Test cricket needs next-gen all-format heroes like Sooryavanshi: Dravid

Former India captain Rahul Dravid has called for a balanced approach to the development of 15-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, stressing that nurturing young talent across all formats is crucial for the future growth of Test cricket.

Importance of Red-Ball Focus: Speaking at an event in Dublin, Dravid highlighted that while IPL exposure with Rajasthan Royals provides great white-ball experience, Sooryavanshi must be given time to build his red-ball career in Indian domestic cricket if Test cricket is to thrive.

Patience and Growth: Dravid urged fans and selectors to be patient with the teenager, noting that he will inevitably face ups and downs as he develops his skills. Sooryavanshi has played eight first-class games so far, averaging 17.25.

Upcoming Opportunities: Sooryavanshi's red-ball focus will be tested in the upcoming Duleep Trophy with East Zone, which could be followed by potential selection for India A's upcoming series against Australia A in September.

"I think he's going to have some success but he also might have periods where it probably doesn't work out well for him," Dravid cautioned. "But let's all remember he's only 15 and he has a long way to go. So Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, by not playing in T20 competitions all over the world, is actually playing in the red-ball Indian domestic competition. He's growing, he's getting better at red-ball skills.

"Hopefully someday if he does well and performs well like he has in white-ball cricket, he might become a red-ball player for India. And how exciting that would be for the world game as well."