Teenage batsman Vaibhav Sooryavanshi struck a rapid 38 off 21 balls to give India an explosive start in the Asian Games 2026 cricket semi-final against Sri Lanka.
The knockout match took place at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin, Japan, on October 1, 2026.
His quick-fire innings came after India lost two early wickets.
Both teams entered the semi-final following rain-abandoned quarter-finals that prevented prior play at the venue.
Rising Star on the Big Stage
Sooryavanshi arrived at the tournament after strong domestic and international performances through 2026.
Earlier in the year, he top-scored for India at the Under-19 World Cup, hitting 175 runs off 80 balls against England.
That innings included 15 sixes and was the second-fastest century in tournament history.
Senior team management has selectively featured Sooryavanshi in T20 international lineups throughout the year to manage his development within a deep batting roster.
His recent appearances included a maiden T20I half-century against Zimbabwe in July 2026.
In that series, he scored 81, 20, and 50 against Zimbabwe on July 26, 25, and 23 respectively.
He also made 15 and 13 against England on July 9 and 7.
The defending champion Indian squad continues its quest for a second consecutive gold medal at the Asian Games following Sooryavanshi's top-order contribution.
