'Sooryavanshi needs to be ready for bowlers' plans': Pathan
New Delhi, July 7
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the real test for teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi begins now, saying the 15-year-old must prepare for the tactical plans opposition bowlers will use against him following his eye-catching start to international cricket.
Speaking ahead of the third T20I against England, Pathan said Sooryavanshi's fearless approach should remain intact but stressed that adapting to opponents' strategies would be crucial for his continued success.
"He is a special talent, no doubt, but he needs to make sure he is ready for the plans bowlers will come up with against him," Pathan told Jio Hotstar. "Like in the first game, if you want to step out against the spinners in England, it's not a bad option since the ball doesn't turn that much there, but you need to maintain your balance and not move too far away from the ball," he added.
Sooryavanshi managed 14 off 10 balls in the second T20I before falling to spin, but Pathan backed the youngster's intent, saying he was pleased that the teenager did not abandon his natural attacking game.
"He will be disappointed that he got out for 14 after facing 10 balls, so even in terms of strike rate, he fell a bit short of the standards he has set for himself. But I liked that he didn't shy away from playing his natural game. A 15-year-old boy playing international cricket is not just the biggest takeaway for the Indian team from that game, but for world cricket. He is inspiring a whole new generation of young boys and girls by saying, 'If I can do it, you can do it too'," he said.
Pathan also reflected on India's defeat in the second T20I, believing the visitors left at least 20 runs on the table after a promising batting position before letting England wrest control in the chase.
"I thought India were 20 runs short because, from the position they were in, you would have expected them to score 210-220. Arshdeep, with those two early wickets, brought India back into the contest, but India needed to squeeze a bit more and bowl with greater discipline, especially at the death. Jacob Bethell was playing at a run-a-ball, but they allowed the game to slip away. Being 20 runs short with the bat and lacking discipline with the ball is where India lost the game," Pathan said.
Meanwhile, India will look to level the series when they face England in the third T20i on Tuesday.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Honestly, I'm just amazed that a 15-year-old is playing international cricket. That alone is a huge achievement for Indian cricket. But Pathan is right—bowlers will now study him. He needs a good mentor to handle the tactical side. Hope he stays grounded.
Pathan's analysis about India being 20 runs short is bang on. We can't afford such lapses in the death overs. Sooryavanshi is exciting, but the team has to back him. Also, Arshdeep's early wickets were great, but we messed up the chase. Bhai, thoda discipline chahiye! 😤
It's incredible to see such young talent emerge from India. Sooryavanshi is inspiring a generation. Pathan's advice is wise—balance is key, especially against English spinners. But let's not put too much pressure on the kid. He has a long career ahead. Well said, Irfan!
Pathan ki baat mein dum hai. Sooryavanshi needs to be 'mentally' ready. Bowlers will target his weakness. But I'm glad he didn't change his attacking style—that's what makes him special. India lost the second T20I due to poor death bowling. Let's hope they bounce back. #INDvENG
Pathan's comment about Sooryavanshi inspiring young boys and girls is so true. Imagine seeing a 15-year-old on the international stage—it gives hope to every child in India who dreams big. But yes, the tactical battle is real. Hope he works on
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.