![Vaibhav Sooryavanshi [Source: BCCI]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1784887787746_VaibhavSooryavanshi (16).jpg)
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi [Source: BCCI]
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi faced heavy criticism after failing to carry his sensational IPL 2026 form into international cricket during India's T20I series against England.
The 15-year-old batter struggled in his first few matches, leading many to question whether he was ready for the international stage. However, the young opener responded in the best possible way with a breathtaking innings against Zimbabwe.
On July 23 at the Harare Sports Club, Sooryavanshi ripped apart the Zimbabwe bowling attack and smashed his maiden international half-century in 18 balls. He eventually scored 50 off only 19 deliveries, helping India chase down the 126-run target in just 13.2 overs.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Reveals Reason Behind His Maiden Fifty Celebration
After reaching his maiden fifty, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi celebrated by making the letter 'A' with his fingers. Notably, the celebration first became popular during IPL 2026 when he performed it while playing for RR against LSG.
Interestingly, following India's victory over Zimbabwe, Sooryavanshi opened up about the reason behind the celebration during a video interview shared by the BCCI.
It is important to note that the letter 'A' is a tribute to his mother, Aarti, whose name begins with the same letter. Meanwhile, the 2nd part of the celebration was linked to a conversation he had with teammate Rinku Singh, who is also part of India's squad for the Zimbabwe T20I series.
"I had done it for my mother, and this one was also related to something that Rinku bhaiya and I had spoken about," said Sooryavanshi.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Scripts Another Historic Record
The half-century was not just another milestone, as it also helped Sooryavanshi create history once again. Earlier this month, on July 3, he made his T20I debut against England at the age of 15 years and 99 days, becoming the youngest player to represent India in men's cricket.
After just 3 weeks, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became the youngest player to score a fifty in men's international cricket. Notably, he reached the landmark in only 18 balls before finishing with a sensational 50 off 19 balls, an innings that featured 4 boundaries and 4 towering sixes.
Also Read: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Snubbed! Why Did Mayank Yadav Win Player Of The Match In IND Vs ZIM 1st T20I?
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Makes A Majestic Comeback
It is important to note that Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's debut international series didn't go according to plan. Notably, he managed scores of just 14, 13, and 15 in his first 3 innings before being dropped from the playing XI for the final match of the England series.
However, despite the disappointing start to his international career, Sooryavanshi grabbed his opportunity with both hands in Harare. Notably, the Universe Boss Boby bounced back in remarkable fashion.
Interestingly, the venue holds special memories for the youngster, as it was here that he smashed a blistering 175 off 80 balls in ICC Under19 World Cup final earlier this year.
Although he took a few deliveries to settle in, the left-handed opener soon shifted gears. After facing 4 balls, he launched a fearless attack on the Zimbabwe bowlers, striking boundaries all around the ground and clearing the ropes with ease.
As a result, India's chase was virtually sealed during the Powerplay itself. Richard Ngarava eventually dismissed the teenager immediately after he completed his half-century. Even so, the damage had already been done.
Ishan Kishan scored 35, while Shreyas Iyer remained unbeaten on 28, as India comfortably completed the chase to take the lead in IND vs ZIM T20I series.
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