Irfan Pathan advises Vaibhav Suryavanshi to adapt to bowlers' tactics

Former all-rounder for the Indian national team, Irfan Pathan, urged fifteen-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi to constantly anticipate his opponents' tactical approaches.

Advice on International Cricket

Pathan believes that the real test for young batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi begins now. He emphasized that the 15-year-old athlete must prepare for the strategic plans that bowlers will devise against him after his bright start in international cricket.

Speaking ahead of the third T20I match against England on Tuesday evening, Pathan noted that Suryavanshi's fearless approach should be maintained, but adapting to the opposition's strategies will be crucial for his future success.

Tactical Remarks

Pathan previously told Jio Hotstar this week: 'He is a special talent, no doubt, but he must ensure he is ready for the plans the bowlers will come up with against him.' He also added that, for instance, in the first match, if one wants to face spinners in England, it is not a bad option because the ball doesn't spin much there, but balance must be maintained and one must not stray too far from the ball.

Game Assessment and Future

Last weekend, Suryavanshi scored 14 runs off 10 balls in the second T20I match before being dismissed by spin. Nevertheless, Pathan supported the young player's intentions, stating that he liked that the teenager did not abandon his natural attacking game. He noted that Suryavanshi might be disappointed about being dismissed for 14 runs and that his strike rate slightly fell short of his set standards. However, he highly praised the player for not deviating from his natural style of play.

Pathan also stressed that the fifteen-year-old boy playing international cricket is not only a significant moment for the Indian team in that match but also for world cricket as a whole. He inspires an entire new generation of young boys and girls with his example, demonstrating that 'if I can do it, you can too.'

Current Schedule

After the conclusion of the IPL this year, where Suryavanshi was named Player of the Season, he is currently touring with India in England. He is expected to be a regular member of the teams in the current T20Is, the fourth of which will take place on Thursday, and the final match on Saturday. After this, India will begin a three-match ODI series against England, starting next Tuesday and concluding next Sunday. Shortly after that, there will be a tour of Zimbabwe.