Sri Lanka great Sanath Jayasuriya has backed teenage Indian batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, describing him as a “different kind of talent” and the future of Indian cricket. At the same time, Jayasuriya has advised against rushing the youngster into India's playing XI, stressing that the 15-year-old has plenty of time to develop and prove himself.
Sooryavanshi was part of India's squad for the recently concluded three-match T20I series against Afghanistan but did not feature in the playing XI. The Indian team management retained Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma as the opening combination throughout the series. India went on to complete a 3-0 series sweep, with both openers making significant contributions during the matches.
Speaking to PTI on the sidelines of the launch of the Corporate World Cup in Gurugram, Jayasuriya said Sooryavanshi possesses a rare talent and has enough time on his side. He stressed that the youngster should be given opportunities at the appropriate stage rather than being rushed into the team.
Jayasuriya Calls Sooryavanshi India's Future
Jayasuriya, who was one of Sri Lanka's most influential players during the 1996 World Cup-winning campaign, said Sooryavanshi is a special prospect for Indian cricket.
The former Sri Lankan captain said opportunities would eventually come for the teenager and expressed confidence that he would make the most of them when selected. He also pointed out that Sooryavanshi's eventual batting position would depend on the circumstances and the team's requirements.
The comments come at a time when Sooryavanshi is competing with established international players for a place at the top of India's T20 batting order.
India Has Backed Samson and Abhishek
During the Afghanistan series, India opted for experience and continuity at the top of the order. Samson and Abhishek opened together in all three matches, while Sooryavanshi remained on the bench.
The decision came after Samson had returned to India's T20 setup and Abhishek continued to be an important part of the side. In the third T20I against Afghanistan, Abhishek produced a spectacular 108 from 34 balls, while Samson scored 50, helping India post 221 for seven before Afghanistan were bowled out for 94.
Jayasuriya said he would not comment on India's selection decisions or batting order but acknowledged the quality of the players currently competing for places.
He also highlighted the need for Samson and Abhishek to continue performing, given the level of competition within Indian cricket.
Tough Competition in Indian Cricket
According to Jayasuriya, India's depth is one of the major reasons the country continues to produce high-quality international cricketers. Players are constantly competing for places, while those outside the playing XI are also working hard to earn opportunities.
India's ability to field competitive teams across Tests, ODIs and T20Is was also praised by the Sri Lankan legend. He noted that playing all three formats requires a high level of skill, preparation and consistency.
The competition for places has become particularly intense in India's T20 setup, with several young batters pushing for opportunities alongside established names.
India head coach Gautam Gambhir has also recently spoken about patience in Sooryavanshi's case, saying the teenager's opportunity will come and that he will get a substantial run when the time is right.
“Sooryavanshi is different kind of talent, future for India.
— News Arena India (@NewsArenaIndia) September 20, 2026
He has a lot of time. So, give him the opportunity to do well and he will do well.
Opportunities will come. I can't tell which position he will play, it depends. But when the opportunity comes, he will grab them. So,… pic.twitter.com/onQ5z3IMwM
Sooryavanshi's International Journey Continues
Sooryavanshi's inclusion in India's Afghanistan squad came after his impressive performances in the preceding period, including a strong showing against Zimbabwe. The BCCI had included him in the 15-member squad for the Afghanistan T20Is, confirming his place among India's senior-team options.
Although he did not play against Afghanistan, his international journey is continuing. He has also been included in India's squad for the 2026 Asian Games, giving him another opportunity to gain experience at the international level.
Jayasuriya Highlights Corporate Cricket
Jayasuriya was speaking at the launch of the Corporate World Cup, an initiative he believes can provide opportunities to players who have not been able to reach the IPL, state or higher levels of competitive cricket.
He said corporate tournaments can give players an opportunity to showcase their abilities and demonstrate that they have the potential to compete at a higher level.
According to Jayasuriya, several talented cricketers across India may not get opportunities through the IPL or other established pathways. Corporate and club-level tournaments can therefore provide an additional platform for such players to gain exposure and experience.
For Sooryavanshi, meanwhile, Jayasuriya's message is clear: the talent has already attracted attention, but there is no need to hurry. With age on his side and opportunities expected to come, the teenager's next challenge will be to make the most of them when India eventually calls on him.
