India’s opening T20I against Ireland in Belfast on Friday could be heavily affected by rain, casting doubt over what could be a historic international debut for teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
The 15-year-old has been named in India’s squad for the two-match T20I series and is in contention to make his senior international debut. If selected, Sooryavanshi would become the youngest player to represent India in international cricket.
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However, weather forecasts have emerged as a major concern ahead of the series opener. According to AccuWeather, Belfast is expected to witness rain and possible thunderstorms throughout the day. The probability of rain is around 51 per cent late in the morning and rises to 59 per cent during the afternoon, around the scheduled match time. Although the chances of showers decrease later in the evening, intermittent rain is expected to continue, raising fears of a shortened contest or even a complete washout.
Sooryavanshi earned his maiden India call-up after an outstanding IPL 2026 campaign with Rajasthan Royals. The explosive left-hander finished as the tournament’s highest run-scorer with 776 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 237.30. His season included one century, five half-centuries and a record 72 sixes.
The youngster also impressed during the recent tri-series featuring Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A, scoring 211 runs in five innings at an average of 42.20. His unbeaten 94 in the final and an 11-ball fifty against Sri Lanka A further strengthened his credentials.
While cricket fans eagerly await the teenager’s possible debut, all eyes will first be on Belfast’s weather, which could play a decisive role in determining whether the opening T20I gets underway as scheduled.
