AB de Villiers Applauds Young Talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Selection in India's T20I Squad

Praise for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Renowned South African cricketer AB de Villiers has expressed admiration for 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, highlighting his exceptional talent and potential in various formats of the game. De Villiers also commended the selectors for their decision to include the young prodigy in India's T20I squad.

Historic Selection for India's National Team

On Saturday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced Sooryavanshi's inclusion in the squads for the upcoming tours to Ireland and England, as well as the Asian Games. At just 15 years old, he has made history by becoming the youngest player ever selected for the Indian national team, surpassing a 36-year-old record previously held by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted at 16 against Pakistan in 1989.

De Villiers Discusses Sooryavanshi's Future in Red-Ball Cricket

During a Kabuni event at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, de Villiers shared insights on Sooryavanshi's future in red-ball cricket. He remarked, "He is undoubtedly a remarkable talent. Whether he pursues red-ball cricket is uncertain; it depends on his desire. He possesses the skill and capability, but the journey won't always be straightforward. I hope he considers playing Test cricket, but I have my doubts. Time will reveal his path."

Selectors' Bold Move Recognized

De Villiers praised the selectors for their courageous choice to include Sooryavanshi in the T20I lineup, describing it as "the right decision" and a "brave move." He noted, "It would have been easy to overlook him due to his age and opt for more experienced players. He has broken through barriers and earned his spot in the Indian T20 team, and I am thrilled for him."

Sooryavanshi's Remarkable IPL 2026 Performance

Sooryavanshi had an outstanding season in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, playing for Rajasthan Royals (RR). He emerged as the highest run-scorer, amassing 776 runs with an impressive strike rate of 237.30. His remarkable consistency, including a record-setting 72 sixes, allowed him to break multiple long-standing IPL records and establish himself as a rising star in Indian cricket. The Bihar-born player dominated 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.