Gambhir Says Sooryavanshi Must Wait for India Chance
Gambhir Says Sooryavanshi Must Wait for India Chance
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Key Points
1
Abhishek Sharma scored the third-fastest century in T20I history during India’s 127-run victory in the series finale, helping consolidate his place as an opener.
2
Gambhir defended Sanju Samson’s selection by saying Samson’s talent and record were sufficient to keep him in the dressing room, noting that he had previously been named Player of the Tournament at a World Cup.
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Sooryavanshi’s Asian Games selection does not guarantee immediate playing time: the team will be led by Shreyas Iyer and coached by V.V.S. Laxman, with Samson and Abhishek Sharma still likely to be preferred.
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Sooryavanshi’s India debut came after Samson was dropped from the playing XI following three low scores—one against England and two against Ireland—but the teenager was subsequently left out after failing to make an impact in his first three international games.
India's head coach Gautam Gambhir shut down expectations for 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after leaving him out of the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. Gambhir said established players like Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson remain ahead of the newcomer, regardless of age. "Whether you're 15 or 30, you have to wait," Gambhir stated, defending the decision after India swept the series 3-0.
Sooryavanshi, the IPL's leading scorer this year, debuted against England in July and scored two half-centuries against Zimbabwe. But he hasn't played for India since. Gambhir promised the teenager an extended run when his chance comes, while confirming he will travel with India's Asian Games squad.
Sharma's Century Cements His Opening Spot
Abhishek Sharma scored the third-fastest century in T20I history during India's 127-run victory in the series finale against Afghanistan. The explosive performance solidified Sharma's position as an opener for the national team. Gambhir pointed to Sharma's recent form as proof that established players deserved continued selection over prospects like Sooryavanshi.
Samson's Track Record Protects His Spot
Gambhir defended keeping Sanju Samson in the squad despite recent inconsistency. Samson was previously dropped after three low scores against England and Ireland. But Gambhir said Samson's long track record and World Cup Player of the Tournament award justified keeping him in the dressing room, even without playing time during the Afghanistan series.
Asian Games Selection Won't Guarantee Playing Time
Sooryavanshi's selection for India's Asian Games squad does not guarantee he will play. The team will be led by Shreyas Iyer and coached by V.V.S. Laxman. Gambhir made clear that Samson and Abhishek Sharma remain the preferred options for batting roles, meaning Sooryavanshi faces stiff competition even in the tournament squad.
From Debut Hopes to Back of the Queue
Sooryavanshi's rise has stalled since July's England debut. After recording two fifties against Zimbabwe, the teenager has failed to make an impact in subsequent appearances. Gambhir made clear the door remains open but not immediately. "Whenever he gets it, he will get a longer run," Gambhir said, signaling patience is required.
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