Irfan Pathan Advocates for Young Talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Quick Inclusion in Indian Cricket Team

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has praised 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his remarkable performances in the IPL and urged for his swift inclusion in the national team. Vaibhav's ability to hit Jasprit Bumrah for six on his first ball has left a lasting impression. However, opinions are divided, with some, like R Ashwin, advocating for a more cautious approach regarding the young talent's entry into the team. This article explores the contrasting views on Vaibhav's future in cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 8, 2026, 12:59 IST

Irfan Pathan's Praise for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has expressed his admiration for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a promising 15-year-old cricketer, urging for his swift entry into the national team. Vaibhav has excelled in U19 and domestic cricket over the past year, yet doubts lingered about his ability to replicate that success in the IPL. After a stellar performance against Chennai Super Kings, where he scored a fifty, and an impressive 31 against Gujarat Titans, he stunned everyone by hitting Jasprit Bumrah for a six on his very first ball in Guwahati. Just two balls later, he struck another six off Bumrah, leaving the bowler visibly shocked. Pathan remarked that Vaibhav made Bumrah, regarded as the world's top bowler, rethink his strategy and called on the BCCI to expedite his selection for the Indian cricket squad.

Pathan stated, “Sooryavanshi is a child of destiny. What he is accomplishing at just 15 in white-ball cricket is unprecedented. This young prodigy eagerly awaited his chance against Jasprit Bumrah, whom he had previously been dismissed by. He returned this year and hit him on the very first ball.” He further noted, “Bumrah appeared to lack a clear plan, and Vaibhav's ability to force even him to reconsider his approach is remarkable. In white-ball cricket, India has yet to find a bowler of Bumrah's caliber. This achievement against him is significant. Vaibhav focuses solely on the ball, disregarding the bowler's action, which is what sets him apart.”

Pathan concluded, “Do not delay in giving this boy his Indian team cap. Just think – he could have a 20-year professional career ahead of him, which is daunting for bowlers.”

Diverse Opinions on Vaibhav's Future

While Vaibhav has demonstrated his readiness for the highest level of cricket, his young age has led to mixed opinions regarding his immediate inclusion in the national team. Former cricketer R Ashwin has voiced concerns, suggesting that it may be too much pressure for the young talent to be thrust into the Indian team at such a tender age. Although Ashwin believes Vaibhav will eventually represent India, he advocates for a more measured approach.

“Avoid placing such expectations on him. He is still a child. If MS Dhoni can play until 45, and if Sooryavanshi has a career until 40, he has plenty of time ahead in cricket. Let him develop naturally; he will find his way when the time is right. He is undoubtedly talented enough to play for India, but we must be patient,” Ashwin remarked on his YouTube channel.