Former Team India head coach Ravi Shastri on Thursday raised the questions on sidelining 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during T20I series against Ireland and England.
Speaking at a live broadcast of the first T20I between India and England, Shastri said the conditions in Ireland would have been ideal for the youngster to make his debut. According to him, Sooryavanshi has already shown that he can dominate top-quality bowling attacks and deserves an opportunity at the international level sooner rather than later.
The 15-year-old opener, who earned widespread praise following his remarkable IPL campaign, is still waiting for his international debut after missing every match in Ireland and remaining out of the playing XI for the opening T20I against England.
“He should’ve played in Ireland. That is such a slow and spongy track; he would’ve hit it on the roof as it was a small ground. He had to play there. I don’t know if he will play here. I am not sure whether they will play him, but get him as soon as you can. He has beaten everyone in IPL. Which fast bowler has he left? You are making him sit on the bench to warm him up,” Shastri said.
Shastri also highlighted the Sooryavanshi’s fearless approach could give India explosive starts in the powerplay. He believes the youngster’s attacking mindset can ease the pressure on the middle order by putting the opposition on the back foot early in the innings.
“They should play him because he is an X-factor. He has no baggage. He is 15 years old and is an exuberance of youth. He has no fear. If he plays two or three overs in the beginning, he gives such a start that the middle order can capitalise. So, we have to find a place for him, the sooner the better,” he added.
Despite growing calls for his inclusion, Sooryavanshi was once again not named in team India’s playing XI for the opening T20I against England. However, the match was abandoned due to rain, leaving the teenager still in search of his maiden international appearance.