‘I’d like to be him’ – Ireland players express enthusiasm ahead of battle with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could make his international debut during the two-match T20I series against Ireland. The 15-year-old received a maiden call-up to the senior national team after his scintillating performance during this year’s Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Sooryavanshi finished as the highest run-getter, amassing 776 runs in 16 matches at an average of 48.50 and a strike rate of 237.30.

The Bihar batter also played a jaw-dropping knock in the tri-nation series final in Sri Lanka, as his 94 off 29 balls set up a comprehensive win for India A.

While India is excited to watch Sooryavanshi setting the international arena ablaze, the Irish players are also gearing up to challenge themselves against his batting might.

Ireland’s opening batter Ross Adair recently said that he would want to play like Sooryavanshi. The former hailed the Rajasthan Royals batter for his fearless approach and added that it’s cool to be part of his journey.

“One of those guys I’d like to be. He’s no fear, doesn’t care who he is batting against – he just wants to take everyone on, and India have given him the licence to do that. It’s a big occasion for them and for us, so it’s cool to be a part of it,” Adair told the BBC.

It’s about doing your research and working out a plan for him: Matthew Humphreys

Meanwhile, Matthew Humphreys, who bowls left-arm spin and even takes the new ball in the power play, said that the Irish bowlers will not be under too much pressure when they come up against Sooryavanshi, as everyone will expect them to get hit for sixes. The 23-year-old mentioned that research and planning will be crucial before taking on the Indian batting prodigy.

“Opening the bowling, you’re taking on the best guys in cricket. The expectation [in T20I] is you’re going to get hit for six, so there’s less pressure on the bowler. Sooryavanshi has put his name out there as one of the most explosive guys at the top of the order and has taken some big names by hitting them for six in the IPL. It’s about doing your research and working out a plan for him,” the 23-year-old said.

Sooryavanshi, however, might not get his maiden cap right away. Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, who helped India win the T20 World Cup earlier this year, are expected to play the first T20I, which will be hosted in Belfast on Friday, June 26.