A 19-year-old Virat Kohli seemed to make his debut for India just yesterday. In 2008, Sachin Tendulkar still had five years left in his career with the Indian cricket team. The Master Blaster had more cricket behind him than in front of him, but of course no one was aware of that. Tendulkar, the standard-bearer of Indian cricket, was forced to ride into the sunset. And everyone knew that they wouldn't get another one like him when the moment arrived. But about three years after Tendulkar's retirement, Kohli rose to the occasion and elevated his play to a level that many believed even the legendary Tendulkar had not reached. The year 2016 was the turning point for Kohli, as he began to cement his greatness. Just as 1998 was to Tendulkar, Kohli had a record-breaking year, shattering one mark after another, and he only improved over time. Kohli accomplished something in 2023 that seemed impossible five years prior. Beat Tendulkar's record for the most ODI centuries.

However, in 2025, Kohli has abandoned two of the three forms and has little time left. India is looking for its next cricket legend. The BCCI holds the opinion that Shubman Gill is the solution. But truthfully, though. Gill's record at the age of 25 is significantly less impressive than that of Tendulkar and Kohli. Shreyas Iyer's spot in India's Test squad is uncertain, and Prithvi Shaw is no longer in consideration.

Who might it be, then?

According to former England pacer Ryan Sidebottom, Vaibhav Suryavanshi is the answer to that query. Yes, the 14-year-old genius who just lit up the IPL 2025 with a record-breaking century for the Rajasthan Royals against the Punjab Kings. Over 500 calls were missed as the adolescent became an overnight sensation and the toast of the country. Comparing Suryavanshi's spectacular debut on the big stage to the debuts of legendary cricket figures from earlier generations, Sidebottom played several matches against India during his career.

"Isn't it fantastic? I believe India because cricket is everything to them. It's crazy when you go over there. Everything is fair. Over here in England, they resemble your Premier League players. Everyone is aware of their actions, whereabouts, activities, and gaming endeavors. They are true legends in the sport of cricket. Who is next, then, after your Tendulkars have retired and your Kohlis have given up? This kid, who is 14 and has taken the world by storm. He's almost another Sachin Tendulkar. Speaking solely to BoyleSports, he said, "They've already discovered this total treasure."

The adolescent has captivated people's minds in a way that few others have

Viewers all over the cricket community were taken aback by Suryavanshi's calm and commanding display, and seasoned veterans like Sidebottom, who warned against it, couldn't help but be impressed by the young player's skill.

"The thing is not to get too carried away, but wow, the way he hit the ball in the IPL was truly unreal, like he had burst onto the scene like that." As a matter of fact, this 14-year-old doesn't seem 14 at all when they claim he's playing. He already appears to be a man," Sidebottom said.

"He's so mature, and he's a rather large chap. But, I mean, the manner he played and the way he struck the ball were just amazing. As soon as he walked in, he hit a six. I still recall my debut game. I was so anxious. It was terrible. He was like a fish in the water. He really loved the big event and flourished. Therefore, kudos to him. It's wonderful that India is bringing up these young people once again.

Read Also: Kohli Crumbles in Joy as RCB Ends 18-Year IPL Title Chase

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