Ignore his birth certificate: Gavaskar demands Team India’s debut for Sooryavans – Sunil Gavaskar Backs Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for Team India Call-up
A New Force in Indian Cricket
The IPL 2026 season has been nothing short of a revelation, and at the heart of the excitement is Rajasthan Royals’ newest batting sensation, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. With over 600 runs under his belt and a fearless approach that has left seasoned international bowlers bewildered, the youngster has become the talk of the cricketing world. As the Rajasthan Royals prepare for their high-stakes Qualifier 2 clash against the Gujarat Titans in New Chandigarh, the debate surrounding Sooryavanshi’s international readiness has reached a boiling point.
Gavaskar’s Bold Endorsement
Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has thrown his weight behind the youngster, urging the national selectors to look beyond the birth certificate and focus on the sheer impact Sooryavanshi has created on the pitch. Following a blistering 97-run knock off just 29 balls against the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator, Gavaskar did not mince his words when discussing the teenager’s future.
“He is ready for T20 cricket. He is absolutely ready,” Gavaskar stated in an interview. “When the team is picked for the England tour, Vaibhav should be there. He deserves to play for the Indian team, considering his performance. If you don’t give him a chance, then when will you consider him?”
Age is Just a Number
Addressing critics who might point to his tender age, Gavaskar argued that Sooryavanshi’s ability to dominate experienced international players is proof enough of his maturity. The former captain noted that the youngster is consistently hitting fours and sixes against bowlers who have spent over a decade at the highest level of the game. According to Gavaskar, it is this lack of fear that sets him apart.
“Don’t look at his age, as he is hitting fours and sixes against bowlers who are 15 years older than him. There is no fear at all in his mind. No fear at all,” Gavaskar explained. He likened the youngster’s mindset to the innocence of childhood cricket, where the primary objective is to attack the ball rather than prioritize defense.
Technique Meets Power
One of the most common misconceptions about young power hitters is that they are mere “sloggers.” Gavaskar was quick to distinguish Sooryavanshi from that category. He praised the batter for his sound technique, specifically noting his ability to hit the ball straight over the bowler’s head with a straight bat. This fundamental discipline is what allows him to generate such immense power without compromising his form.
“He is a hitter but not a slogger. There is a difference between the two aspects of the game,” Gavaskar noted. He expressed a hope that as Sooryavanshi matures, he retains the “child within his batting style,” as it is that very sense of freedom that brings joy to the spectators and chaos to the opposition’s bowling plans.
Looking Toward the England Tour
The Indian cricket team is set to face England in a crucial series this July. While the national selectors have remained quiet regarding the teenager thus far, the clamor for his inclusion is growing louder by the day. Sooryavanshi has proven he has the skill set, the temperament, and the shot selection to thrive at the international level.
As the Rajasthan Royals push for the title, all eyes will be on the young prodigy in the Qualifier 2 match. Whether the selectors decide to fast-track him into the squad or opt for a more cautious approach, one thing is certain: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has announced himself on the biggest stage, and he is showing no signs of slowing down.
