Rahul Dravid Urges Young Talent Like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to Embrace Multi-Format Development for Test Cricket

Rahul Dravid emphasized that emerging talents such as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi must acquire competence in every format to safeguard the future vitality of Test cricket. Sooryavanshi, born on March 27, 2011, is now 15 and has already made a notable impression in white‑ball cricket, highlighted by being named Most Valuable Player in the 2026 IPL season and amassing 776 runs for the Rajasthan Royals.

Having served as head coach of the Rajasthan Royals when they recruited Sooryavanshi prior to the 2025 IPL season, Dravid discussed the importance of a balanced development approach for the promising batsman. The former Indian coach repeatedly stresses the value of cultivating multi‑format ability rather than forcing youngsters into a sole T20 specialization.

“Balancing formats remains essential,” Dravid remarked to Cricinfo. “It is encouraging that Vaibhav is gaining white‑ball exposure through the IPL in India while also having the opportunity to return to domestic red‑ball cricket and develop his red‑ball career.”

Multi‑Format Development Crucial for Sooryavanshi’s Progress

The former India coach argued that the survival and expansion of Test cricket hinge on athletes who can thrive in multiple formats. Dravid underscored the pivotal role of players like Sooryavanshi, whose proficiency in both white‑ball and red‑ball cricket fortifies the sport’s foundation.

“We all want Test cricket to endure and flourish, and we need players like him to be capable of competing in every format of the game,” Dravid said.

While Sooryavanshi’s red‑ball experience currently lags behind his white‑ball background, Dravid expressed confidence in his developmental trajectory. The player made his first‑class debut in January 2024 and has been simultaneously honing his domestic red‑ball skills alongside his IPL commitments.

“The positive aspect is that he will require time and experience, and will have ample opportunities to play red‑ball cricket. At present, his red‑ball exposure is less extensive than his white‑ball participation,” Dravid said.

Patience and Realistic Expectations for a 15‑Year‑Old Talent

Dravid highlighted the necessity of patience with young prospects, especially given Sooryavanshi’s age and the swift achievements he has realized in white‑ball cricket. He cautioned against imposing undue expectations on a player still early in his career who has demonstrated considerable maturity.

“He is only 15, and we must afford him time and patience. While he has already achieved early success, he will inevitably encounter highs and lows, and I believe patience will be required,” Dravid said.

Dravid outlined a pragmatic roadmap for Sooryavanshi’s future, balancing optimism about his prospects with realism about forthcoming challenges. He noted that the player’s choice to concentrate on red‑ball cricket within the Indian domestic system — rather than chasing global T20 leagues — positions him favorably for potential future Test selection.

“I anticipate he will experience success as well as periods where things may not go smoothly. Remember, he is still only 15 and has a long journey ahead. Notably, by opting out of worldwide T20 competitions, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is presently engaged in Indian domestic red‑ball cricket,” Dravid said.

“He is progressing and honing his red‑ball skills. Should he continue to excel — mirroring his white‑ball performances — there is a realistic possibility he could earn a place in India’s Test side, which would be an exciting development for the global game,” he added.

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