‘Sachin’s career almost cut short’: Former cricketer’s chilling warning to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Sachin Tendulkar (Image Agency) As the excitement around Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to build, former South Africa batsman Daryll Cullinan has expressed concern about the physical demands placed on the 15-year-old prodigy, especially given his explosive batting style and increasing workload.Sooryavanshi quickly gained a reputation for his fearless approach and remarkable punching power. His ability to generate exceptional bat speed became one of the defining features of his game. But Cullinan believes such an aggressive method could eventually take a toll on the youngster’s body, especially as he continues to develop physically.“I’m in awe of the young man, but what worries me and no one talks about is the injuries? At 15, swinging the big bat, playing so much cricket, I’m worried about his wrists, elbows, smaller things and joints. What does the medical opinion say? Remember Sachin’s career was often cut short by a bad elbow.” LinkedIn after Sooryavanshi’s match-winning 94 runs in the final of the Tri-Nation series in Dambulla.Cullinan remains convinced that the stress generated by Sooryavanshi’s powerful swings could put considerable strain on his body over time.“I think he would be on a fairly strict routine. It’s because he’s still growing and so are his joints, ligaments, muscles I suppose? They’ll be straining I can assure you,” Cullinan wrote in response to one of the comments.The former Proteas batsman pointed to the example of Sachin Tendulkar, a player with whom Sooryavanshi is often compared. Tendulkar’s illustrious career was threatened by a serious tennis elbow injury in 2004, a problem he later described as one of the worst setbacks he faced despite numerous physical injuries during his 24-year international journey.Cullinan believes the modern game can present even greater challenges. With players using heavier bats and competing in a much busier cricket calendar than previous generations, he feels young cricketers face an increased risk of long-term wear and tear.“I know of a few good guys who have had chronic wrist problems. It’s just that we’ve been using lighter bats and playing a lot less cricket. He’s still growing, which is something to keep in mind. Today’s training and recovery methods will help, but I’m worried about his long-term future and health,” pointed out Cullinan, who has played 70 Tests and 138 ODIs for the Proteas.

Should there be stricter guidelines to manage the workload of young cricketers?