Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin offered important advice to 15-year-old Vaibha Suryavanshi, addressing fans and experts. He urged that the 'Baby Boss' should not be burdened with too many expectations right now. Ashwin believes that Vaibha has the potential to become the next big star in Indian cricket, but for the time being, he should be allowed to hone his skills without pressure.
Furthermore, he shared his opinion regarding Sanju Samson's position in the squad ahead of the upcoming T20 match against New Zealand.
Vaibha Suryavanshi was given an opportunity to play in the second and third T20 matches of the series due to Ishan Kishan's injury. In the second T20, Vaibha batted at number three, and in the subsequent match, Sanju Samson, opting out of the opening slot, started the game alongside Abhishek Sharma. This pair secured a partnership of 133 runs, which significantly eased India's path to victory.
According to Ravichandran Ashwin, Sanju's placement at number three was justified in Ishan Kishan's absence, as he possesses experience playing in that role. However, if Ishan Kishan returns for the fourth T20 in Auckland on October 30th, Sanju should return to the opening spot, and Vaibha might have to remain on the bench.
Vaibha Suryavanshi impressed with his explosive batting in the third T20, held in Wellington. He scored 45 runs off 19 balls, partnering with Abhishek Sharma and adding 133 runs to the team after the first wicket fell. This helped India reach the target of 199 runs with only 6.4 overs remaining in the match. Following this performance, discussions about Vaibha intensified, but Ravichandran Ashwin insists on giving his talent time.
Ravichandran Ashwin highly praised Vaibha Suryavanshi, noting that he displayed similar fearless play in the Indian Premier League (IPL). On the Sony LIV platform, he stated: 'The way Vaibha Suryavanshi started playing is how he played throughout the IPL. For me, he is a very special player and always will be. I look forward to many brilliant achievements in his career.'
Ravichandran Ashwin emphasized: 'When Ishan Kishan is not in the team and we need to give Vaibha a chance, this player order looks absolutely correct. Sanju has experience playing at number three. But if Ishan Kishan returns in the next match, in my opinion, Vaibha should remain on the bench, and Sanju should return to the position he deserves.'
Ashwin also noted that one should not rush to make predictions about Vaibha Suryavanshi. He recalled his early days in cricket, when at age 16, he enjoyed playing in stadiums and clubs in Chennai. He believes that Vaibha also needs such an environment for learning and development.
Ravichandran Ashwin concluded: 'It is wrong to make such loud statements at such a young age. I want this young player to have the freedom to play. I know that at some point he might become an icon of Indian cricket, but we all must step back a bit and let him enjoy his cricket. Vaibha did something exceptional on Tuesday (October 27th), but I do not want to draw any conclusions yet. He is a talent worthy of observation. Let him enjoy his game, and let us enjoy his batting.'