Why BCCI Must Shield Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s Talent Now

BCCI urged to protect 14-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi like Sachin Tendulkar and avoid past mistakes with Vinod Kambli, Prithvi Shaw.

BCCI Urged to Protect Vaibhav Suryavanshi from Fame Fallout

The 14-Year-Old IPL Sensation Shatters Records—and Raises Eyebrows

At just 14 years old, Vaibhav Suryavanshi has ignited Indian cricket with a performance that defied both logic and precedent. In his debut Indian Premier League (IPL) season, the young batter blasted a 35-ball century—making it the second-fastest ton in IPL history. Fans roared, analysts marveled, and cricketing veterans took notice. Yet amid the applause, a cautionary voice emerged—former India coach Greg Chappell—urging cricket authorities to tread carefully.

Vaibhav’s rise is meteoric, but so too were the ascents of Vinod Kambli and Prithvi Shaw. Their stories, however, serve as sobering reminders that talent alone doesn’t guarantee longevity.

From Tendulkar to Kambli: A Tale of Two Prodigies

Few names evoke the glory of Indian cricket like Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted as a teenager and went on to become the sport’s most revered icon. With over 34,000 runs across formats, Tendulkar’s career remains a benchmark for consistency and discipline.

But for every Sachin, there’s a Vinod Kambli—blessed with equal talent but derailed by poor decisions and inadequate support. Kambli’s Test average was impressive (54.20), and his twin double centuries remain etched in memory. Yet his international career ended prematurely due to inconsistency and off-field distractions, including struggles with alcohol.

“Sachin had a solid support system—family, mentors, and a calm temperament,” Chappell wrote in ESPNCricinfo. “Kambli didn’t. That made all the difference.”

The Prithvi Shaw Parallel: Promise Undone by Pitfalls

Another cautionary tale is Prithvi Shaw. Heralded as the next big thing after leading India to the Under-19 World Cup win in 2018 and scoring a century on Test debut, Shaw’s career has since sputtered. While his teammates like Shubman Gill and Arshdeep Singh thrive, Shaw remains on the fringes, plagued by fitness concerns and off-field controversies.

Despite undeniable potential, he went unsold in the latest IPL auction—underscoring how quickly the spotlight can dim when promise meets indiscipline.

Chappell’s Caution: “Talent Can’t Be Bubble-Wrapped”

Chappell’s message to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is clear: nurture, don’t exploit. “These stories don’t challenge the potential of youth,” he noted, “they question the system’s wisdom in managing it.”

He emphasized that cricket’s ecosystem—from boardroom to dressing room—must shield Vaibhav from undue pressure. The teen prodigy must not become a marketing tool or media obsession. Instead, he should be surrounded by coaches, mentors, and guardians who put his development above all else.

“Talent can’t be bubble-wrapped,” Chappell wrote, “but it can be provided a buffer.”

Building a Safety Net for India’s Young Star

Experts suggest a multi-tiered approach to ensure Vaibhav’s growth doesn’t stall. Former players have pointed out that early fame brings immense pressure, which few adolescents are equipped to handle alone. Regular mental health check-ins, balanced media exposure, and mentorship from senior players could prove vital.

Veteran cricketer VVS Laxman recently advocated for a “shadow team” of sports psychologists and life coaches to work with young players entering the IPL. “Skills get you in the game,” he said, “but character keeps you there.”

A Test for Indian Cricket’s Maturity

India’s cricketing machinery has long been excellent at spotting talent. The challenge now is managing it responsibly. Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s extraordinary skill is not in question—his explosive century speaks for itself. But whether he will follow the path of Tendulkar or veer toward the fate of Kambli or Shaw depends not just on him, but on those guiding him.

The next few years will be critical. Will the BCCI step up to create a sustainable path for its youngest sensation? Or will history, once again, repeat itself?

Conclusion: Nurturing Potential, Not Just Headlines

As Indian cricket celebrates the emergence of another potential superstar, the focus must shift from hype to holistic development. Let Vaibhav’s journey be defined by thoughtful mentorship, not rushed milestones. A record-breaking knock at 14 is extraordinary—but what’s more remarkable is protecting that spark so it doesn’t burn out too soon.

Disclaimer:

This article is based on public reports and commentary from cricket experts. The information aims to offer insight and opinion and does not serve as an official statement from the BCCI or the individuals mentioned.

source : Hindustan Times