"Harare is very special ground for me": Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of first T20I against Zimbabwe
Harare, July 22
Fifteen-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi said returning to Harare for the T20I series against Zimbabwe is a special moment, recalling India's triumph at the ICC Under-19 World Cup at the same venue earlier this year.
Speaking in a video shared by the BCCI ahead of the opening T20I of the three-match tournament, Sooryavanshi said the ground holds special memories after India's successful campaign in the U19 World Cup tournament.
"We are currently in Harare, Zimbabwe, and this is a very memorable ground for me. Just four months ago, we played the U-19 World Cup here and won it, so it's a very special ground. Representing India is everyone's dream, and it's a truly special moment to return and play on such a great ground where we created history just four months ago. It is a wonderful feeling, so we will enjoy it," Sooryavanshi said.
The youngster added that his previous experience of playing in Harare has helped him understand the conditions and that he hopes to use those learnings during the series.
"I got a good sense of the pitch and conditions back then as well. So I'll try to apply those learnings in the match and perform well. I'll stick to what I've been doing in practice and back my natural game, aiming to contribute as much as I can to the team. I played two matches on this ground earlier, and both went really well. I will try to carry that momentum forward," he said.
Sooryavanshi also expressed confidence in the team's preparations, crediting the coaching staff for ensuring the players were ready for the series.
"Obviously, whatever we need, the coaches are providing. I got all the practice I required, and I'm feeling good and confident. These last four months have had their share of ups and downs, but that's part of cricket and life. Ups and downs will keep happening. I just need to follow the process and give 100% for the team," he added.
The Zimbabwe series will begin four days after India tours England, with the T20Is scheduled on July 23, 25 and 26 in Harare.
— ANI
Reader Comments
These young guns are really exciting! But I hope the selectors don't rush him too much. He is just 15, and there's so much cricket ahead. Let him enjoy, learn, and grow at his own pace. The U-19 win was fantastic, and the same venue brings back great memories. 🎉
"Ups and downs are part of cricket and life" — spoken like a true champion! So much wisdom from a 15-year-old. It's heartwarming to see our boys speak about process over results. Wishing him and the team all the best for the Zimbabwe series. 🇮🇳🙏
Honestly, I'm a bit skeptical about playing such young players in international cricket too soon. It's great that he has the confidence and the experience at U-19 level, but senior cricket is a different ball game. Let's not burden him with too many expectations. Kaafi potential hai, but we need to handle him carefully.
Harare and U-19 World Cup win — what a feeling it must be for him to come back as a senior team member! The BCCI video gave me goosebumps. He has a solid head on his shoulders. Hope he has a great series and continues to shine for India. All the best, Vaibhav! 🌟
Impressive confidence from a kid who's only 15. His clarity about sticking to his strengths and backing his game is something many senior players struggle with. If he performs, we're looking at a future legend in
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