Vaibhav Suryavanshi not a 'big cricketer' yet despite U19 heroics! Father explains why

Vaibhav Suryavanshi's father makes a big statement [Source: @sachin_rt, @ANI/X.com]

India’s U19 World Cup triumph has created a new star in Vaibhav Suryavanshi. His record-breaking knock in the final against England put him firmly in the spotlight.

Yet, amidst the accolades and the front-page publicity, his father has sent a message of substance and power.

For the Suryavanshi family, success is not defined by age-group glory alone. The focus remains on long-term growth and the ultimate format of the game.

Father sets the bar high for Vaibhav Suryavanshi

Vaibhav Suryavanshi's father, Sanjeev, has made his expectations clear. Speaking after his son’s U19 World Cup heroics, he said this was only the beginning.

He stressed that he would not consider Vaibhav a “big cricketer” until he plays Test cricket for India. According to him, real success lies in longevity and discipline, not early fame.

“Abhi toh shuruaat hai, abhi bahut aage jaana hai. Jab tak Test na khele, kya bada cricketer," Sanjeev told TOI.

He also spoke emotionally about the final. When India lost an early wicket, Vaibhav Suryavanshi took responsibility. He rebuilt the innings with captain Ayush Mhatre.

Their 142-run stand changed the game. Watching this unfold, Sanjeev Suryavanshi said he could not stop his tears. He chose not to speak much to his son that night. He wanted him to enjoy the moment with his teammates.

“When Vaibhav called, I couldn’t hold my tears back. He was jumping in joy with the other boys. I told him that I would talk to him later because it’s a memorable moment. After this, he won’t get to play in the under-19s. He should enjoy the moment," he added.

A historic final and a dream tournament

Vaibhav Suryavanshi produced one of the greatest knocks in U19 World Cup history. In the final against England, the left-hander smashed 175 off just 80 balls. He hit 15 fours and 15 sixes with a strike rate of 200.

India posted a massive total and went on to win their sixth U19 World Cup title. Vaibhav was named Player of the Match and Player of the Tournament.

Across the competition, he scored 439 runs in seven matches. Vaibhav Suryavanshi averaged over 62 and scored one century and three half-centuries. The kid also chipped in with a wicket.

At just 14 years old, his achievements stunned the cricketing world. Many called him a once-in-a-generation talent. Comparisons with past U-19 greats quickly followed.

Why Vaibhav Suryavanshi won’t play another U19 World Cup?

Vaibhav Suryavanshi won't appear in another U19 World Cup despite being age-eligible for future editions. The reason lies in a BCCI policy decision made in 2026.

According to the new rule, now a player can play in only two U19 seasons. Once a player represents India in one U19 World Cup, they cannot play another. This rule aims to prevent age manipulation and protect junior cricket.

Former India coach Rahul Dravid had strongly spoken against age-fudging in the past. He called it dangerous and harmful. His views influenced long-term reforms in junior cricket.

As a result, Vaibhav’s U-19 journey ends here. His next challenge lies in domestic cricket and, eventually, the senior India setup. As his father believes, the real test is still ahead.