The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has explained why 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's parents have been permitted to travel with him during India's tour of Ireland and England in June and July.
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia clarified the matter, saying it is highly unusual for a 14 or 15-year-old player to be part of a national team at senior level. Saikia said India had found a rare talent in Sooryavanshi after many decades. He recalled that Sachin Tendulkar was among the few players to earn a place in the national side at such a young age.
He said several challenges could arise when a child of this age becomes part of a senior national squad. Saikia added that the decision was intended to help Sooryavanshi feel comfortable and adjust to the environment of senior players.
He said the board believed the arrangement would help reduce a number of issues related to the young cricketer and support his development within the team setup.
