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Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in SMAT - (Source: ScreenGrab/X)
On Saturday, November 14, the 19th edition of Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy kicked off with 19 matches being played across the country. It is a special day for 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as he led Bihar for the first time in white-ball cricket.
Notably, Bihar locked horns against Saurashtra, where Sooryavanshi walked down the track for toss. With the feat, the 15-year-old rewrote history books and became the youngest captain in T20 history.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Becomes Youngest Captain in T20 history
At 15 years and 232 days old, Sooryavanshi shattered Croatia’s Zach Vukusic’s record to become the youngest captain in T20 history. Previously, the Croatian star held the record when he led his nation at the age of 17 years and 311 days last year.
Youngest Captains in T20 History
- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi - 15 years and 232 days
- Zach Vukusi - 17 years and 311 days
Notably, Sooryavanshi was all set to break the feat when Bihar’s squad was announced last Monday, naming the 15-year-old as captain for the first two matches.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi In Leadership Scheme of things
Interestingly, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was never considered for leadership roles during his under-19 days. He played under Ayush Mhatre’s leadership. However, in 2026, Sooryavanshi has been in the scheme of things for leadership roles.
Previously, Vaibhav was named Ishan Kishan’s deputy in the East Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy. There was a period in that match when Ishan Kishan got injured, and Sooryavanshi led the side. However, this ongoing role is his first assignment as full-time captain.
Although, it looks like the captaincy pressure has got onto him because the southpaw fell for just 18 (12), which featured 2 fours and a solitary six.
Sachin Tendulkar Not In Favour Of Sooryavanshi leading a team
Sooryavanshi given captaincy at just has sparked a debate. Recently, Sachin Tendulkar jumped onto the bandwagon and opined his views.
The Master Blaster stated that Vaibhav Sooryavanshi should not be given leadership roles at such a young age.
“I feel its too early for him to become a vice-captain in the Duleep Trophy. We have to let him play more matches with the red ball and take one step at a time,” remarked Sachin Tendulkar during a reddit Q&A.
