Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi took the IPL by storm as he became the youngest-ever centurion in the league’s history on Monday (April 28).
The 14-year-old raced to his maiden IPL ton in just 35 balls, paving the way for RR’s eight-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the chase of 210. The southpaw eventually scored 101 off 38 deliveries before being dismissed by Prasidh Krishna.
Suryavanshi’s whirlwind knock was studded with seven boundaries and 11 sixes as his fireworks left the spectators at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in awe.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s brilliance also caught the attention of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batting coach Michael Hussey, who likened the young left-hander to Australian legend Adam Gilchrist, emphasizing his fearless approach against top bowlers.
“It was incredible, was it not? There are some of these players who come along and when they are batting in the middle, you do not want to miss a ball,” Hussey told reporters on the eve of the CSK versus PBKS clash at Chepauk.
“When Gilchrist walked out to bat, the whole Australian team would come to the viewing area to watch the game. Because they (such players) are just so exciting. I felt the same watching this young kid. Seeing him score a century off 30-odd balls was amazing to watch,” he added.
Punjab Kings' pace-bowling coach James Hopes hailed the fearlessness of the ‘Gen Z’ batters.
“It was hard to take my eyes off last night (Monday). These kids in general play a different game. They come up against the Kohlis and Dhonis of the world, but do not have any fear. Indian cricket is well placed, especially in the white-ball formats,” said Hopes.
Hussey was particularly impressed with Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s ability to go after the bowlers without dwelling on their reputation.
Vaibhav’s explosive innings came against bowlers with international experience as the GT attack featured Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Washington Sundar, Rashid Khan, and Karim Janat.
“Him and Yashasvi Jaiswal batting together was breathtaking. It is reckless at times, but it is so exciting to watch. To be able to play like that, against some of the best bowlers, it just blows your mind,” said Hussey,
“His life and world have changed forever now. He is going to be on such a high probably for weeks or months. He will need good people around him to guide him. He is very lucky to have Rahul Dravid (RR head coach) and some good senior players.”
Hopes mentioned that Indian cricket has turned into a talent factory because of the “exposure” it provides to the youth.
“We do have such talent in Australia, but they do not get exposed at a young age like they do here. We do not have as many teams. We have only six domestic teams and eight Big Bash League teams,” Hopes remarked.
(With TOI Inputs)
