Mumbai: The exclusion of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi from India’s playing XI for the fifth T20I against England has sparked debate among former cricketers, with many questioning whether the young batter is being given the right support during the early stages of his international career.
The 15-year-old, who became India’s youngest-ever international cricketer during the series, was left out of the side after three appearances in which he scored 14, 13 and 15 runs. While the decision to bring back experienced opener Sanju Samson was viewed as a tactical move, Sooryavanshi’s disappointed reaction after being dropped drew attention from cricket experts.
Former India batter Ambati Rayudu expressed concern over the way the youngster appeared to handle the setback, suggesting that the team management needs to ensure better communication and protection for a player expected to have a long international career.
Ambati Rayudu raises concerns over communication
Speaking on Sony Sports, Rayudu said Sooryavanshi’s reaction indicated that he may not have been informed about his exclusion well in advance.
“The way Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was reacting, it seemed he was not communicated to the night before that he was not playing. The decision to play Samson may have been taken today. Communication is important,” Rayudu said.
He added that the management’s responsibility is not only about selecting players but also about supporting young talents during difficult moments.
“It’s very important for management to absorb all the negativity, soak up all the pressure, and keep youngsters like him in a bubble of positivity. This does not augur really well in terms of doing that,” he said.
Rayudu further highlighted Sooryavanshi’s potential, stating that the teenager could serve Indian cricket for many years.
“I just feel that he is not being well protected because he is someone who will serve Indian cricket for 20-25 years. You can’t lose out on a kid who is so brilliant. You need to take care of him just a little bit more,” he added.
Sunil Gavaskar backs another opportunity for Sooryavanshi
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar also disagreed with the decision to leave out the teenage opener for the final T20I. He believed Sooryavanshi deserved another chance to learn from his early mistakes.
Gavaskar pointed out that the youngster had shown glimpses of his ability despite limited opportunities in the series.
“I don’t have a problem with Samson coming in. We had predicted Sooryavanshi at No. 3. You saw the way he walked. He is disappointed. We should have given him another opportunity in this game to see whether he has learnt,” Gavaskar said.
The batting legend added that Sooryavanshi’s dismissals came while attempting aggressive shots, but his talent was clearly visible.
“Twice he has got out playing the hook shot. Look at him. Dejected. Disappointed. I hope he only looks at this as a challenge now. Not being in the side is very disappointing,” he said.
Gavaskar also highlighted the quality of Sooryavanshi’s hitting during his brief international appearances.
“He had given glimpses. He was ready to explode. In all three innings, he has hammered two sixes right out of the middle of the bat. There have not been any edges or anything of that sort. The potential is there,” he added.
Young batter faces first major challenge
Sooryavanshi entered the Indian team after a sensational IPL 2026 season, where his explosive batting performances made headlines. His ability to clear the boundary consistently earned him widespread praise and raised expectations ahead of his international debut.
However, international cricket presents a different challenge, with bowlers quickly identifying weaknesses and adapting their plans. England’s bowlers targeted his vulnerability against short-pitched deliveries, resulting in three early dismissals.
The management’s decision to rotate him after a short run has now become a talking point. While some believe experienced players should get opportunities in important matches, others feel young players need extended backing to develop confidence.
India’s upcoming three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, beginning on July 23, could provide Sooryavanshi with another opportunity to return to the playing XI and continue his international journey.
Focus shifts to nurturing India’s next generation
The debate around Sooryavanshi is not only about one selection decision but also reflects the larger challenge of managing young sporting talent. With Indian cricket constantly searching for the next generation of match-winners, maintaining confidence and providing a supportive environment becomes crucial.
The teenager’s early struggles are unlikely to define his career, but how the team management handles this phase could play an important role in his development. With his age, talent and impressive domestic record, Sooryavanshi remains one of India’s most exciting prospects.
As India prepare for future challenges, experts believe that patience, communication and proper guidance will be key factors in helping the young batter fulfil his enormous potential.