‘No surprise’: New Zealand ready for ‘unreal talent’ Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of T20I series

New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson is looking forward to bowling with 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the upcoming T20I series against India and says the teenager’s inclusion in the national team is “no surprise”.Sooryavanshi has been named in India’s squad for the five-match T20I series against New Zealand starting on October 22.“I played with him in the IPL. He’s a real talent. He’s an unbelievable talent. It’s no surprise he’s been pushed into the Indian line-up. I think he’s done back-to-back IPL series and he’s been exceptional,” Ferguson told reporters on Sunday.“So yeah, I’m looking forward to the challenge that comes with New Zealand. I imagine it’s obviously his first time here. I’m not sure if he’s played cricket here before. But yeah, it’s going to be an amazing series.”New Zealand will host India for a multi-format tour with two Tests, five T20Is and five ODIs.“Unreal India side, we know that. But hosting them in New Zealand will be really amazing,” Ferguson was quoted as saying by PTI.The 35-year-old spent nearly a decade playing in the IPL, representing five teams, including former champions Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans. He said playing alongside and against Indian cricketers in the league helped him understand how they approach the game.“It was amazing to play against them (Indian players) and with them in the IPL. So I got to know how they prepare for games and how they play cricket in India, which can be challenging for better or for worse. I have a lot of great mates.”Ferguson also said India’s paceman Arshdeep Singh is looking forward to bowling in New Zealand, where the conditions offer more swing and bounce.“I know Arshdeep is looking forward to bowling in New Zealand where the ball swings and bounces a little bit more.Ferguson will also return to the New Zealand ODI team after three years. He was named in the squad for the fourth and fifth ODIs against India, marking his return to the format since the 2023 World Cup semi-final against India in Mumbai.