Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s possible senior India debut has led to increased ticket demand in Ireland before India’s two-match T20I series against Ireland, which begins in Belfast on June 26.
The 15-year-old left-hander is in line for a potential India appearance after attracting attention during the IPL. The Times of India reported that former India and Ireland cricketer MV Narasimha Rao said the interest around Sooryavanshi has created a ticket rush, with fans from parts of Europe looking to travel for the match.
Rao says Stormont demand has risen before the Belfast opener
MV Narasimha Rao said local organisers may need to consider extra seating because the Stormont ground in Belfast has a capacity of about 7,000 seats.
Supplemental editorial cricket visual for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi buzz drives Ireland ticket demand before possible India debut.
Rao told PTI from Strabane, Ireland: “I think they will have to put more seats because this stadium has only 7000 seats or something. Already, people from other parts of Europe like Paris etc want to come, hopefully, we can find a way to accommodate them.”
Rao said Sooryavanshi’s debut, if selected, would be a significant moment for supporters in Ireland. Rao added: “So, I think it will be history, a momentous day if he makes his debut in Ireland. It was unexpected, and in the last 10 days, it’s really a big excitement here.”
Supplemental editorial cricket visual for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi buzz drives Ireland ticket demand before possible India debut.
Belfast conditions could suit the young left-hander, Rao says
Rao said Belfast conditions may suit Sooryavanshi because he expects slower wickets and does not view Ireland’s attack as having the same pace threat that the teenager may face later.
Supplemental editorial cricket visual for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi buzz drives Ireland ticket demand before possible India debut.
Rao said he watched Sooryavanshi during the IPL and described the batter as “phenomenal” and “great to watch”. The former all-rounder also said a later India trip to England would bring a tougher examination because the ball moves there and the weather can change quickly, even during a T20 match.
Comparison to Sobers comes with a warning to stay grounded
Rao compared parts of Sooryavanshi’s batting style with Gary Sobers, while also warning that the attention around the young player will create pressure.
Rao said Sooryavanshi’s high backswing, straight bat path, and ability to pick up the ball quickly reminded him of matches he had watched of the West Indies great. Rao also said the teenager can play many shots at a young age.
Rao urged Sooryavanshi to stay grounded and used Sachin Tendulkar as the example for temperament. Rao said: “He has God-given talent. But my word is that like Sachin Tendulkar, he should keep his head down and feet on the ground. It will be a big test for him because he is a superstar now.”
India’s team selection for the Belfast T20I will confirm whether Sooryavanshi makes his senior international debut against Ireland.
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