Mumbai: Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar believes teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has done enough to push for a T20I call-up, but warned that a place in India’s Test side may take longer due to intense competition for opening slots.

“He is ready… but are others ready to make way?”

Sooryavanshi has been one of the standout performers in the Indian Premier League 2026 season, scoring 404 runs in 10 matches at an average of 40.4.

Manjrekar, speaking to Sportstar, didn’t hold back in his assessment:

“If someone is lighting up this stage like this, then he is ready. But are the others ready to make way? There is a huge crowd for opening slots in India.”

The remark underlines a familiar challenge in Indian cricket — abundance of talent leading to selection headaches.

T20 success vs Test cricket demands

Manjrekar highlighted Sooryavanshi’s fearless, modern batting style:

  • Creates room outside leg stump
  • Attacks even straight deliveries through unconventional angles
  • Plays with freedom typical of T20 specialists

However, he cautioned that this approach may not directly translate to red-ball cricket.

“In Tests, the advice is to get close to the ball,” he noted, pointing out the technical adjustments required for longer formats.

Backed by domestic performances

Beyond the IPL, Sooryavanshi has also impressed in domestic cricket, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he scored a century — strengthening his case for national selection in the shortest format.

Chasing a six-hitting record

The youngster is also on the verge of a major milestone:

  • Needs 6 more sixes to break the record
  • Current record holder: Abhishek Sharma
  • Record: 42 sixes in IPL 2024

He could potentially achieve the feat in the upcoming clash against Gujarat Titans.

Selection dilemma for India

Sooryavanshi’s rise presents selectors with a classic dilemma:

  • ✅ Form and impact demand immediate attention
  • ❗ But limited spots at the top order
  • ⏳ Transition to Tests requires technical refinement and patience

The bigger picture

Manjrekar’s “bullseye” observation reflects a broader truth:

  • India’s bench strength is deeper than ever
  • IPL performances can fast-track careers
  • But format-specific readiness still matters

For now, Sooryavanshi looks primed for India’s T20 future, while his Test ambitions may depend on timing, adaptability, and opportunities opening up.