Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi turned heads with his performance in the third T20I against Zimbabwe. Interim head coach VVS Laxman praised his maturity,saying Sooryavanshi's learning ability sets him up for a bright future in international cricket.
Sooryavanshi was key to India's 3-0 series win,smashing 81 off 49 balls on a tough pitch at the Harare Sports Club. His innings helped India post strong 192/5. Laxman admired his approach despite tough conditions. "What you saw was a mature innings because it was a difficult wicket," he said, noting Sooryavanshi's adaptability against Zimbabwe's bowlers.
Named Player of the Series,Sooryavanshi's performance wasn't a one-off. Laxman mentioned his strong 2025 IPL season with the Rajasthan Royals as a sign of things to come. "It was on expected lines," Laxman said, adding that IPL pressure matches international games . "At 14 or 15,playing IPL,you can either be overwhelmed or embrace the pressure. He's done latter."
Though disappointed not to hit his first international century, Laxman reassured Sooryavanshi about his future. "He was disappointed not to get a hundred. But we told him it won't be the first or last chance," Laxman said,confident the young cricketer will break records. "He's got a long career,with attitude to improve daily."
Laxman, who also leads the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, has tracked Sooryavanshi's progress for two years . He first spotted him before the 2024 Under-19 World Cup,where Sooryavanshi shone. "He was part of the quadrangular series in Vijayawada and top scorer for India B," Laxman recalled,highlighting his rapid rise. "Since then, he's been in various camps at the CoE and was the top run-scorer in the Under-19 World Cup."
While Sooryavanshi's technical skills need little tweaking, his awareness and maturity have grown significantly,Laxman said. "His maturity,understanding, and awareness have skyrocketed," he remarked. This growth helps him handle pressure against tough opponents.
Looking ahead,fitness is a focus. "One area we want him to improve is his overall fitness," Laxman noted, reminding that Sooryavanshi is young and keen to enhance his game. "Even after injury today,he wanted to be on the field." His eagerness shows his commitment to his team and ambition in cricket.
