‘Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could be an impact player in Test cricket’ – Ex-Australia captain on youngster’s ideal batting role

The youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to impress with his consistency, particularly in the T20 format, already making a name for himself with his exceptional batting ability. He was picked by Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction for INR 1.1 crore.

The youngster cemented his place in the franchise’s playing XI with a series of remarkable knocks. He carried that form into India’s Under-19 setup before showcasing his talent in the ongoing Indian Premier League season. At just 15, he has already smashed two centuries in the tournament.

As Sooryavanshi continues to rise, discussions have intensified over when he should be given an opportunity in the senior Indian team. While most debates have centred around white-ball formats, former Australia cricketer Aaron Finch believes the young prodigy has the potential to excel in Test cricket as well.

“There’s a place in Test cricket for impact players like that. You think of Rishabh Pant and the point of difference he has, he’s one player who can put real fear into an opposition because he’s unpredictable,” Finch told the Sydney Morning Herald.

“We’ve seen what Vaibhav (Sooryavanshi) can do against the new ball in T20. If he batted at five in Test cricket against a 50-over-old ball, what could he do there? The thing that astounds me is his ability to strike the ball from ball one. Even against the best bowlers in the world, he walks out; he’s got no fear, but he also has the ability to sum up game situations as well. As a 15-year-old, that’s an incredible skill to have. He’s mature way beyond his years,” he added.

Sooryavanshi is currently the fourth-highest run-getter in the ongoing IPL season, amassing 404 runs in 10 innings. He has maintained an impressive average of 40.40 and a staggering strike rate of 237.64, including one century and two half-centuries. Notably, he has smashed 37 sixes, the most by any player in the tournament so far.