Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has urged head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shreyas Iyer to give young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi an opportunity in the final T20 International against the West Indies.
With India leading the five-match series 2–1, Nayar believes the team should aim to seal the series in the fourth match and then use the final game to test the teenage opener. His suggestion has renewed discussion about Sooryavanshi’s continued absence from the playing XI.
Nayar’s Plan for Sooryavanshi
Speaking on Star Sports, Nayar suggested that India should focus on winning the fourth T20I and securing an unassailable lead in the series. That would allow the team management to give Sooryavanshi an opportunity in the fifth match.
The former assistant coach believes the youngster deserves a chance to showcase his abilities at the international level. His comments come as questions continue over India’s decision to persist with its established opening combination.
Why Has Sooryavanshi Not Played?
India have relied on Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson at the top of the order during the series. The team management has preferred experience and continuity, leaving Sooryavanshi waiting for his opportunity.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir has previously explained that talented players sometimes need to wait for their turn. Bowling coach Morne Morkel has also highlighted the value of the youngster spending time with experienced teammates and learning from the team’s preparation and training routines.
The Young Batter’s Growing Reputation
Sooryavanshi, who is 15, attracted considerable attention with his performances in the IPL 2026 season. His aggressive batting and ability to score quickly have made him one of India’s most closely watched young prospects.
His progress has prompted discussions about how quickly promising youngsters should be introduced to senior international cricket. Supporters of his inclusion argue that match experience could help him develop, while the team management must also consider the balance and consistency of the playing XI.
India’s Series Position
India entered the fourth T20I with a 2–1 lead in the five-match series against the West Indies. A victory would secure the series and give the team management greater flexibility when selecting the side for the final match.
Nayar’s proposal is therefore tied to the series situation: win first, then consider giving Sooryavanshi a chance in the final game.
Will Sooryavanshi Get His Opportunity?
The final decision rests with Gambhir, Iyer and the selection team. Sooryavanshi’s inclusion would offer an opportunity to assess his readiness for senior international cricket, but his selection is not guaranteed.
For now, the focus remains on India’s fourth T20I. The result could determine whether the team enters the final match with the freedom to experiment or still needs its preferred combination to secure the series.