Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin encouraged the budding India star and cautioned him to bat with his heart, as the brutal nature of Pakistan may cause him to lose his composure.
With incredible progression, Vaibhav has become one of the most promising young players in Indian cricket. He made his Ranji Trophy debut at age 12, while in his first year of a ten-year span, he was a major force on the biggest stage, helped by scoring a 100 in the IPL at 14. He bowled as supremely onto run-laden and topscored in the 2026 season, earning the Orange Cap, which made him a part of the Indian squad for Ireland and England.
The 17-year-old Vaibhav will become the Indian No 1 for appearances at the international level if he is called up in the 17-man squad for Ireland.
On Harsha’s tweet about the kid, Ashwin suggested that he play with his own style. He’s still a 15-year-old boy, he ought to play the way he plays in the streets of his village, he should enjoy the game and entertain us – otherwise there will be pressure on him later as cricket is going to be his profession. “But right now it’s the game, he should just enjoy the game”, Ashwin said.
The old timer also spoke highly of Vaibhav, saying he was a special talent who could modify the delivery style quickly in front of the quality bowlers and how he is much more mature than his age.
Sitanshu Kotak, the India batting coach, also found himself uplifting with reference to the youngster, however gulped that he’d be backed by India in due time, pointing out that it would not be adhering to as well as equal to abrogating a player who’s playing in form for Vaibhav to give his debut honour.