The world of youth cricket witnessed a historic moment on the second day of the first Youth Test between England and India U19 at Beckenham. While India’s formidable first-innings total of 540 was built on the back of stellar centuries and near-centuries from Ayush Mhatre, Abhigyan Kundu, and Rahul Kumar, it was a bowling breakthrough from an unexpected source that stole the limelight. Vaibhav Suryavanshi, primarily known for his batting prowess, etched his name in the record books by becoming the youngest Indian to take a wicket in Youth Test cricket, achieving the feat at just 14 years and 107 days.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s bowling breakthrough against England U-19

Suryavanshi’s cricketing journey has, until now, been defined by his exploits with the bat. Yet, on a sunlit afternoon in Beckenham, it was his left-arm orthodox spin that turned heads. England’s reply to India’s imposing total had gained momentum, thanks to a resilient partnership between Rocky Flintoff and captain Hamza Shaikh. With the Indian bowlers searching for answers, Suryavanshi was handed the ball, perhaps more in hope than expectation.

What followed was a moment of serendipity. Off the final delivery of his over, Suryavanshi sent down a low full toss—a ball that, more often than not, is dispatched to the boundary. But fate had other plans. Shaikh, looking to accelerate, lofted the ball straight to Henil Patel at long-off. The catch was safely pouched, and with it, Suryavanshi had his maiden Youth Test wicket. The Indian team erupted in celebration, aware that they had just witnessed a piece of history. Not only did this wicket break a crucial partnership, but it also marked a significant personal milestone for the young all-rounder, who now joins the ranks of cricket’s youngest achievers.

Also WATCH: Vaibhav Suryavanshi headlines 1st Youth ODI with dazzling 19-ball 48 in ENG U19 vs IND U19 clash

Suryavanshi joins the pantheon of youth cricket records

Suryavanshi’s achievement places him in an elite list of prodigies who have made their mark on the youth international stage at a tender age. At 14 years and 107 days, he surpasses the previous Indian record held by Manishi, who had claimed his first Youth Test wicket against South Africa in 2019. Only two players—Pakistan’s Mahmood Malik and Hidayatullah Khan—were younger when they achieved similar feats, underscoring the rarity and significance of Suryavanshi’s accomplishment.

While the overall world record remains with Malik, who was just 13 years and 241 days old when he took his maiden wicket in 1994, Suryavanshi’s entry into this distinguished group signals the emergence of a new Indian talent with the potential to shine on both sides of the game. His breakthrough serves as inspiration for aspiring cricketers across the country, proving that age is no barrier to making history. As the Youth Test series unfolds, all eyes will be on Suryavanshi—not just for his batting, but for the promise his bowling now holds.

Also READ: Top 5 fastest fifties in Youth ODIs by Indians ft. Vaibhav Suryavanshi