Patna: Bihar’s teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi etched his name into the record books after becoming the youngest player to score an international half-century across all formats of cricket. The 15-year-old reached the milestone during India’s T20 International against Zimbabwe.
Suryavanshi, aged 15 years and 118 days, smashed 50 runs from just 19 balls, reaching his half-century in 19 deliveries. His attacking innings featured four fours and four sixes before he was dismissed on the very next ball after completing the landmark.
Record-Breaking Knock
With the innings, Suryavanshi surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record as the youngest player to score an international half-century.
Tendulkar had registered his maiden international fifty against Pakistan in 1989 at the age of 16 years and 213 days. Suryavanshi’s achievement comes 37 years after that landmark, placing him at the top of the list of the youngest international half-centurions.
Strong Response After Lean Series
The knock marked a significant turnaround for the Samastipur-born batter, who had endured a difficult three-match T20 series against England. He managed scores of 14, 13 and 15 in that series.
Against Zimbabwe, however, Suryavanshi adopted an aggressive approach from the outset. His 50 came at a strike rate of more than 263, giving India a commanding start in the chase.
Ishan Kishan Provides Valuable Support
India’s chase was also strengthened by Ishan Kishan, another cricketer from Bihar, who scored 35 off 24 balls. His innings included three fours and two sixes.
The partnership helped India overhaul Zimbabwe’s target of 126 in just 13.2 overs, sealing a comfortable victory.
Joins the Record Books
Suryavanshi now leads the list of the youngest players to score an international half-century. The previous record-holder, Sachin Tendulkar, achieved the feat at 16 years and 213 days, followed by Shahid Afridi at 16 years and 214 days and Mushtaq Mohammad at 17 years and 39 days.
By reaching the milestone at just 15 years and 118 days, Suryavanshi has established a new benchmark in international cricket and further strengthened his reputation as one of India’s brightest young batting prospects.
