Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the 14-year-old sensation who took the IPL 2025 by storm with his record-breaking century, is now under the watchful eye of coaches and family as he navigates the challenges that come with sudden fame. Following his explosive performance for the Rajasthan Royals, where he became the youngest and fastest Indian to score a century in the IPL, Suryavanshi has reportedly "gained a lot of weight," prompting concerns about his fitness and long-term performance.

Suryavanshi's father, Sanjeev, has acknowledged the weight gain and expressed his expectation that his son will shed the extra pounds. This development comes as Rahul Dravid, the head coach of Rajasthan Royals, has reportedly promised Suryavanshi a call-up to the Indian national team, contingent on him maintaining his fitness.

Before his IPL success, Suryavanshi maintained a strict diet and fitness regime. His coach, Manish Ojha, revealed that the young cricketer had eliminated his favorite foods, pizza and mutton, to keep his weight in check. This discipline allowed him to focus on explosive strength, agility, and core strength, which were evident in his record-breaking performance. According to fitness experts, cricketers need top-notch fitness levels, achieved through strength training, cardio, and a protein-rich diet.

The pressure on young athletes to maintain peak physical condition is immense, especially with the increased attention and opportunities that come with success. Rahul Dravid, known for his mentorship of young players, is keenly aware of these challenges. He has cautioned against excessive hype and emphasized the importance of providing Suryavanshi with a strong support system to help him navigate the pressures of fame and maintain his focus on development.

Greg Chappell, former India coach, has also weighed in, urging the BCCI to protect and nurture Suryavanshi. Chappell highlighted the risks of overhyping young cricketers, pointing to examples of talents who struggled to fulfill their potential under intense public scrutiny. He advocated for licensed child psychologists to be part of elite youth programs, providing specialized care for the emotional volatility of adolescence.

The focus now shifts to ensuring that Suryavanshi receives the guidance and support necessary to manage his weight, maintain his fitness, and continue his development as a cricketer. This includes a balanced approach to training, diet, and mental well-being, as well as protection from the distractions and pressures that can derail young careers. Dravid's promise of a future India call-up serves as motivation for the young player, reinforcing the importance of discipline and hard work.