Kapil Dev Warns Against Rushing Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Future: ‘Give Him Another Three Years’
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has quickly become one of the most talked-about young cricketers in India, but former India captain Kapil Dev believes it is too soon to predict how far the teenage batter can go.
At just 15, Sooryavanshi has already made headlines across age-group cricket, India A and the IPL before earning a place in India’s T20I setup. His rapid rise has naturally led to comparisons with some of the biggest names in Indian cricket.
However, Kapil believes the youngster needs time to develop before such comparisons can carry any real meaning.
Kapil Dev asks for patience
Speaking to The Times of India, Kapil acknowledged Sooryavanshi’s ability but warned that talent alone does not guarantee a long international career.
According to Kapil, cricket has seen several gifted youngsters make a strong start before failing to maintain that level over the years.
He pointed to former India batter Vinod Kambli as an example of a player whose extraordinary talent did not ultimately translate into the prolonged career many expected.
“It’s too early. Does he have the ability? Yes. But there have been so many in cricket who came with so much ability, then faded out,” Kapil said.
Why the next few years will be important
Sooryavanshi is still at the beginning of his career, and Kapil believes his development away from the immediate spotlight could be more important than his current statistics.
The former India captain suggested waiting another three years before making serious judgments about the teenager’s long-term prospects.
Kapil also highlighted how a young player’s lifestyle, mindset and maturity can change significantly during these formative years.
“Vaibhav is 15 years old. Give him another three years, then we will talk,” Kapil said.
The message is clear: while performances can attract attention, consistency and the ability to handle changing circumstances will ultimately determine whether a young player can remain at the highest level.
Sooryavanshi has already made a huge impact
Despite his young age, Sooryavanshi has already produced several extraordinary performances.
In June, he smashed the fastest half-century in List A cricket, reaching 50 from just 11 balls while representing India A against Sri Lanka A. He eventually scored 94 from 29 deliveries in the tri-series final.
Earlier, he had also delivered a spectacular performance in the Under-19 World Cup final, scoring 175 from 80 balls to help India lift the title.
His performances in the IPL further increased the spotlight around him, and he subsequently became part of India’s T20I setup.
Kapil is looking for the next long-term star
For Kapil, the bigger question is not simply whether a youngster can produce spectacular innings. He wants to identify players capable of remaining at the top level for many years.
He referenced legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who were able to establish themselves and remain among the leading figures in Indian cricket for a long period.
Kapil said he is always interested in identifying young players who have the potential to build careers lasting 10 or even 15 years.
That is where Sooryavanshi’s journey will eventually be judged. His early numbers and record-breaking performances have already created enormous excitement, but sustaining that success will require patience, discipline and continued development.
For now, Kapil’s advice is simple: do not rush to decide what Sooryavanshi will become.
At 15, the teenager has plenty of time to learn, adapt and grow. His talent has already opened the door, but the years ahead will determine whether he can turn that promise into a long and successful international career.
SEO Title: Kapil Dev Warns Against Rushing Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Future
Meta Description: Kapil Dev says it is too early to predict Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s future and urges fans to give the 15-year-old time to develop.