Here’s a bold statement: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s father believes his son isn’t a ‘big cricketer’—yet. But here’s where it gets controversial: Sanjeev Sooryavanshi insists that until Vaibhav plays Test cricket, he won’t earn that title. This declaration comes fresh off Vaibhav’s jaw-dropping performance in the U-19 World Cup final, where he single-handedly dismantled England with a blistering knock of 15 sixes and 15 fours at a strike rate of 218.75. India clinched the title for a record sixth time, and Vaibhav’s innings became the stuff of legend—the highest score in an Under-19 World Cup final, surpassing Unmukt Chand’s 111 in 2012. Yet, for Sanjeev, this is just the beginning. And this is the part most people miss: Vaibhav’s father isn’t just setting high expectations; he’s grounding his son in humility and the pursuit of Test cricket, the ultimate benchmark of cricketing greatness.
Vaibhav’s journey is deeply rooted in Bihar, a state often stereotyped but now celebrated through his success. After his historic innings, Vaibhav called his father, not with a standard 'pranam,' but with a distinct Bihari 'parnaam,' a small yet powerful reminder of his roots. Sanjeev, overwhelmed with emotion, kept the call brief, urging his son to savor the moment. But here’s the kicker: While the world was hailing Vaibhav as a prodigy, his father was already looking ahead, emphasizing that true greatness lies in mastering the longest format of the game.
Vaibhav’s rise has sparked a sporting revolution in Bihar, where cricket was once overshadowed by academic pressures. His coach, Manish Ojha, is now flooded with requests from parents dreaming of turning their toddlers into the next Vaibhav. And this is where it gets thought-provoking: Ojha quotes a local proverb, 'Padhoge likhoge banoge nawaab, kheloge kudoge banoge kharaab' (Study and you’ll become a nobleman; play and you’ll be ruined), highlighting the cultural shift Vaibhav is inspiring. But is Bihar ready to fully embrace sports over academics? That’s a debate for another day.
Vaibhav’s playing style is as bold as his father’s expectations. Ojha describes him as a player who doesn’t settle for singles or doubles—he’s all about domination. This mindset was on full display in Harare, where he scored 151 runs off just 56 balls, leaving England’s bowlers clueless. His tournament tally of 439 runs at an average of 62.71 placed him second only to Mayes. Yet, despite these staggering numbers, Sanjeev remains steadfast: Test cricket is the ultimate goal.
Here’s a counterpoint to consider: Is Test cricket the only measure of a cricketer’s greatness? While it’s traditionally seen as the pinnacle, the modern game has evolved, with T20s and ODIs offering their own challenges and rewards. Vaibhav has already made waves in the IPL, becoming the youngest centurion in men’s T20s with a 35-ball hundred for Rajasthan Royals. Shouldn’t such achievements also earn him the ‘big cricketer’ tag? We’ll leave that for you to debate in the comments.
Vaibhav’s slow start in the tournament—scores of 72, 40, 52, and 30—showed glimpses of his potential but lacked the big finish. It wasn’t until the semi-final against Afghanistan, where he scored a quickfire 68, that he found his rhythm. His father’s advice? Stay humble, keep learning, and let your bat do the talking. Sanjeev even drew parallels with Sachin Tendulkar, whose humility and consistency made him a global icon. But here’s the question: Can Vaibhav replicate Tendulkar’s longevity and impact across all formats?
As Vaibhav looks ahead, his coach Manish Ojha believes the Ranji Trophy will be his next big test. With Bihar in the Elite Group this year, Vaibhav has the perfect platform to prove himself with the red ball. And this is where it gets exciting: If he dominates domestic cricket, the national team could be his next stop. But will he become India’s youngest international cricketer? That remains to be seen.
Final thought-provoking question: Does Vaibhav Sooryavanshi have what it takes to redefine cricketing greatness, or will he be defined by the traditional benchmarks set by his father and the cricketing world? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
