Despite the recent controversy surrounding India’s Under-19 tour of Sri Lanka, teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to earn praise from some of the biggest names in world cricket. Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith has become the latest high-profile figure to hail the youngster, describing him as one of the most exciting T20 batting talents he has seen in recent years. Sooryavanshi has rapidly emerged as one of the most talked-about cricketers in the country. Smith believes the left-hander possesses a rare combination of power, confidence and consistency that sets him apart from other young prospects.
The cricketing world first took notice of Sooryavanshi during his debut IPL season with the Rajasthan Royals in 2025. The youngster stunned fans and experts alike with his fearless batting approach and explosive strokeplay. Since then, his rise has only accelerated. He followed up his IPL heroics with a breathtaking innings of 175 runs off just 80 deliveries in the ICC Under-19 World Cup final, further cementing his reputation as a generational talent. However, it was IPL 2026 that truly elevated him into the national spotlight.
The teenage sensation amassed 776 runs during the season at an impressive average of 44.69 and an extraordinary strike rate of 237.30. Those remarkable numbers earned him his maiden India call-up for the T20I series against Ireland and England. He was also rewarded with a place in India’s squad for the 2026 Asian Games in Japan.
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Speaking to Wisden, Graeme Smith admitted that Sooryavanshi has captured the imagination of cricket fans around the world. The former Proteas skipper said the teenager’s ability to dominate bowlers across all areas of the ground has made him one of the most exciting players to watch. “It’s the nature of cricket where everyone just keeps being skeptical, ‘Let’s see him do it outside of India.’ Let’s see him do it in international cricket.”
“But I’ve not seen a guy who is that consistent in power hitting against some of the best in the world. There have been some unbelievable prospects in different formats of the game over the years, but I can’t remember a better batting prospect since T20 took off around 2007.”
Smith noted that bowlers have already tried various tactics against the youngster, including short-pitched deliveries, but Sooryavanshi has consistently found answers. According to the former South African captain, the margin for error against the left-hander is incredibly small because of his ability to attack almost every type of bowling.
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The SA20 commissioner also praised the Indian selectors for showing courage by fast-tracking the teenager into the national setup. Smith believes India’s decision reflects long-term planning ahead of the next T20 World Cup rather than a sole focus on immediate results.
“It’s an interesting selection from India and brave for a team that’s just won a World Cup to make the big, bold calls they have. I think it’s smart. There are two years between World Cups, and they’re giving their young talent the best chance to get as many games as possible before the next World Cup. They’re blessed with talent, but I think the selectors have shown courage and foresight. You might not win everything up front, but the plan is to be ready for two years’ time, and I think it’s food for thought for the other countries.”
