a young player to face a lean patch, especially when transitioning to international cricket, where the quality of opposition and pressure levels are significantly higher. According to him, the focus should not be on avoiding failure but on equipping the player with the tools to handle setbacks effectively.

Handling criticism and public pressure

One of the key concerns highlighted by Upton was the intense scrutiny that comes with representing India at the senior level. He pointed out that a young cricketer like Sooryavanshi would be under constant media attention and public expectation, which could amplify the impact of poor performances.

He advised that the youngster should be mentally prepared to deal with criticism, negative headlines and the noise that accompanies any dip in form. Developing resilience and emotional stability, he said, would be critical in ensuring a long and successful career.

Upton’s approach focuses on preparing players “for the worst”, enabling them to remain grounded and composed even during challenging phases. He believes that such preparation often becomes the foundation for sustained success.

BCCI ensures support system for teenager

Recognising the unique challenges of introducing a 14 or 15-year-old into the senior national setup, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken additional measures to support Sooryavanshi during the tour.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the board has allowed the youngster’s parents to accompany him on the tour of Ireland and England. The decision aims to provide emotional support and help him adapt to an environment where most players and support staff are adults.

Saikia drew parallels with the early career of Sachin Tendulkar, who made his debut at the age of 16 and went on to become one of the greatest cricketers in history. He acknowledged that managing a prodigious talent at such a young age requires careful handling to ensure both professional growth and personal well-being.

Opportunity and challenges ahead

Sooryavanshi has been selected for seven matches on the tour, including two games against Ireland and five against England, starting June 26 in Belfast. The series presents a significant opportunity for the youngster to showcase his talent on the international stage.

At the same time, it also marks the beginning of a challenging journey where he will face experienced bowlers, high-pressure situations and constant evaluation. His ability to adapt quickly and learn from setbacks will play a crucial role in shaping his future.

Conclusion

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s rise to the brink of international cricket at such a young age is a testament to his exceptional talent and hard work. However, as experts like Paddy Upton suggest, success at the highest level requires more than just skill.

By preparing the youngster for failure and ensuring a strong support system, the Indian team management aims to help him navigate the complexities of international cricket. If handled well, Sooryavanshi has the potential to become a long-term asset for Indian cricket, following in the footsteps of legends who started young and went on to achieve greatness.