India head coach Gautam Gambhir has advised 15-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to exercise patience after the teenager was omitted from the squad for the recently concluded three-match Twenty20 series against Afghanistan.
Despite being the leading run-scorer at this year’s Indian Premier League, Sooryavanshi remained on the sidelines as India swept the series. Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson were selected to open the batting, with Abhishek contributing to a dominant 127-run victory in New Delhi on Thursday by scoring the third-fastest century in T20 international history.
Sooryavanshi made his international debut against England in July but struggled to make an impact during a series where the hosts prevailed. He later recorded two fifties against Zimbabwe in Harare at the end of the month but has not featured for India since.
Addressing the media following the match, Gambhir emphasized that seniority and consistent performance dictate selection, regardless of age. “Whether you’re a 15-year-old or a 30-year-old, when you have to wait for your opportunity, you have to wait for your opportunity,” Gambhir stated. “We know the kind of talent he has and what he can do, but someone who has been performing for the last two to three years will always be ahead of someone who has just entered the team.”
The young batter is set to join the national camp for India’s campaign at the Asian Games in Nagoya. The team will play a single T20 match against host nation Japan on Tuesday, ahead of the quarterfinals scheduled for September 28.
Gambhir expressed confidence that Sooryavanshi will secure a longer stint in the team once he earns his place. “Whenever he gets his run, he will get a longer run as well… We want competition and talent in the dressing room,” the coach added.
Solid reasoning from the coach. Consistency beats potential every time in international cricket. He will get his chance soon enough.
I remember feeling that sting when I was omitted as a junior. Good that Gambhir is mentoring him with clear expectations.
But will ‘experienced’ actually win tournaments? Cricket needs fresh blood. Why not give Abhishek a rest and test Sooryavanshi?
Fifteen and already an IPL top scorer! The pressure on this kid must be immense. Hopefully, the selectors handle him gently.
Gambhir is right. Patience is crucial; let him enjoy the Asian Games experience without undue pressure.