Vaibhav Suryawanshi's Future in Cricket Under Scrutiny Amid U-19 World Cup
The cricketing community is abuzz with discussions about Vaibhav Suryawanshi's future as former cricketer WV Raman questions his participation in the Under-19 World Cup. With Suryawanshi's impressive track record at a young age, including his IPL debut and remarkable performances in age-group cricket, the debate intensifies over whether exceptional talents should follow traditional paths. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on how Suryawanshi balances his promising career with the demands of competitive cricket.
Jan 16, 2026, 22:20 IST
Concerns Over Vaibhav Suryawanshi's U-19 Participation
Questions have arisen regarding the career trajectory of emerging batsman Vaibhav Suryawanshi, following former Indian cricketer WV Raman's expressed disagreement with his participation in Under-19 cricket.
WV Raman shared his views on social media, stating that Suryawanshi has outgrown the Under-19 level, suggesting that playing at this stage could hinder his development rather than aid it. According to Raman, while Suryawanshi may achieve victories at the junior level, decisions in cricket should always consider long-term implications.
This discussion comes at a time when the ICC Under-19 World Cup is underway. The reigning champions, Australia, are defending their title, while India, a five-time winner, is once again seen as a strong contender. Reports indicate that Suryawanshi is expected to play a crucial role in the Indian team.
At just 14 years old, Suryawanshi's journey has been anything but conventional. He has not only represented the India-A team but has also made a significant impact in the IPL. Notably, he was picked by the Rajasthan Royals at the age of 13 and scored 252 runs at an impressive strike rate of over 200 in his debut IPL season. His record century garnered considerable attention in the cricketing world.
His performance in age-group cricket has also been remarkable. In the Under-19 Asia Cup, he scored 171 runs against the UAE and followed it up with a century against South Africa's U-19 team. A quick-fire 96 in a warm-up match before the World Cup showcased his aggressive playing style.
However, selectors believe that playing at the Under-19 level is not just about scoring runs; it also provides players with discipline, leadership skills, and experience under pressure. Raman's comments have reignited the debate on whether exceptional talents should follow a traditional path or have a tailored development plan.
As the Under-19 World Cup progresses, all eyes will be on Vaibhav Suryawanshi, not only for the outcomes of the matches but also for how Indian cricket balances its future with the present.