Vaibhav Sooryavanshi believes his record-breaking maiden international half-century gave him the confidence he needed after a tough start to life in international cricket. The 15-year-old announced his arrival in style by smashing an 18-ball fifty against Zimbabwe in the opening T20I in Harare on Thursday, becoming the youngest player to score a half-century in men’s international cricket. The knock marks a dramatic turnaround for the teenage opener, who endured a disappointing debut series against England. Sooryavanshi managed just 42 runs in his first three T20I innings, scoring 14 off 10 balls, 13 off five deliveries and 15 off 10 balls. After helping India secure a seven-wicket win over Zimbabwe and a 1-0 lead in the three-match series, Sooryavanshi said the innings played an important role in boosting his confidence as he embarked on his international journey. “When you are at the starting stage of your career, and you get such opening innings, you get confidence for the next matches. I feel like I am in my zone and I support myself with strength,” Sooryavanshi said in a video posted by the BCCI. In 15 years and 118 days, Sooryavanshi surpassed the long-standing record held by: Sachin Tendulkar. The Indian batting legend was 16 years and 213 days old when he scored his first international fifty against Pakistan in the Faisalabad Test in 1989. Harare has become a memorable place for young people. Earlier this year, he set the same ground on fire with an impressive 175 off 80 balls against England in the final of the 2026 Under-19 World Cup. Months later, he returned to the venue to play another innings that emphasized his immense potential. Despite enjoying success in Harare, Sooryavanshi insists he is not taking any place or opportunity for granted and remains focused on making meaningful contributions wherever he plays. “There are certain fields where you want to run. I don’t take it for granted. I just try to play wherever I can, give my best, contribute to the team and do well,” he said. The teenager also acknowledged the role his supporters played in his rise, dedicating the milestone to his family and coaches. “I dedicate myself to my family, to my coaches, to everyone who supports me in my journey,” he concluded. Sooryavanshi’s explosive knock laid the foundation for India’s comfortable chase of 125 for seven in Zimbabwe, where the visitors sealed victory by seven wickets and took an early advantage in the three-match T20I series.