New Delhi: Former Indian fast bowler S. Srisanth Teenage batting sensation Vibhu Suryavanshi has been urged to focus on cricket and avoid the distraction of professional managers after his rapid rise to fame.The 15-year-old prodigy recently earned a place in India’s squad for the tours of Ireland and England, becoming the youngest player ever to be selected for the Indian men’s team. In doing so, he eclipsed the 36-year-old record held by legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar, who made his debut for India at the age of 16 against Pakistan in 1989.Talking about the success of the youth, Sreesanth Appreciated Suryavanshi’s determination, discipline and the sacrifices of her family.“Man, no matter how little we say about Suryavanshi…it won’t be enough. I mean, no matter how much we praise him, it will still be less.”“So I would say Suryavanshi’s family… and young kids who are watching and thinking ‘I want to be like him’ – you can have it because he has shown the way. First Sachin Paaji showed us, then Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma came along. But what I will say is what Vibhu has shown, Vibhu is an example of Suryavanshi, and he is an example of commitment.The former fast bowler recalled watching Suryavanshi’s tireless training videos during the Covid-19 pandemic and highlighted the role of his father and coaches in shaping his journey.“Even in the time of Corona, they were showing videos of him practicing on the roof. His father, the man, a lot of respect for him. Respect for all his coaches, respect for everyone because… as you know, I’m from Kerala. And when people talk about ‘opportunities, opportunities’ – even in cricket, that’s all we talk about, getting opportunities.”“But traveling for four hours without a guaranteed opportunity, practicing, staying, going back every single day … and that too playing 750 to 1,000 balls a day, practicing … and he still says, ‘When I get a rest, I don’t feel good.’ I will learn from it. I… respect to all legendary cricketers, respect to all, but what this kid has shown… just let him be, man. Leave it as it is. A lot of managers will come around now.“Sreesanth then issued a word of caution, advising the youngster to stay on the field and let his family take care of matters off the field.“Vaibhu, if you are seeing this, I request you to leave these managers aside and focus on yourself. Your father will take care of things, and your family members will take care of things. Stay away from these professional managers.”
Do you think young athletes should focus more on training rather than managing their public image?
