Is Sooryavanshi’s Calmness in Finals a Unique Talent? Aakash Chopra Thinks So
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New Delhi, Feb 7 (NationPress) Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra praised Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his remarkable century in the Under-19 World Cup final, which led the team to secure their record sixth title in this prestigious tournament.
The 14-year-old was pivotal in India's impressive total of 411/9 during their 50-over innings, scoring an astonishing 175 runs off just 80 balls, while the bowlers effectively restricted England to 311 runs in 40.2 overs, yielding a 100-run triumph for India in the final.
“Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was dismissed in the 26th over, having already accumulated 175 runs. By the time he left the pitch, the team's score was 250, with him contributing a colossal 175. This performance highlights the exceptional talent he possesses. The Indian Under-19 squad is setting new benchmarks. While he doesn't hit a six every time, his capability to forget about the previous ball and remain unshaken during a final exemplifies a rare skill,” Chopra remarked on JioHotstar.
“One might argue that some skills are innate, but they also require refinement. It’s a mindset where you believe no one can hinder you. That level of confidence is truly admirable. At just 14, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi appears unfazed. His performances in the semifinal against Afghanistan and the final against England, where he could turn a match around single-handedly, indicate a promising future for Indian cricket,” he further elaborated.
Sooryavanshi was the standout performer in the match. Despite being only 14, he has long been regarded as a prodigy, especially after making headlines last IPL as the youngest player to score a century. However, his display in this final surpassed all expectations, showcasing a performance that redefined the concept of an outstanding innings.
What truly distinguished his innings was his poise. Even at such a young age, he exhibited an extraordinary grasp of pacing. He respected the new ball initially, scoring only 24 runs from his first 24 deliveries, before switching gears and demolishing the bowling attack, with an impressive 150 of his 175 runs coming from boundaries, including 15 enormous sixes.