Mohit Sharma Backs 15-Year-Old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for Indian Team After IPL 2026 Heroics

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: The Next Big Thing in Indian Cricket?

At just 15 years old, Rajasthan Royals’ batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is doing what few teenagers can even dream of — consistently dismantling bowling attacks in the IPL. His fearless approach and explosive strokeplay in IPL 2026 have sparked nationwide debate: is it time to fast-track him into the Indian national team?

Former India pacer Mohit Sharma has now added his voice to the growing chorus, urging selectors Ajit Agarkar and Gautam Gambhir to give Sooryavanshi a chance at the highest level — not out of urgency, but with thoughtful timing.

A Star in the Making

Sooryavanshi made history in IPL 2025 by becoming one of the youngest players ever to feature in the tournament, debuting at just 14. A year later, he’s transformed from a prodigy into a powerhouse. In 12 matches this season, he’s amassed 486 runs at a staggering strike rate of 234.78, including a century and two fifties. Currently sitting sixth on the IPL 2026 Orange Cap leaderboard, the young opener hasn’t spared any bowler.

His aggressive brand of cricket — a blend of power, precision, and fearless intent — has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s great entertainers. But it’s not just about flair; his performances are consistently against top-tier bowling units, a fact Mohit Sharma emphasized.

“Try Him Out,” Says Mohit Sharma

“Of course, he should play for India. Why not?” Sharma said in an interview with SportsBoom. “What do you need to play for your country? You need to perform against top players and top teams — which he is already doing in the IPL. Now, it comes down to team combinations and how the team thinks. If we are talking about whether he is ready or not, I would say try him out if there is a spot.”

Sharma stopped short of advocating for a rushed promotion, instead stressing the importance of patience. “We shouldn’t fast-track him. But when the opportunity arises, don’t hesitate. Talent like his doesn’t come around every season.”

Proving Ground: India-A Duty in Sri Lanka

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has already signaled confidence in Sooryavanshi’s potential by naming him in the India-A squad for an upcoming List-A tri-series in Sri Lanka. The tournament, running from June 9 to 21, features Sri Lanka-A and Afghanistan-A and follows a double round-robin format before culminating in a final.

While Tilak Varma leads the side and Riyan Parag serves as vice-captain, Sooryavanshi’s inclusion is seen as a crucial step in his development. The BCCI has also scheduled two four-day unofficial Tests against Sri Lanka-A, though his participation in the red-ball format remains uncertain.

The Evolving Landscape of Indian Opening Batsmen

India’s top order, especially in T20Is, has become a hotly contested battlefield. With Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson currently holding the fort as openers, competition is fierce. Others like Ishan Kishan, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and even Shubman Gill are vying for a spot.

Mohit Sharma acknowledged this shift: “If you see Abhishek Sharma, he also plays an aggressive brand of cricket. Earlier, it was about power and range-hitting; now, there is a lot of focus on technique and timing. It is great for the current generation, led by players like Abhishek and Ishan Kishan.”

Yet, Sooryavanshi’s raw explosiveness offers a different dimension — one that could be invaluable in death overs or chasing big totals.

“I’m Glad I’ve Retired,” Says Sharma

In a lighthearted moment, Mohit Sharma joked about facing Sooryavanshi: “Not just batting, but smashing all top fast bowlers. He will learn and evolve with time. Currently, he is only playing one style and format. With his talent, I am sure he will go a long way. I am happy I have retired, or else I would have been smashed too.”

That line captures the awe surrounding Sooryavanshi — not just his present impact, but his long-term potential. At 15, he could realistically represent India for the next 15 to 20 years, should his development continue on this trajectory.

For now, the cricketing world watches closely. The IPL has been his stage. International cricket might be next.