Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has become the centre of intense discussion in Indian cricket circles after former India cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth hailed him as a “Demi-God in the making” and urged the selectors to fast-track him into the national team.
The 15-year-old batting prodigy, who has impressed for Rajasthan Royals, is being widely tipped as one of the most exciting young talents in the country. Srikkanth, a member of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning squad, has gone a step further by publicly appealing to selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar to include the youngster in the senior setup without delay.
Speaking in an interview, Srikkanth said Sooryavanshi’s fearless approach makes him capable of changing games instantly, regardless of the opposition or conditions. He even suggested that the teenager should have been considered for the T20 World Cup squad.
“This guy, Sooryavanshi… he is simply outstanding. Ajit, I’m telling you, you need to fast-track him. He should be in the Indian setup,” Srikkanth said, adding that exposure in a 15-member squad would help him adapt to international cricket.
Srikkanth went on to praise the youngster’s aggressive mindset, saying he is unafraid of reputation or pressure. According to him, Sooryavanshi’s ability to take on world-class bowlers from the first ball sets him apart from his peers.
“He doesn’t care who the bowler is. First ball, he can hit anyone for a six. That kind of fearless attitude is rare,” he added.
Drawing a comparison from history, Srikkanth referenced his own experience as captain when a teenage Sachin Tendulkar was introduced to the Indian team in 1989 at the age of 16. He suggested that early exposure played a crucial role in Tendulkar’s journey to becoming one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
“Sachin Tendulkar came in as a 16-year-old prodigy and became the God of Cricket. Similarly, this boy could become the next Demi-God of cricket,” Srikkanth remarked.
Reports also suggest that Sooryavanshi is part of a shortlist being considered by the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee for India’s upcoming tour of Ireland following the conclusion of the IPL 2026 season. If selected, it would mark a significant step in his rapid rise through the ranks.
As debate continues around his readiness for international cricket, supporters argue that his fearless batting style makes him a rare talent worth investing in early, while others caution that gradual development may be the safer path.
