Photo via Hindustan Times

Afghanistan watching Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's videos, plans ready for 15-year-old: ‘We have knowledge’

Ahead of the opening T20I at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday, Afghanistan skipper Ibrahim Zadran revealed that his squad has devised specific strategies to counter 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Zadran, who assumed leadership duties from Rashid Khan earlier this year, noted that video study and firsthand input from Afghan teammates who competed against the left-hander in the Indian Premier League have provided valuable tactical insights.

Sooryavanshi initially broke into the national setup following a 776-run breakout campaign with Rajasthan Royals, and despite an early slump that saw him omitted after three poor showings, he bounced back by earning Player of the Series honors against Zimbabwe with contributions of 50, 20, and 81 while opening with Abhishek Sharma. He also arrives with momentum after clinching the Duleep Trophy final with East Zone through a first-innings lead over South Zone.