New Delhi: Ever since 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was selected in India’s T20I squad, one question has dominated the discussion among fans and pundits: When will the boy from Samastipur, Bihar, make his India debut?The excitement started after Sooryavanshi’s IPL season. He scored 776 runs at an amazing rate of 237.30, almost single-handedly taking Rajasthan Royals into the playoffs. His performances earned him a place in India’s squad for the T20Is against Ireland and England, as well as the Asian Games.But despite that, the left-handed batsman is still waiting for his first international cap.
The call for his exposure is growing
Sooryavanshi did not get a game in India’s two T20I matches against Ireland.Before the match, fans and former cricketers debated whether India should give the youngster a chance. The talks took a turn for the worse after India’s shocking 2-0 series defeat in which they won both matches.The importance of Sooryavanshi’s inclusion continued in England’s list.However, when India played the first T20I against England at Chester-le-Street, the youngster was again on the bench.Now, all eyes will turn to the second T20I at Old Trafford in Manchester.
Why Old Trafford can be a great place
There is another reason why Manchester would be a special place to start Sooryavanshi.If he plays in the second T20I – or at any point in the England series – he will become the youngest Indian to play in an international, breaking the previous record held by him. Sachin Tendulkar.Tendulkar made his debut for India against Pakistan in Karachi in November 1989 at the age of 16 years and 205 days.Old Trafford holds a special place in the history of Indian cricket because it is where Tendulkar made his international debut.Less than a year after making his international debut, the batting legend scored his international debut in Manchester against England in 1990.Tendulkar made 68 in the first innings before making a memorable 119 not out in the second innings to save India’s Test. His incredible effort earned him the Player of the Match award. If Sooryavanshi gets his first cap at Old Trafford, it could be more than just another selection.The same place where Tendulkar scored his maiden international century could also be the place where another batting threat begins his international journey.If the team management is looking for the perfect place to introduce some of India’s brightest young talent, Old Trafford offers the right role for 15-year-old Sooryavanshi.