Swann warns England bowlers of Sooryavanshi challenge, says 'it's hard to prepare for a player like him'
New Delhi, June 30
Former England spinner Graeme Swann believes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi presents one of the toughest assignments for England's bowling attack ahead of India's T20I series, saying the teenage batter has so far found answers against every challenge put before him.
Speaking ahead of the series in England, Swann suggested that while most bowlers are still searching for a way to contain the youngster, Jofra Archer could hold a slight advantage because of his familiarity with Sooryavanshi from the IPL. He admitted that preparing for a batter with limited international exposure but extensive franchise experience is far from straightforward.
"It's hard to prepare for a player like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. He is still new to international cricket, but he has already played two IPL seasons. That means there is video footage available. Some of the England bowlers may have bowled to him in the IPL," Swann told JioStar.
Even with that information at their disposal, Swann feels England have little evidence to suggest there is a clear blueprint for dismissing the young left-hander.
"But the truth is, no one has really had much success against him so far. He has looked almost unplayable," he added.
Among England's pace options, however, Swann identified Archer as the bowler best placed to test Sooryavanshi, citing the fast bowler's first-hand knowledge of the teenager's game.
"The one bowler who might have a slight advantage is Jofra Archer. He has seen Sooryavanshi from the dugout, bowled to him in the nets, and watched him closely. He has probably seen more of him than anyone else," Swann opined.
Swann believes that familiarity could help Archer uncover a method to challenge the youngster, particularly given his ability to combine insight with genuine pace. "Maybe he has spotted a weakness. Maybe he has a plan. And he has the express pace to back it up."
At the same time, the former off-spinner stressed that Sooryavanshi's record against top-class bowling leaves England with no guarantees.
"But so far, no matter who has bowled to Sooryavanshi, no matter how highly rated the bowler, he has always had an answer," he said.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Respect to Swann for giving honest assessment. But ji, let's not get carried away. Yes, Sooryavanshi has IPL pedigree but international cricket is different. England's bowlers especially in home conditions can be lethal. Mark Wood and Jofra with raw pace, it won't be easy for any youngster. Let the bat do the talking first! 😅
The way Sooryavanshi backed away and smashed Bumrah over covers in the IPL last season - that shot is still fresh in my mind. Swann is right, he has answers. But English pitches are not UAE or Indian tracks. A bit of seam movement early on and even the best can look ordinary. This series will be the real litmus test for him. Accha player hai, but abhi toh dekhna padega! 🇮🇳
As an England fan, I'm actually worried. This kid looks like the real deal - his range of strokes and temperament under pressure are phenomenal. Archer knowing him from the IPL could help, but Swann is honest in saying no one has really cracked the code yet. India have unearthed a gem. Game on! 🏴🇮🇳
Swann's no-nonsense analysis is refreshing. He could have easily hyped up England bowlers but instead gave credit where it's due. That said, I hope our management doesn't put too much pressure on Sooryavanshi. He is young and needs time to adjust. Even Sachin didn't conquer England in his first tour. Let him play freely without expectations! ❤️
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