New Delhi: After Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s jaw-dropping performance in the U-19 World Cup final, former India spinner R Ashwin has made a bold prediction about the teenager’s future, saying fans should not be shocked if he breaks into international cricket soon.
Responding to Vaibhav’s final over, Ashwin highlighted how extraordinary the knock was.
“Scored 175 (80), 15 fours and 15 sixes in the U19 WC final, with 85.7% of the runs in the boundary. It was ridiculous. This was a follow-up to his 68 (33) in the semi-finals chasing a 300+ target. Vaibhav has owned the big stage like he was born for it. A prodigy with serious tournament temperament,” R Ashwin wrote on X.
The 14-year-old left-hander stormed England’s bowling in Harare, blasting 175 runs off just 80 balls in the final. His innings included 15 fours and 15 sixes, with most of his runs coming in boundaries.
India then posted a massive score of 411 for 9, leaving England completely unable to cope with the match.
Ashwin also pointed out Vaibhav’s consistency throughout the tournament.
“Overall Championship stats: Leading run-getter, 439 runs at 62.71, SR 169.49. T20 strike rate of 170 is elite. Total 30 sixes, 78.35% of runs within boundaries.
“This kid is knocking on the door of international cricket fast and hard. Don’t be surprised if that door opens after the T20 World Cup.”
Vaibhav’s rise has been meteoric. The 13-year-old made a splash on his U-19 debut against Australia before being picked up by Rajasthan Royals to make headlines in the IPL.
He hit his first six on debut and went on to smash the second-fastest century in IPL history, announcing himself as a rare, fearless talent born for the biggest stage.
