Former India cricketer Kedar Jadhav has urged fans and experts not to compare teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi with legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar, saying the young Rajasthan Royals star should be allowed to grow without the burden of unrealistic expectations.
Speaking to Olympics.com, Jadhav said that while Sooryavanshi’s performances have been extraordinary, no player should be labelled as the “next Sachin Tendulkar.”
“Nobody can compare or even say that someone is another Sachin Tendulkar in the making,” Jadhav said.
“Tendulkar is a master in himself and nobody can even come close to what he has contributed to the game of cricket.”
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Enjoying Breakthrough IPL 2026 Season
The 15-year-old batting prodigy has emerged as one of the biggest stories of Indian Premier League 2026 after delivering fearless performances for Rajasthan Royals.
Sooryavanshi is currently RR’s highest run-scorer this season and the fifth-highest overall in the tournament. In 10 innings, he has scored 404 runs at an average of 40.40 and an explosive strike rate of 237.64, including one century and two fifties.
The teenager has impressed fans with his fearless approach against some of the world’s top bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah and Josh Hazlewood.
His rapid rise has already sparked discussions about a possible India T20I call-up, with reports suggesting selectors are monitoring him closely.
“Legends Are Not Just About Numbers”
While praising Sooryavanshi’s immense talent, Jadhav stressed that comparisons with Tendulkar are unfair because legends are defined by much more than statistics.
“Legends are not just about numbers or records. They are about what they have done for the game over a long period of time,” he said.
“They have carried the sport, inspired millions and created a legacy that stands on its own.”
Jadhav highlighted Tendulkar’s unmatched longevity and ability to perform under pressure for over two decades.
“It is not just about scoring runs. It is about handling pressure, expectations, and still delivering every single time.”
Kedar Jadhav Warns Against Putting Pressure On Young Players
The former India all-rounder also warned that premature comparisons can place enormous pressure on young cricketers at a crucial stage of their development.
“Let him play, let him grow. Every player has their own journey.”
“If you start comparing too early, you are putting unnecessary pressure on that player.”
Jadhav explained that once a youngster is compared to an icon like Tendulkar, every innings gets judged through unrealistic expectations.
“People start expecting greatness every time he walks out to bat, and that is not how development works.”
Advice For Sooryavanshi: Stay Away From Social Media
Jadhav also offered practical advice to the young star, urging him to stay focused on cricket and avoid unnecessary distractions from social media.
“The focus should be on cricket, on improving his game, and on learning every day.”
“Social media can create unnecessary noise. Praise and criticism both come very quickly, and it can affect a young player’s mindset if he is not careful.”
“Do Not Look For The Next Tendulkar”
Jadhav concluded by saying fans should celebrate the fearless cricket played by the new generation without trying to recreate past legends.
“There is only one Tendulkar. You cannot recreate that.”
“Do not look for the next Tendulkar. Look at what the current players can become. That is how the game will move forward.”