Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s India debut ends in disappointment after promising start

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s much-awaited India debut may have ended with just 14 runs.

But the 15-year-old from Bihar offered enough glimpses of his extraordinary talent to suggest a bright future on the international stage.

Opening alongside Abhishek Sharma in the second T20I against England at Old Trafford on Saturday, Sooryavanshi scored 14 off nine balls, smashing two sixes in a fearless display before his innings was cut short.

At 15 years and 99 days, Sooryavanshi became India’s youngest-ever international cricketer, eclipsing Shafali Verma’s record. The left-hander received his maiden India cap from Tilak Varma after an emotional address by head coach Gautam Gambhir in the dressing room.

Facing a new-ball attack comprising Jofra Archer and fellow debutant Josh Tongue was a stern initiation. Tongue troubled the youngster with sharp bounce and pace, while Archer also kept him under pressure. After surviving the early examination, Sooryavanshi got off the mark with a thick edge before quickly settling into his natural attacking rhythm.

SOORYAVANSHI TAKES THE ATTACK TO ENGLAND

The teenager announced himself in style against Archer, shuffling across to scoop a 148kph delivery over fine leg for his first international six. The audacious stroke against one of the world’s fastest bowlers highlighted the confidence that has made him one of India’s most exciting young prospects.

He followed it up in the next over by rocking back to Josh Tongue and launching a full delivery over midwicket for another towering six, showcasing his bat speed and fearless intent as India made a brisk start.

JACKS ENDS THE CAMEO

The promising knock, however, was brought to an end by Will Jacks. After luring Sooryavanshi with a fuller delivery, Jacks bowled a slower, wider ball that tempted the youngster into charging down the track. Beaten by the change of pace, Sooryavanshi missed the ball completely, and Jos Buttler completed a smart stumping.

While the scoreboard shows only 14 runs, the innings was about much more than numbers. Taking on Archer and Tongue without hesitation, Sooryavanshi displayed the fearless approach and shot-making ability that earned him his India call-up. His debut ended sooner than he would have hoped, but it also provided an exciting glimpse of a teenager with the potential to become a key figure in India’s future.