Dambulla: India A captain Tilak Varma has thrown his support behind teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, urging him to play with freedom ahead of the Tri-Nation Series final against Sri Lanka A.
The summit clash is set to be played on Sunday at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, with India A aiming to bounce back after a narrow defeat to Sri Lanka A earlier in the tournament.
‘Play your natural game’
Sooryavanshi, just 15, has been under the spotlight following a heated on-field altercation with Sri Lanka’s Vishen Halambage during their previous encounter, which India A lost in a Super Over.
Addressing the situation, Tilak emphasized the importance of allowing young players the freedom to express themselves without pressure.
“I’ve told him to keep playing his natural game, enjoy and not take pressure. At his age, this is the time to learn and express himself,” Tilak said.
He added that the youngster’s success so far has come from his fearless approach, and there is no need to change it.
Backing the prodigy
Tilak reiterated that the team management is fully behind Sooryavanshi and believes he can deliver in the high-pressure final.
“As captain, I’ve told him I’m always there if he needs anything. Just keep learning, enjoy the game and trust your strengths,” he said.
“If he gets going, we all know what he is capable of. We are hoping he comes good in the final.”
Transition to senior cricket a challenge
Sooryavanshi’s rapid rise has already earned him a place in India’s upcoming T20I squads against Ireland and England, marking his first stint with the senior national team.
Tilak acknowledged that stepping up from junior and India A cricket to the senior level will be a significant test for the youngster.
“It will definitely be challenging when he transitions to the senior team. He’s come from U-19 cricket, had a fantastic IPL, and now is part of a senior side,” Tilak noted.
‘Talent needs backing’
Despite the challenges ahead, Tilak expressed confidence in Sooryavanshi’s ability, stressing the importance of continued support.
“He’s extremely talented. If he gets going, he can finish games on his own. The most important thing for someone like him is backing. Young players need freedom,” he said.
As India A prepare for the final, the focus will be on delivering a strong performance, with hopes that the young prodigy can make a decisive impact on the big stage.