Patna is buzzing with cricket excitement as former Indian wicketkeeper Saba Karim makes a bold call. The 14-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi, already turning heads with his explosive batting, deserves a spot in the national team right now, according to Karim.
Suryavanshi’s recent heroics in the Under-19 World Cup 2026 qualifiers have been nothing short of spectacular. He smashed 72, 40, and 52 runs in his last three outings, showcasing maturity beyond his years. ‘He’s incredibly talented. Watching him bat fills me with joy. It’s high time we include him in the Indian national team,’ Karim told reporters.
Karim highlighted the growing attention on the young star. State associations, BCCI’s Center of Excellence, and IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals are all keeping tabs. ‘Everyone’s working hard to nurture him. Soon, we’ll see him donning the national colors,’ he added optimistically.
What makes Suryavanshi’s case even more compelling is his IPL record. At just 14 years and 32 days, he became the youngest centurion in IPL history, blasting a 35-ball ton against Gujarat Titans for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025. This feat ranks as the second-fastest IPL hundred, trailing only Chris Gayle’s blistering 30-ball effort in 2013.
As India gears up for the T20 World Cup co-hosted with Sri Lanka starting February 7, Karim is confident. ‘Team India is in top form in T20s and white-ball cricket. We’ll cruise to victory. Test cricket needs some polishing, though.’
Suryavanshi’s rise from Bihar roots to international promise signals a bright future for Indian cricket, with veterans like Karim pushing for his early elevation.