NEW DELHI: Ever since 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was selected in India’s T20I squad, one question has dominated discussions among fans and experts. When will the boy from Samastipur, Bihar, make his debut in India?The excitement started after Sooryavanshi’s incredible IPL season. He scored 776 runs at a staggering strike rate of 237.30, almost single-handedly taking Rajasthan Royals to the playoffs. His performances earned him a place in the Indian squads for the T20I series against Ireland and England, as well as the Asian Games.But despite all the buzz, the left-handed batter is still waiting for his first ever international cap.
The calls for his debut are getting louder
Sooryavanshi did not get a game during India’s two-match T20I series against Ireland.Ahead of the two matches, fans and former cricketers debated whether India should give the teenager a chance. Those discussions became louder after India suffered a shock 2-0 series defeat, with the top order struggling in both matches.The demand for Sooryavanshi’s inclusion continued in the England series.However, when India played the first T20I against England at Chester-le-Street, the youngster remained on the bench once again.Now, all eyes have shifted to the second T20I at Old Trafford in Manchester.
Why would Old Trafford be the perfect venue?
There is another reason why Manchester will be a special place for Sooryavanshi’s debut.If he plays in the second T20I – or at any point during the series in England – he will become the youngest Indian to make an international debut, breaking the long-standing record held by Sachin Tendulkar.Tendulkar made his India debut against Pakistan in Karachi in November 1989 at the age of 16 years and 205 days.Old Trafford holds a special place in Indian cricket history because it was where Tendulkar announced himself on the world stage.Less than a year after making his international debut, the batting legend scored his first international century at the Manchester venue against England in 1990.Tendulkar made 68 in the first innings before making a memorable 119 not out in the second innings to save the Test for India. His outstanding effort earned him the Player of the Match award. If Sooryavanshi gets his debut cap at Old Trafford, it will be more than a choice.The same place where Tendulkar scored his first international hundred could also be the place where another teenage batting sensation started his international journey.If the team management was looking for the perfect stage to introduce one of India’s brightest young talents, Old Trafford offered a fitting stage for the big moment for 15-year-old Sooryavanshi.