15-Year-Old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Breaks India Age Record and Faces Immediate Pressure

Low scores in his first two T20 internationals following a heavy team defeat have prompted experts to urge stronger protection for his welfare.

Overview

Sooryavanshi became the youngest male to play for India at 15 years and 99 days, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record when he was handed a T20I debut.
He has made only small contributions so far, scoring 14 off 10 on debut and 13 off five in his next outing while India suffered a 125-run loss that intensified scrutiny.
Former players including AB de Villiers warned that at 15 Sooryavanshi is still immature, predicted his character will be tested and suggested the franchise-era pull of T20 could steer his future away from Test cricket.
Cricket authorities have already put welfare steps in place with the BCCI funding parental travel and hosts arranging safeguarding measures, and commentators are urging coach Gautam Gambhir to shield the teenager from media and fan pressure.
Sooryavanshi’s rapid rise from a standout U-19 175 and an explosive IPL season has created big commercial and selection pressures that could shape his format choices and long-term development.