Former India captain and 1983 World Cup-winning skipper Kapil Dev has urged cricket fans and experts to remain patient with teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, despite the youngster's remarkable rise in domestic and franchise cricket. The legendary all-rounder described the 15-year-old as a special talent but warned against placing excessive expectations on him at such an early stage of his career.

Sooryavanshi has emerged as one of the most talked-about young cricketers in the world after a string of record-breaking performances across various competitions. The left-handed batter's reputation soared further during IPL 2026, where he enjoyed a sensational campaign. He finished as the tournament's leading run-scorer to claim the Orange Cap and was also named the Most Valuable Player (MVP), achievements that have intensified calls for his inclusion in the senior Indian team.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Kapil Dev praised the teenager's extraordinary ability while stressing that a proper assessment of his career can only be made after several more years at the highest level. "Vaibhav is too young. But yes, he is a special talent and full stop," Kapil said. Drawing comparisons with one of India's greatest-ever cricketers, Kapil added that Sooryavanshi possesses talent similar to what a young Sachin Tendulkar displayed at the age of 16. However, he emphasized that longevity remains the true test of greatness in international cricket.

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Kapil noted that while the teenager's potential is undeniable, the challenges ahead will be significantly tougher than what he has faced so far. "He is like Sachin at the age of 16 but can he play that long? He had to go a long way," Kapil remarked. The former captain's comments reflect a broader view within Indian cricket that young talents should be nurtured carefully rather than burdened by comparisons and expectations that could hinder their development.

This is not the first time Kapil has advised caution regarding the hype surrounding Sooryavanshi. Earlier this month, he told PTI that while the youngster deserves recognition for his achievements, expecting immediate success at the international level would be unfair. Kapil pointed out that the transition from domestic and age-group cricket to representing the national team requires a completely different mindset and level of preparation. He urged fans and the media to give the teenager time to adapt and grow.

Sooryavanshi recently strengthened his credentials with another stunning performance for India A in the Tri-Nation A Series in Sri Lanka. In the tournament final, he blasted 94 runs off just 29 deliveries, including a List A record half-century in only 11 balls, helping India A secure victory. With selectors closely monitoring his progress, the teenage prodigy is widely expected to be considered for India's upcoming T20I tour of Ireland and England. Whether or not a senior debut comes soon, Sooryavanshi's rapid rise has already made him one of the most exciting prospects in Indian cricket.

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