Will Suryavanshi's Fitness and Fielding Secure His Spot in the T20I Team within Two Years?

New Delhi, May 23 (NationPress) Although the Rajasthan Royals had a disappointing run in IPL 2025, they discovered a promising talent in the young batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi. With his impressive shot-making and explosive six-hitting skills, the teenager scored 252 runs across seven innings in IPL 2025.

Fresh in everyone's mind is his phenomenal 35-ball century against the Gujarat Titans and a composed half-century against the Chennai Super Kings. Suryavanshi, aged just 14, now faces a significant challenge as he prepares to represent India in their multi-format tour of England this coming June-July.

Ashok Kumar, who has coached Suryavanshi in both the Bihar U19 and senior men's teams, is optimistic about his prospects of joining the senior men's T20I squad within two years, provided he enhances his fitness and fielding skills.

"His determination to win matches single-handedly was evident during his 35-ball hundred against the Gujarat Titans. With guidance from Rahul Dravid and Vikram Rathour, his batting has improved significantly. His practice with the white ball has paid off, and he has developed a keen sense of situational awareness," Kumar remarked in an exclusive interview with IANS on Friday.

India U19 is set to face England U19 in a series of matches, including a 50-over warm-up, a five-match one-day series, and two multi-day games. This tour will present Suryavanshi with his first opportunity to compete in challenging conditions in England, serving as a critical step in India's preparation for the 2026 U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.

"Given his current form and confidence, I believe Vaibhav will excel during the U19 tour of England. His IPL performances were just a preview of his capabilities. From my observations since his Bihar U19 days, this is how he plays best," Kumar added.

"His adaptability in various situations is what sets him apart. While some may label him as an aggressive player, this has been his natural style since childhood. His intent and approach will remain consistent in upcoming matches," Kumar explained.

Before and during the IPL 2025 matches, Suryavanshi consistently sought advice from Kumar, who praised the mental growth he has exhibited. "There were no concerns regarding his technique, but his mental evolution has been remarkable. During our discussions throughout the IPL, he demonstrated greater mental strength than before," Kumar shared.

"His commitment has increased; he often asserts, 'Sir, mei India khel ke hi rahunga' (I will play for India at any cost). We take immense pride in seeing such talent emerge from Bihar," he concluded.

Thanks to the support he has received, Suryavanshi has made it to the U19 India team for the Australia series (where he scored a 58-ball century), participated in the U19 Asia Cup, and is now selected for the England tour. Upon his return, his name may well be in contention for the Duleep and Deodhar Trophies.

In a recent match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Suryavanshi showcased his ability to pace his innings, starting at 12 off 10 balls before accelerating to reach his fifty against CSK. Kumar recalled advising Suryavanshi to exercise patience and be more selective with his shot choices, especially considering previous dismissals.

“Before the match against CSK, I advised Vaibhav to take a more measured approach and choose his shots wisely, as he recognized his own mistakes in prior matches. He assured me, 'Karenge na, sir' (I will do it)," Kumar recounted.

"When he got out to Ashwin's delivery, we had already discussed where Ashwin might pitch the ball. If Vaibhav had played straight, as he did with Jadeja, he wouldn’t have gotten out," Kumar elaborated.

Following RR's six-wicket victory, Suryavanshi was seen paying his respects by touching the feet of the legendary MS Dhoni. Kumar concluded by highlighting a quality inherent in Suryavanshi since his early days: "He never hesitates to seek blessings from senior players on the field. The more blessings he receives, the better it is for his future."