Sehwag urges 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi to emulate Virat Kohli and aim for 20 years in IPL

The legendary cricketer Virender Sehwag insisted that the 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi should signify Virat Kohli and perform in the IPL for at least 20 years. The youngest cricketer made his debut for Rajasthan Royals (RR) against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), where he smashed his first ball for six off Shardul Thakur and registered a quick-fire of 34 runs off 20 balls.

The ex-Indian cricketer admitted that Suryavanshi needs to be subtle, like the right-handed batter Virat Kohli. Sehwag, an ace opener of his time, emphasised that the 14-year-old might feel happy after representing this IPL season. But, the Delhi-born cricketer confessed that the young-batter to play in the IPL for more time, likewise the RCB batter who played for all the seasons.

"Suryavanshi must aim to play 20 years in the IPL. Look at Virat Kohli, he started playing when he was 19 years old, now he has played all 18 seasons. That is what he should be trying to emulate. But, if he is happy with this IPL, thinking that he is now a millionaire, had a great debut, hit a six off the first ball, maybe we won't see him next year," said Sehwag via Cricbuzz.

Sehwag advises Suryavanshi to remain grounded

The youngest player in the IPL history was picked up by RR franchise for Rs. 1.1 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction. The veteran cricketer acknowledged the young batter to be grounded and not let money or fame get to the top of his head. 

"If you step out knowing that you will get praised for doing well and criticised for not doing well, you will remain grounded. I have seen many players who come, get fame from one or two matches, then they do not do anything, because they think that they have become a star player," he added.