Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: The Young Cricketer Poised for Test Cricket Glory

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, at just 15, has made history by becoming the youngest player selected for the Indian national cricket team. Former cricketer Atul Wassan believes he should focus on Test cricket to gain true respect in the sport. Sooryavanshi's remarkable performance in IPL 2026, where he was the highest run-scorer, has further solidified his status as a promising talent. This article explores his journey and the expectations surrounding his future in cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 7, 2026, 00:08 IST

Historic Achievement for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

In New Delhi, former Indian cricketer Atul Wassan has advocated for the inclusion of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in Test cricket. This comes after Sooryavanshi made headlines by being selected for India's T20I squads for upcoming tours in Ireland and England, as well as the Asian Games. Notably, he has become the youngest player ever to be chosen for the Indian national team, breaking a record that stood for 36 years, previously held by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted at 16 against Pakistan in 1989.

The Importance of Test Cricket

Wassan emphasized the significance of Test cricket, stating that true respect among peers is earned through success in this format rather than in T20 matches. While acknowledging the allure of T20 cricket, which offers fame and financial rewards, he insisted that a solid Test record is what garners lasting respect in the cricketing world. He expressed optimism that Sooryavanshi could emulate the paths of cricket icons like Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar by making a mark in Test cricket.

"I don't know if Test cricket is on his radar, but his mentor should certainly instill the importance of it in him. Respect from fellow players comes from Test records, not T20 achievements. While T20 brings accolades and money, the respect you seek from other players is rooted in Test cricket. I believe he should be encouraged to pursue it," Wassan stated.

Sooryavanshi's Stellar IPL 2026 Performance

Sooryavanshi had a remarkable run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, where he played for the Rajasthan Royals (RR). He emerged as the highest run-scorer with an impressive total of 776 runs at a striking strike rate of 237.30. His outstanding performance included a record-setting 72 sixes, allowing him to break multiple long-standing IPL records and establish himself as a rising star in Indian cricket. He also swept the post-season awards, winning accolades such as Most Valuable Player (MVP), Emerging Player of the Season, Super Striker, the Orange Cap, and Super Sixes of the Season.

Wassan's Surprising Admiration for Sooryavanshi

Initially, Wassan had reservations about whether Sooryavanshi could sustain his early success, given the challenges of T20 cricket and the risks associated with aggressive batting. However, he has been pleasantly surprised by the young cricketer's ability to maintain his performance against top-tier bowlers. Wassan praised Sooryavanshi's fearless attitude and confidence, noting that his ongoing success has exceeded expectations.

"I used to think that the intensity he displayed early on would be hard to maintain. Regardless of skill or fitness, averages play a role in T20 cricket, where batsmen face immense pressure. Yet, the way this boy has performed against elite players and bowlers has truly surprised me," Wassan remarked.