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Français (Afrique)Indian cricket icon Kapil Dev has called upon fans and experts to be patient with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after his first senior national call-up, arguing that burdening the teenager with massive expectations this early is unfair.
The 15-year-old star recently eclipsed Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record to become the youngest individual ever picked for the Indian senior men’s side. His name features in the squad for the upcoming T20I tours of Ireland, England and the Asian Games in Japan.
Kapil Dev hailed the 15-year-old Sooryavanshi as a `special talent` while adding that moving into the international game involves a period of significant adaptation.
"He is a special talent; give him time, but he definitely showed the talent that he has. I think he is unbelievable, but again, he will have to conduct himself (in the Indian team), keep himself fit, and a lot of other things are going to happen when you are part of the national team. How much he is focused, only he can answer, but to me, he is a special talent," Kapil told PTI Videos on Monday.
Kapil Dev also added that Sooryavanshi will quickly realise the vast gap between domestic cricket and representing the nation.
"There`s nothing wrong with giving respect to the young kid, but expecting too much at this stage would be wrong; he has just been included in the team. He will understand that club cricket is totally different from playing for your country, it`s a different thought process, so give him time, don`t start expecting too much, just give him time," he said.
Madan Lal backs Sooryavanshi to succeed in international cricket
Former Indian fast bowler Madan Lal expressed total confidence that the young prodigy would translate his prolific Indian Premier League form into international success.
"This is a very big moment for him because he is a 15-year-old player who has forced his selection. He has got this chance because of his good performance. I think he will definitely be able to do it because he has the talent in abundance. Why won`t he be able to do it? He is also in good form." Lal said.
(With PTI inputs)