Test cricket has been battling a gradual decline in popularity as the explosive rise of T20 leagues continues to reshape the global game. The growing calendar of franchise tournaments has shifted attention away from the traditional five-day format, while the recent Test retirements of modern icons such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Kane Williamson have further reduced fan engagement. As discussions continue over who can inspire a new generation to embrace red-ball cricket, former India captain Kris Srikkanth believes the answer may already be emerging in the form of a teenage prodigy of India.
Kris Srikkanth picks a young star who can revive Test cricket
Speaking to PTI, Srikkanth picked India’s young sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi and expressed unwavering confidence that Suryavanshi possesses the qualities needed not only to succeed across formats but also to help restore the appeal of Test cricket.
The former opener praised the youngster’s fearless mindset and hunger for big scores, suggesting that his attacking instincts are balanced by the patience required for longer innings.
“What I like about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is he has an appetite to score runs and an appetite to dominate. At the same time, he could stay there and play also. If he progresses beyond T20 cricket to one-day cricket, and then to Test cricket, and if he clicks in Test cricket, which he will, I am sure then you will see a revival of Test cricket,” Srikkanth said.
He also highlighted the excitement Suryavanshi generates among viewers, comparing his growing popularity to the magnetic pull once enjoyed by cricket’s biggest superstars.
“You need that kind of cricketer today. People switch on the TV just to watch Sooryavanshi. I switch on the TV to watch Sooryavanshi. That is the aura he has created around himself. And he is something amazing,” the former India opener added.
Srikkanth’s remarks underline his belief that captivating personalities and entertaining batting styles could play a major role in attracting audiences back to the traditional format.
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High expectations surround the teenage sensation
Suryavanshi’s rapid rise has made him one of the most talked-about young talents in Indian cricket. Despite his age, he has already earned recognition for his fearless batting approach and ability to dominate bowling attacks without compromising on technique.
The youngster has been selected for India’s upcoming T20I tours of Ireland and England, a significant milestone that reflects the faith selectors have placed in his potential. Strong performances in those assignments could accelerate his journey toward ODI and eventually Test cricket.
While many young players establish themselves in white-ball formats first, Srikkanth believes Suryavanshi has the temperament to excel in the longer version as well. His confidence in the teenager suggests that he sees a player capable of entertaining crowds while also building substantial innings under pressure.
