Vaibhav Suryavanshi: Rising Star in U19 World Cup 2026 Faces Early Setback
Vaibhav Suryavanshi Shines in U19 World Cup 2026
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a promising young cricketer, is currently representing the India U19 team at the U19 World Cup 2026 taking place in Zimbabwe. As the youngest member of the squad, he has caught the attention of selectors through his outstanding performances in various formats, including the IPL, Youth ODI, and Test series, demonstrating remarkable maturity for his age.
Impressive IPL Debut and Recent Performances
Suryavanshi made headlines during his debut IPL season in 2025, where he scored a record-breaking century against the Gujarat Giants. He finished as the fifth-highest run-scorer for the Rajasthan Royals, accumulating 252 runs with an average of 36 and a striking rate of 206.56, including a century and a fifty. His remarkable performances continued during tours in England, Australia, and South Africa, as well as in the U19 Asia Cup.
Strong Showing Before the World Cup
Prior to the U19 World Cup, Suryavanshi excelled in a three-match ODI series against South Africa U19, scoring 206 runs, which included a century and a fifty, averaging 68.67.
Challenging Start in the U19 World Cup
As one of the key players to watch in the U19 World Cup, Suryavanshi participated in India's opening match against the USA at the Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo. After the Indian bowlers restricted the USA to 107 runs, India was set a target of 108. Opening the batting with captain Ayush Mhatre, Suryavanshi had a disappointing outing, scoring only two runs before being dismissed by Ritvik Appidi in the third over.
Match Dynamics Shift After Rain
The match was interrupted by rain, with India at 21/1 in 4 overs. Upon resumption, the target was revised to 97 runs from 36 overs. Despite a shaky start where India lost three quick wickets, Abhigyan Kundu's steady performance of 42 not out led the team to a six-wicket victory.
WV Raman's Controversial Take
Following India's victory, former women's cricket coach WV Raman shared his 'unpopular opinion' regarding Suryavanshi's participation in U19 cricket. He expressed concerns that playing at this level might hinder Suryavanshi's long-term development, suggesting that the focus should be on broader career growth rather than immediate success.
Debate Among Fans
Raman's comments sparked a lively debate among cricket fans on social media. While some agreed with his perspective, advocating for Suryavanshi to focus on higher-level cricket, others argued that participating in the U19 World Cup would provide invaluable experience. Many emphasized that age should not limit a talented player from competing in high-pressure situations.
Looking Ahead
Vaibhav Suryavanshi is expected to return to the field when India faces Bangladesh in their next group stage match at the U19 World Cup on January 17.