Will Sooryavanshi make his India debut in 2nd T20I? 15-year-old drops cryptic hint
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Instagram post has sparked speculation that his India debut could come in the second T20I against England in Bristol on Saturday. After spending the first three matches of India's tour of the United Kingdom on the bench, the 15-year-old opener could finally be set for his senior cap.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may finally get his long-awaited India debut when the side takes on England in the second T20I in Bristol on Saturday. The 15-year-old opener has travelled with the Indian squad throughout the tour of the United Kingdom but is yet to feature in a match. He sat out both T20Is against Ireland before remaining on the bench for the opening T20I against England, which was washed out after India completed their innings.
On Friday, the teenage opener posted an Instagram story with the caption "New chapter," sparking speculation that he could be in line for his first international appearance. The left-hander earned his maiden India call-up after a breakthrough IPL season and has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in Indian cricket. Videos of his clean striking during training have gone viral during the tour, further fuelling calls for his inclusion.
India bowling coach Morne Morkel, however, suggested the team management would not rush the teenager into the XI at the expense of established players.
"I think we need to respect the fact that we had our No. 1 batter in T20 cricket, Abhishek Sharma. Sanju was the player of the World Cup," Morkel said on Friday.
"Samson had a great IPL. As a coaching staff, it's only fair to show trust and support for your players. Yes, a young man is knocking on the door, and that's exciting. But for not just those two players at the top, but for the entire group, it's good that we show our support."
Morkel said India wanted to back players who had consistently delivered on the international stage.
"It's about standing by some of the guys who have won World Cups, who have performed well in tough situations, and then building from there to strengthen our top order as much as possible in these conditions," he said.
The former South Africa fast bowler also praised the youngster's attitude since joining the squad.
"I think he's fitted in very well. At the nets as a 15-year-old on the international stage, it can be intimidating.
"But from the couple of sessions we've had, he's been very impressive. We're all excited to see how he performs. When he gets an opportunity, I'm sure he'll be ready. Fitting into the squad has been very smooth."
Sooryavanshi's chances of making his debut have come under greater focus because of Sanju Samson's recent struggles. The wicketkeeper-batter has managed scores of 5, 0 and 1 in his last three T20I innings, putting his place under scrutiny ahead of the second match.
India have given no indication that Sooryavanshi will make his debut, but his Instagram post has only added to the anticipation. The final decision will become clear when the playing XI is announced before the second T20I in Bristol.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may finally get his long-awaited India debut when the side takes on England in the second T20I in Bristol on Saturday. The 15-year-old opener has travelled with the Indian squad throughout the tour of the United Kingdom but is yet to feature in a match. He sat out both T20Is against Ireland before remaining on the bench for the opening T20I against England, which was washed out after India completed their innings.
On Friday, the teenage opener posted an Instagram story with the caption "New chapter," sparking speculation that he could be in line for his first international appearance. The left-hander earned his maiden India call-up after a breakthrough IPL season and has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in Indian cricket. Videos of his clean striking during training have gone viral during the tour, further fuelling calls for his inclusion.
India bowling coach Morne Morkel, however, suggested the team management would not rush the teenager into the XI at the expense of established players.
"I think we need to respect the fact that we had our No. 1 batter in T20 cricket, Abhishek Sharma. Sanju was the player of the World Cup," Morkel said on Friday.
"Samson had a great IPL. As a coaching staff, it's only fair to show trust and support for your players. Yes, a young man is knocking on the door, and that's exciting. But for not just those two players at the top, but for the entire group, it's good that we show our support."
Morkel said India wanted to back players who had consistently delivered on the international stage.
"It's about standing by some of the guys who have won World Cups, who have performed well in tough situations, and then building from there to strengthen our top order as much as possible in these conditions," he said.
The former South Africa fast bowler also praised the youngster's attitude since joining the squad.
"I think he's fitted in very well. At the nets as a 15-year-old on the international stage, it can be intimidating.
"But from the couple of sessions we've had, he's been very impressive. We're all excited to see how he performs. When he gets an opportunity, I'm sure he'll be ready. Fitting into the squad has been very smooth."
Sooryavanshi's chances of making his debut have come under greater focus because of Sanju Samson's recent struggles. The wicketkeeper-batter has managed scores of 5, 0 and 1 in his last three T20I innings, putting his place under scrutiny ahead of the second match.
India have given no indication that Sooryavanshi will make his debut, but his Instagram post has only added to the anticipation. The final decision will become clear when the playing XI is announced before the second T20I in Bristol.
