Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has praised Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for the fearless way he approached his international debut, but he also warned that the 15-year-old will soon face a much sterner examination as opposition bowlers begin to study his game closely. Sooryavanshi scored 14 off 10 balls in the second T20I against England in Manchester before being dismissed by spin, as India slipped to a four-wicket defeat.

Even so, Irfan Pathan said there was plenty to admire in the teenager’s batting intent and composure on such a big stage. Speaking on JioStar’s Game Plan, he highlighted the significance of a 15-year-old making his India debut in England and the inspiration that moment could provide for young cricketers across the world.

“A 15-year-old boy playing international cricket is not just the biggest takeaway for the Indian team from that game, but for world cricket. He is inspiring a whole new generation of young boys and girls by saying, ‘If I can do it, you can do it too,’” Irfan Pathan said on JioStar.

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Pathan added that Sooryavanshi would naturally be disappointed not to convert a promising start into a bigger innings. Even so, he felt the youngster stayed true to his game and did not get overawed by the occasion.

“He will be disappointed that he got out for 14 after facing 10 balls, so even in terms of strike rate, he fell a bit short of the standards he has set for himself. But I liked that he didn’t shy away from playing his natural game,” Irfan Pathan said.

The former all-rounder also stressed that Sooryavanshi’s next challenge will be technical as much as mental. Once opposition teams gather more data, they will begin setting traps, especially against spin, and the youngster will need to stay balanced and disciplined in his shot selection.

“He is a special talent, no doubt, but he needs to make sure he is ready for the plans bowlers will come up with against him. Like in the first game, if you want to step out against the spinners in England, it’s not a bad option since the ball doesn’t turn that much there, but you need to maintain your balance and not move too far away from the ball,” Irfan Pathan explained.

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With the five-match series locked at 1-1, India will now head into the third T20I at Trent Bridge in Nottingham on Tuesday, July 7. Pathan said he would make only one change to the XI, bringing in Prince Yadav for Ravi Bishnoi unless conditions strongly favour spin.