Shastri Spots Four IPL Young Guns Destined for Glory

Former India coach Ravi Shastri has spotlighted four uncapped IPL youngsters poised to dominate international cricket. Speaking on "The ICC Review" with host Sanjana Ganesan, Shastri marveled at the fearless flair of Chennai Super Kings’ Ayush Mhatre, Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Suryavanshi, and Punjab Kings’ dynamic openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh. These teens, he believes, are ready to take the global stage by storm.  

Shastri was particularly impressed by 17-year-old Ayush Mhatre, who smashed 32 off 15 balls against Mumbai Indians, showcasing audacious strokeplay. “The shots he played—unbelievable for a 17-year-old against a star-studded attack,” Shastri said. “If nurtured well, he could go far.”  

Fourteen-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi also caught Shastri’s eye, blasting 34 off 20 against Lucknow Super Giants, including a six off his first IPL ball. “That first shot took everyone’s breath away,” Shastri noted, but cautioned, “He’s young, and failure is part of growth. Let him learn.”  

Punjab Kings’ openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh earned praise for their aggressive approach. Arya’s 254 runs at a strike rate of 201.58, including a century against CSK, underline his potential. “These kids see it, hit it in the first six overs,” Shastri enthused.  

However, Shastri warned that bowlers will target these youngsters with short-pitched deliveries. “Tonking the first ball for six invites no mercy,” he said. “They’ll need to adapt to survive.”  

Shastri also highlighted India’s deep white-ball talent pool, with stars like Shubman Gill shining in the Champions Trophy 2025. “The selectors have a headache, but back players when they’re hot,” he advised. With the IPL unearthing gems every season, India’s future looks dazzling.