“‘We will judge him at 20-22’…”: Kapil Dev’s bold warning on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after record-breaking rise shocks fans

Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev has delivered a powerful and balanced assessment of teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, praising his extraordinary talent while also setting a clear long-term challenge for the youngster.

Sooryavanshi, just 15 years old, has already become one of the most talked-about names in world cricket, drawing comparisons with legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar, who also made his international debut as a teenager and went on to redefine the sport.

“Special talent… but the real test is later”

Speaking to The Indian Express, Kapil Dev did not hold back in acknowledging the youngster’s brilliance—but also urged patience in judging him too early.

ALSO READ : Ben Stokes Returns, Four Players Axed! England Reveal Surprise Playing XI for Series-Deciding 3rd Test Against New Zealand

“Vaibhav is too young. But yes, he is a special talent and full stop. He is a 16-year-old kid and everything he has is only cricket,” Kapil said.

He further added a long-term perspective that has now sparked discussion across cricket circles:
“Once he reaches 20-22, we will judge him. He is like Sachin at the age of 16, but can he play that long? He has a long way to go.”

A rise that has stunned world cricket

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s journey so far has been nothing short of sensational. The youngster first grabbed global attention with a stunning 175 in the Under-19 World Cup final, playing a crucial role in India’s title win.

But he didn’t stop there.

In the IPL season, he delivered a record-breaking performance, finishing with 776 runs and winning the Orange Cap, becoming the youngest player ever to achieve the feat. His fearless batting also saw him break Chris Gayle’s record for most sixes in a single IPL edition.

Early comparisons, bigger expectations

With such explosive numbers at such a young age, comparisons with legends were inevitable. Like Tendulkar, Sooryavanshi has entered the spotlight early—but cricket experts often warn that longevity, not just early success, defines greatness.

Kapil Dev’s comments reflect that very mindset: admiration for talent, but caution against premature judgment.

The road ahead

As Indian cricket celebrates the emergence of another prodigy, Kapil’s message stands out as a reminder that the toughest phase is not breakthrough success—but consistency over years.

For Sooryavanshi, the spotlight is already bright. The real challenge, as Kapil Dev suggests, begins when the hype fades and the grind of international cricket truly sets in.