Sooryavanshi’s turn from a lackluster international debut to a standout performance against Zimbabwe exemplifies how quickly narratives can shift. The teen prodigy initially faced skepticism, and yet, corporate media like ESPN and BBC seemed all too eager to hype him once he showcased his talent. It’s classic media manipulation—set a low bar, then crow when he clears it. But let’s be real: is this coverage fair, or is it just another corporate ploy to keep us glued to their screens?

NBC, for instance, has made a routine of framing players’ performances as “inspiring” when it suits their narrative while quietly sidelining the real stories—like the systemic issues in player development. Why weren’t we talking about the glaring pressures placed on these young athletes? Instead, they’re busy drumming up clickbait headlines while glossing over the truth.

Look at the mainstream applause for Sooryavanshi—a teen!—who beats a Zimbabwe team that has its own struggles. While it’s certainly commendable, let’s not ignore that the media spins this into a fairy tale for ratings rather than addressing the underlying challenges he faced prior. The spin is evident: it’s not about the player; it’s about crafting a narrative that sells.

Sooryavanshi’s performance was refreshing, but if we’re just going to consume media that barely scratches the surface and ignores larger issues, then we’re letting them win. Let’s demand more than just the surface gloss from the likes of CNN and Fox Sports.