Former Sri Lanka pacer Chaminda Vaas urges patience with Sooryavanshi: ‘Don’t put him under pressure’

Former Sri Lanka fast bowler Chaminda Vaas believes teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has the potential to become a star for India but urged fans and experts to allow the 15-year-old the time and space to develop without the weight of overwhelming expectations.

Speaking to IANS on the sidelines of the Telangana T20 League (TG20), where he is serving as mentor of the Palamuru Strikers, Vaas said India has a proven track record of producing world-class cricketers and backed Sooryavanshi to follow the same path.

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“India has produced so many talented young cricketers over the years. Sooryavanshi is still very young, and I’m sure he’ll get the opportunity to play for India and perform well,” Vaas said.

“But one thing I’d like to ask people is not to put too much pressure on him. He’s only 15, and if he’s allowed to grow naturally, I’m sure he’ll do wonders for Indian cricket.”

Sooryavanshi has emerged as one of the country’s brightest young prospects after a sensational IPL 2026 campaign with Rajasthan Royals, where he amassed 776 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 237.30 to win the Player of the Tournament award. The left-hander is now in line for a potential international debut during India’s ongoing five-match T20I series against England after remaining on the bench during the tour of Ireland.

Vaas also praised the Hyderabad Cricket Association for launching the inaugural Telangana T20 League, describing state-based franchise competitions as an important platform for identifying emerging talent and preparing players for higher levels of the game.

“The Hyderabad Cricket Association has done a great job by organising the first Telangana T20 League. There’s so much talent across the teams,” he said.

“If you look at the Palamuru Strikers, there are several youngsters coming through the ranks. While we haven’t had the results we wanted as a team, a few individuals have been outstanding, and it’s encouraging to see their progress.”

Comparing TG20 with similar domestic leagues across India, Vaas said the country’s robust cricket structure continues to be one of the biggest reasons behind its production line of elite cricketers.

“Indian cricket has done a fantastic job in creating opportunities for youngsters. It’s not just Hyderabad—almost every state now has its own T20 tournament, giving players valuable exposure and experience,” he said.

“These tournaments create a pathway to the IPL, and from there, many players go on to represent India. It’s wonderful to see young cricketers taking that next step.”