Calls for an early India cap have been sparked by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s record-breaking IPL exploits, but spin legend Anil Kumble has cautioned that the young prodigy’s journey shouldn’t be hurried.
Speaking on a variety of topics during a meeting in Mumbai on Friday, Kumble pointed out that early expectations might put undue pressure on a young athlete, even though extraordinary potential can make it hard to hold a player back.
The player himself probably answers that question,” PTI quoted Kumble as saying, alluding to the debate between moderate advancement and fast-tracking.
He was compared to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, whose steady achievements as a teenager in the late 1980s created an indisputable case for selection.
Sooryavanshi has exhibited encouraging indicators, according to Kumble, who also noted that the 15-year-old youngster is “doing all the right things.”
“At this point in time, it’s a bit of pressure on a young lad to say, ‘I want you to play for India in two months’ time,'” he said.
The former India captain emphasized the benefit of youth and noted that Sooryavanshi has time on his side.
“Even 10 years later, he’s going to be 25,” he remarked.
Kumble reiterated that there is no set route to success in cricket, stating that players may make important contributions at any point in their careers. He was sure that Sooryavanshi’s performances would keep the selectors interested in him.
“For Vaibhav, it could be this year, next year, or maybe a couple of years later. But the way he is batting, he’s certainly someone the selectors will be watching closely,” Kumble added.
