Exclusive: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Childhood Coach Manish Ojha Reacts to Historic India Debut, Dreams of Sachin-Virat Legacy

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has had his coronation as an India player, finally, after weeks of intense anticipation as India are playing England in the 2nd T20I on Saturday (July 4).

The Fifteen-year-old sensation became the youngest cricketer to represent India in international cricket, debuting in the second T20I against England on Saturday (July 4) at Old Trafford in Manchester.

Born on March 27, 2011, the left-handed opener walked in at 15 years and 99 days, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s 36-year-old record (16 years 205 days) as India’s youngest men’s international debutant. He also surpassed Washington Sundar’s mark as the youngest Indian T20I player.

Having debuted in first-class cricket at just 12 (Ranji Trophy), List A at 13, and T20 domestic at 13, Sooryavanshi’s rapid rise marks a new era. His fearless batting and power-hitting promise fireworks on the biggest stage. Indian cricket celebrated the emotional moment as the teenager received his cap, ushering in a generational talent.

And on the special day, MyKhel caught up with Vaibhav’s childhood coach Manish Ojha, who was beaming with pride about his disciple.

“It is not just a great opportunity, it’s a very proud moment. Every cricket coach wants his kids to represent his country. Today, Vaibhav has fulfilled that dream. It’s a very proud moment for me and for the whole of Bihar.”

Ojha has been an integral part of Vaibhav’s journey. The youngster has already been tipped to reach greatness by many former cricketers, and as a coach, he hopes for the same.

“I just want to send my blessings to Vaibhav. My suggestion to him would be to continue the way he has batted. The entire nation is happy for him. He has shown his talent, and now the task would be to be in the same league as Sachin (Tendulkar), Virat (Kohli) in the coming years.”

On the day, Sooryavanshi opened the batting and scored 14 runs off 10 deliveries, hitting 2 sixes. The youngster hit a six on the second ball of his innings and has already shown a glimpse of his unwavering talent.