T20 World Cup: Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara believes teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi should not allow the growing attention around him to become a distraction as he awaits a possible opportunity in India's upcoming T20I series against England.
Speaking ahead of the tour, Pujara said the youngster is unlikely to feature immediately given the stability of India's current top order, while stressing that preparation and patience will be crucial to his long-term success.
Pujara first advised Sooryavanshi to stay grounded despite the widespread excitement surrounding his emergence.
“There is a lot of hype around Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. As a young player, he shouldn't pay attention to what is being said about him. He needs to block out the outside noise and focus on his game,” Pujara told JioStar.
While backing the youngster's mindset, Pujara explained that earning a place in the playing XI depends on more than just talent, especially with India's batting lineup already settled.
“But even if he is mentally ready, selection is a different matter. I don't think he will get a chance straight away in the England series because India wouldn't want to change their top three. Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, and Ishan Kishan are quality batters who have helped India win the T20 World Cup. So, Vaibhav may have to wait for the first three games,” he added.
Pujara also outlined the approach he believes Sooryavanshi should adopt whenever his opportunity eventually arrives.
“If the opportunity arrives, the key for him will be to stay relaxed and calm. He shouldn't put pressure on himself to score big runs. He should just go out and express himself,” he said.
The veteran batter cautioned that conditions in England will pose a fresh challenge, making thorough preparation essential before expecting the same level of success he enjoyed in franchise cricket.
“If the opportunity arrives, the key for him will be to stay relaxed and calm. He shouldn't put pressure on himself to score big runs. He should just go out and express himself,” he said.
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India begin their T20I series in England with a settled batting unit, meaning Sooryavanshi may have to bide his time before receiving his first opportunity at the international level.