'Having skill is one thing': Shikhar Dhawan drops big verdict on Sooryavanshi

Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan has lauded teenage batsman Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, hailing his fearless batting and ability to excel at such a young age. In an interview with news agency ANI, Dhawan called it a remarkable feat for a 15-year-old to reach the international level and maintain consistent performances. He complimented Sooryavanshi's IPL displays, noting his confidence in hitting boundaries sets him apart.

Dhawan stressed that talent alone is insufficient; possessing the courage and mindset to play attacking cricket at a young age is what truly distinguishes Sooryavanshi. He expressed confidence that Sooryavanshi's current form is excellent, and his future holds great promise. The 15-year-old recently had a successful T20I series against Zimbabwe, scoring 151 runs in three matches and clinching the Player of the Series award as India secured a 3-0 series win.

Earlier, Sooryavanshi made his international debut during the T20I series against England, becoming the youngest player to represent India. His IPL 2026 season with Rajasthan Royals was equally impressive, where he scored 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.30, including a century and five half-centuries. Sooryavanshi finished as the tournament's top run-scorer, earning multiple awards, including the Orange Cap, Most Valuable Player, Emerging Player, Super Striker, and Super Sixes.

Earlier this year, he also shone in the ICC Men's Under-19 Cricket World Cup, scoring 439 runs and earning the Player of the Tournament accolade.