Indian cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is poised to make his international debut for India in two upcoming matches against Ireland in Belfast. A global television audience exceeding one billion is expected to watch the highly anticipated series, which will also feature the ceremonial ringing of the Roy Torrens Bell to mark the start of play.
Modireddy Venkateshwar Rao, widely known as Bobby or Bobjee, a former Test cricketer for India who later became a significant figure in Irish cricket, has been given the honor of ringing the bell. Rao, who played for both nations, moved to Ireland in 1980 and has since been instrumental in coaching numerous young Irish cricketers, including Boyd Rankin, William Porterfield, and Andy McBrine, as well as prominent Irish internationals like Ed Joyce, Eoin Morgan, and Niall O’Brien. His contributions were recognized with an MBE in 2011 and an elevation to the Board of Cricket Ireland this year.
Bobjee expressed his excitement about the upcoming matches and Sooryavanshi's debut. "It will be a very memorable day for everyone there, amazing that a player like Sooryavanshi will be making his debut here. Such a talent," Rao stated. He noted that Sooryavanshi, a young player he watches frequently on television, reminds him of West Indies legend Garry Sobers due to his backswing and quick ability to read the ball. Rao highlighted Sooryavanshi's adaptability, citing his performance of 96 runs off 47 balls in the IPL despite facing targeted short balls. "He's clearly very intelligent, he looks to have everything," Rao added.
However, Rao cautioned that Sooryavanshi's skills will be put to the test by Ireland's conditions. "The one test he has yet to face is the moving ball in conditions here. That will be a test," he remarked. Rao himself experienced the intense adoration for star players in India during his own Test career in 1978-79, playing in front of massive crowds in Kolkata. He contrasted this with his early playing days in Strabane, Ireland, where crowds were significantly smaller.
Since settling in Ireland with his local wife, Josephine, Rao has been involved in various community initiatives, including founding the Strabane Ethnic Communities Association to address discrimination faced by newcomers. He also played a role in developing Irish cricket, working for Herdman’s Mill and running the Sion Mills Recreation Club, which allowed him to continue his coaching career with Ireland. He expressed disappointment at being overlooked for the Head Coach position after Mike Hendrick. Former Ireland wicket-keeper Niall O’Brien recalled Rao's impactful coaching during the 2000 U19 World Cup, describing his energy, spirit, and effective googly. Rao, along with journalist Conor Sharkey, co-authored a book titled 'Bobby: India and Ireland… a Love Story' in 2020, detailing his life's journey.
Rao continues to be an active voice in Irish cricket, now serving on the Board of Cricket Ireland. He remains passionate about improving the sport and stressed the importance of developing players who can transition to top leagues, recalling how he and others encouraged players like Ed Joyce, Eoin Morgan, and William Porterfield to join English counties, which propelled their careers.