Virat Kohli's coach Rajkumar Sharma hails Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as a 'special talent'

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (File Pic)

Rajkumar Sharma, the childhood coach of Indian star Virat Kohli, has lauded teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as an incredibly unique asset to T20 cricket, advising the youngster to remain true to his aggressive batting style.

The 15-year-old star enjoyed a breakout season in the IPL, finishing at the top of the run-scoring charts with 776 runs. Following a couple of explosive 90-plus scores for the Rajasthan Royals during the high-pressure playoffs, talks about his inclusion in the Indian team have taken pace.

"Well, he is an exceptional talent, undoubtedly. I mean, the way he has played in this IPL is remarkable. The way he has hit all the first-class, international and world-class bowlers, that is commendable, and I must say that he is a special talent. I really find Vaibhav very good." Sharma told PTI.

"The type of fearless cricket he plays and the way he has hit world-class bowlers is commendable. The way he has hit those sixes is just unbelievable. For T20 cricket, he is just brilliant," he added.

When questioned about what guidance he would offer the young batter, the veteran coach emphasised that the teenager should maintain his current trajectory.

"Since he is playing T20, I would say don't change anything. Just go and play like this, the way you are playing." Sharma added.

Virat was different from Sooryavanshi: Rajkumar Sharma

When asked to compare a 15-year-old Kohli to the current version of Sooryavanshi, Sharma refrained from making direct comparisons, highlighting Kohli's legendary 18-year record of top-tier consistency for India.

"I don't believe in comparing people. What Virat has done in the last 18 years, I mean, it's a very long period that he has been so consistent. But looking at Vaibhav, he looks very good, a very talented guy, and he has got a good temperament also, which he showed in the last game."

"Virat is a different player (from Sooryavanshi). He is a legend now. He is a great player, as he has proved by winning so many matches. No Indian has won as many matches for India as Virat has, and that is why he is loved so much. Here we see a rising star (Sooryavanshi), and we really love to see him grow."

(With PTI inputs)