India’s teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is looking to turn the page as the T20I series against Zimbabwe begins on Thursday. After a whirlwind few months that included a breakthrough IPL season, a record-breaking international debut, and a difficult tour of England, the 15-year-old says he is focused on moving forward with confidence.

Sooryavanshi admitted the past four months have tested him in different ways, but the young opener believes staying committed to the process is the key to overcoming setbacks.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi reflects on challenging four months

The left-handed batter earned his place in India’s T20I squads for the Ireland and England tours after an impressive IPL campaign.

Although he did not get a game during the two-match series in Belfast, Sooryavanshi made his international debut in the second T20I against England in Manchester. In doing so, he became India’s youngest-ever international cricketer, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record.

He featured in the next three T20Is but was unable to produce a big score. Ahead of the fifth and final match, India brought back Sanju Samson, leaving the teenager out of the playing XI. India eventually lost the series 0-4.

The decision to drop Sooryavanshi after just three innings drew criticism from several former cricketers, who questioned the team management’s call. Despite the disappointment, the youngster insisted he remains focused on improving.

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“Yes, there have been several ups and down in the last four months (kaafi ups and downs aaye hain 4 mahine mein). It’s part of cricket it will keep happening but I have to follow the process and give my 100 per cent for the team,” Sooryavanshi told bcci.tv.

Coaches’ support boosts young batter’s confidence

The young opener was visibly emotional after missing out on the final T20I against England. However, he said the backing from the coaching staff and the support system around him helped him regain confidence ahead of the Zimbabwe series.

According to Sooryavanshi, he has received everything needed to prepare for the next challenge. “It’s an obvious thing that whatever I want (guidance etc), the coaches are making it available and whatever practice I require I am getting that. Feeling very good, there is confidence also,” he said.

With previous success at the venue, Sooryavanshi is expected to be in contention for a place in India’s playing XI for the opening T20I.

Return to a ground filled with special memories

The Zimbabwe venue holds a special place in Sooryavanshi’s career. Only four months ago, he played a starring role in India’s victorious Under-19 World Cup campaign at the same ground. His remarkable 175 off just 80 balls against England in the final helped India lift the title and remains one of the standout innings of the tournament.

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Now, the teenager has returned to the same venue as a member of India’s senior squad.

“It’s a very memorable ground for me. Just four months back, we had played the U-19 World Cup Final and won, so a very special ground. To represent India is everyone’s dream and it’s a very special moment. I’m playing on a ground where we won the U-19 World Cup four months back and made history (and) to return to the ground and play here will be an altogether different feeling… really enjoying it,” he said.

Sooryavanshi hopes to use Under-19 World Cup experience

The teenager believes his familiarity with the conditions could prove valuable if he gets another opportunity in India’s T20I side. Having already played two matches at the venue during the Under-19 World Cup, he feels that experience can help him adjust quickly and contribute to the team.

“The pitches and the conditions here, I’ve got a fair idea about them when I last played here during the U-19 World Cup. So, I will try to apply what I gathered during that tournament to the matches now and do well. I will back my practice so far and try to back my game… and whatever contribution I can make to the team, I will try to give. I have played two matches on this ground (and) it went well. I will try to carry it forward,” he added.

Vaibahv Sooryavanshi during IPL 2026
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Vaibahv Sooryavanshi during IPL 2026 | X [ANI]

Zimbabwe series offers fresh opportunity

The upcoming T20I series presents another chance for Sooryavanshi to establish himself at the international level.

After experiencing the highs of becoming India’s youngest international cricketer and the disappointment of being left out during the England tour, the 15-year-old is preparing for the next chapter with renewed belief.

With confidence restored, familiarity with the conditions and valuable experience already gained in international cricket, Sooryavanshi will hope to make the most of any opportunity that comes his way against Zimbabwe.

FAQs

What did Vaibhav Sooryavanshi say about his recent struggles?

Sooryavanshi said he has faced several ups and downs over the past four months but remains focused on following the process and giving his best for India.

Why is the Zimbabwe venue special for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi?

It is the same ground where he scored 175 in the U-19 World Cup final against England and helped India win the title four months ago.