Indian teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi broke another record on Sunday, July 26, becoming the first men's cricketer to register two international fifties before turning 16. The left-hander achieved the milestone during the third and final T20I against Zimbabwe, going past Nepal's Kushal Malla in the process. The 15 year old opener brought up his second T20I half-century with a single off Wessly Madhevere before eventually being dismissed for a superb 81 off 49 balls, an innings studded with eight fours and four sixes.

It has been a memorable tour of Zimbabwe for the Vaibhav. He announced himself with a breathtaking 18-ball maiden T20I fifty in the opening match before following it up with a brisk 20 off just nine deliveries in the second game. That 18-ball half-century also made him the youngest player in history to score a T20I fifty. He made an aggressive start in the third T20I as well, driving Sikandar Raza for a boundary off the very first ball of India's innings before adding another four later in the over. He looked good for a century but fell short when he was dismissed for 81.

Most 50-plus scores before turning 16 in men's internationals

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi โ€“ 2

Kushal Malla โ€“ 1

Malla had scored his maiden international half-century on his ODI debut against the United States in February 2020.

Netizens hail Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after record-breaking knock

After Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed a stunning 81 in the third T20I against Zimbabwe, a large section of social media went into a buzz praising the talented youngster. He was praised for the way he attacked Zimbabwe's bowlers from the outset while also rotating the strike smartly through the middle overs. Many supporters also highlighted his consistency, pointing out that he had now backed up his maiden T20I fifty with an even bigger score. Others noted that after impressing in the IPL, the youngster has carried the same fearless intent into international cricket.

At the same time, several fans urged everyone to avoid comparing him with Indian legends too early. They felt that while the hype around the teenager is justified, he should be allowed to develop naturally without the weight of unrealistic expectations.

Although many were disappointed that Sooryavanshi missed out on a maiden international century, the reaction remained overwhelmingly positive. Fans expressed confidence that hundreds would soon follow if he continues batting with the same freedom and composure.

Overall, social media was unanimous in its verdict after the innings, with many believing Indian cricket has discovered a rare talent capable of becoming one of the country's biggest stars in the years to come. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi caps off a memorable tour to Zimbabwe with a fine performance which has helped India post a good total.