Why Old Trafford could be the perfect venue for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s India debut

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (BCCI Photo) NEW DELHI: Ever since 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was picked in India’s T20I squad, one question has dominated discussions among fans and pundits: When will the boy from Samastipur in Bihar make his India debut?The excitement started after Sooryavanshi’s sensational IPL season. He scored 776 runs at a staggering rate of 237.30, almost single-handedly taking Rajasthan Royals to the playoffs. His performances earned him a place in the Indian squads for the T20I series against Ireland and England as well as the Asian Games.But despite all the buzz, the left-handed batsman is still waiting for his first international cap.

Calls for his debut are growing

Sooryavanshi was not given a match during India’s two-match T20I series against Ireland.Ahead of both matches, fans and former cricketers debated whether India should give the teenager a chance. These discussions became louder after India suffered a shock 2-0 series defeat, with the top order struggling in both matches.Demand for Sooryavanshi’s inclusion continued into the England series.However, when India played the first T20I against England at Chester-le-Street, the youngster was benched once more.Now all eyes have shifted to the second T20I at Old Trafford in Manchester.

Why Old Trafford could be the perfect venue

There is another reason why Manchester would be a special place for Sooryavanshi’s debut.If he plays in the second T20I – or at any time during the England series – he will become the youngest Indian to make his international debut, breaking the long-standing record held by 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 was where Tendulkar announced himself on the world stage.Less than a year after his international debut, the batting legend scored his first international century in Manchester against England in 1990.Tendulkar made 68 in the first innings before producing a memorable 119 not out in the second innings to save the Test for India. His remarkable efforts earned him the Man of the Match award. If Sooryavanshi receives his debut cap at Old Trafford, it will be more than just another selection.The same ground where Tendulkar scored his first international hundred could also become the place where another teenage batting sensation begins his international journey.If the team management are looking for the perfect stage to showcase one of India’s brightest young talents, Old Trafford offers a fitting stage for 15-year-old Sooryavanshi’s big moment.