Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, India's 15-year-old batting prodigy, said his confidence remains unshaken despite a turbulent four months, as he gears up for the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe beginning Thursday in Harare. Speaking ahead of the series opener, Sooryavanshi said he is focused on trusting his process and contributing fully to the team.

A Rollercoaster Four Months

Sooryavanshi made history earlier this year by becoming India's youngest-ever international cricketer, breaking a record long held by Sachin Tendulkar. The milestone came during India's 4-0 T20I series defeat in England, where, despite the historic debut, he failed to cross 20 runs in three innings and was subsequently dropped for the final match in Southampton.

'Yes, there have been several ups and downs in the last four months. It's part of cricket, it will keep happening. But I have to follow the process and give my 100 per cent for the team,' Sooryavanshi said in a video posted on bcci.tv.

Returning to a Memorable Ground

The Harare Sports Club holds special significance for Sooryavanshi. It was here, just four months ago, that he smashed a match-winning 175 off 80 balls against England in the Under-19 World Cup final in February, helping India lift the trophy. Returning to the same venue for senior international duty adds an emotional dimension to the assignment.

'It's a very memorable ground for me. Just four months back, we had played the U-19 World Cup Final and won, so a very special ground. To represent India is everyone's dream and it's a very special moment,' he said.

He added that playing on the same ground where he made history at the Under-19 level 'will be an altogether different feeling,' and that he is 'really enjoying it.'

What He Brings to the Zimbabwe Series

With senior opener Sanju Samson rested, Sooryavanshi is expected to feature in the top order as India seek to arrest a run of consecutive T20I series defeats in Ireland and England. His familiarity with Harare's pitches and conditions — gained during the Under-19 World Cup — is seen as an advantage.

'The pitches and the conditions here, I've got a fair idea about them when I last played here during the U-19 World Cup. So, I will try to apply those learnings during the matches now and do well,' he said.

Confidence Intact, Coaches Supportive

Sooryavanshi acknowledged that the support structure around him has been crucial. 'Whatever guidance I want, the coaches are making it available and whatever practice I require I am getting that. Feeling very good, there is confidence also,' he said. The teenager added that he would back his preparation and aim to carry forward the form he showed in his two previous appearances at the Harare venue.

With the Zimbabwe series offering a fresh start, all eyes will be on whether Sooryavanshi can convert his undoubted talent into consistent performances at the senior level.