"Getting such innings at the start, you get confidence": Sooryavanshi after becoming youngest men's international fifty-scorer
Harare, July 24
As India's teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became the youngest player to score a fifty in men's international cricket, he stressed the importance of building confidence early in his career, saying an innings like this at the start of his journey would provide a valuable boost for the matches ahead.
The teenage batter urged that he remained composed, trusted his abilities and played according to his strengths while scoring his maiden T20 half-century.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed an 18-ball half-century against Zimbabwe in the first T20I in Harare on Thursday.
"When you are in the starting phase of your career, and you get such an innings at the start, you get confidence for the next matches. It felt like I was in my zone and I backed my own strength," Sooryavanshi said in a video posted by BCCI.
Sooryavanshi reached his maiden international fifty at the age of 15 years and 118 days, surpassing the previous record held by former India great Sachin Tendulkar, who was 16 years and 213 days old when he scored his maiden international fifty against Pakistan in a Test at Faisalabad in 1989.
Harare holds special significance for the 15-year-old, who announced himself on the global stage with a blistering 175 off 80 balls against England in the U-19 World Cup final in January.
Sooryavanshi stressed that while some grounds bring out his best, he does not take any opportunity for granted and remains focused on giving his all, contributing to the team's success and performing consistently wherever he plays.
"There are some grounds where you like to make runs. I am not taking it for granted. I am just trying to play wherever I can, give my best, contribute to the team and do well," he said.
Sooryavanshi expressed gratitude towards his family, coaches and everyone who supported him throughout his journey, dedicating his success to their constant encouragement and guidance.
"I will dedicate myself to my family, to my coaches, to everyone who supported me in my journey," he concluded.
Sooryavanshi's record-breaking knock came as India chased down Zimbabwe's 125/7 with seven wickets in hand, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match T20I series.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally some good news for Indian cricket fans! After all the recent losses, this kid brings hope. But let's not put too much pressure on him - let him enjoy his game. Sabar rakho, he'll go far. 💪
Mark my words - this is the next big thing in Indian cricket. 18-ball fifty at 15 against Zimbabwe? That too at Harare where he scored 175 in U-19 WC final. The confidence he's showing is incredible. Bas consistently khelna hai ab.
I appreciate his attitude - not taking anything for granted, staying grounded, and giving credit to family and coaches. That's the kind of mindset we need. But let's see how he performs against stronger teams. Zimbabwe bowling isn't the toughest test.
Watching him bat is pure joy! So much talent at such a young age. His parents must be so proud. Just hope the system doesn't burn him out like it has with some earlier prodigies. Take care of this gem, BCCI! 🙏
Great knock, no doubt. But let's be honest - Zimbabwe are a weak side. The real test will come against Australia or England. Still, 15 years old and breaking Sachin's record is impressive. Curious to see how he develops.
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