Former India opener Aakash Chopra has suggested that teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could be released from India’s T20I squad to play domestic cricket if he continues to remain on the bench. Chopra acknowledged that the decision would be difficult but argued that regular match time is important for the young cricketer’s development.
The 15-year-old was part of India’s squad for the recently concluded five-match T20I series against the West Indies but did not feature in any of the matches. India relied on established openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma throughout the series, which ended in a 2-2 draw after the final match was abandoned due to rain.
Aakash Chopra Explains the Selection Challenge
Chopra said Sooryavanshi’s limited opportunities were largely the result of competition for places rather than a lack of talent. He pointed out that the teenager faces competition from experienced top-order batters, making it difficult for the team management to accommodate everyone in the playing XI.
The former cricketer suggested rotating players to provide opportunities to the available opening options. However, he acknowledged that such an approach has not received much support.
Chopra described the situation as heartbreaking for the young batter but said there might be no alternative if a place cannot be created for him in the team.
Why the Ranji Trophy Could Help
Chopra believes keeping Sooryavanshi in the squad without allowing him to play could limit his immediate opportunities to develop through competitive cricket. He suggested that the youngster could return to domestic cricket, including the Ranji Trophy, if he is unlikely to feature in upcoming T20Is.
Regular match practice would allow Sooryavanshi to continue developing his batting and gain valuable experience while waiting for another international opportunity.
Sooryavanshi’s T20I Numbers
Despite his limited appearances in recent series, Sooryavanshi has made an encouraging start to his international career. He has scored 246 runs in eight T20Is at a strike rate of more than 186, including two half-centuries.
His aggressive batting has attracted considerable attention, but competition for opening positions has restricted his opportunities in India’s playing XI.
Chopra Defends Tilak Varma
Chopra also cautioned against calls to drop Tilak Varma to accommodate Sooryavanshi. He pointed to Tilak’s previous centuries and contributions in the middle order, arguing that his performances should be considered in the context of his batting position and role in the team.
The former opener maintained that selection decisions should account for the contributions of established players rather than judging them solely on recent results.
What Lies Ahead for the Young Batter?
Sooryavanshi’s situation highlights the challenge of balancing opportunities for emerging talent with the demands of international team selection. While his performances have demonstrated his potential, India’s established batting options continue to compete for limited places.
Whether the team management gives him another opportunity in the playing XI or allows him to gain further experience in domestic cricket remains to be seen.