Former India cricketer recommends Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for ODI side
Sooryavanshi’s ODI Potential and Engineer’s Recommendation
Former India cricketer Farokh Engineer has put forward a recommendation to selectors, suggesting that Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a teen sensation, be included in the India ODI side as an opener alongside Rohit Sharma. This recommendation comes with a view towards the 2027 World Cup. Engineer believes that Shubman Gill, currently opening with Sharma, could bat at number four to strengthen the middle order, creating a robust batting lineup for India.
Engineer highlighted Sooryavanshi’s recent performance in the T20I series against Zimbabwe, where he was named Player of the Series. During this series, Sooryavanshi scored 151 runs, including two fifties, at a strike rate of 196.10. Engineer views these performances as evidence of Sooryavanshi’s readiness for the 50-over format. He described Sooryavanshi as a “genius” and a high-quality match-winner, someone the team should continue to support for future success.
The former India wicketkeeper-batter suggested that a left-right batting combination would be ideal in ODIs. If Rohit Sharma continues to play, Engineer believes he should open with Sooryavanshi. According to Engineer, a batsman like Sooryavanshi is more effective as an opener because he can find larger gaps in the field. He also proposed that Virat Kohli could bat at number three, with Gill at number four, to establish a solid batting order.
Engineer expressed that there should not be a significant distinction between ODI and T20 formats when evaluating a player’s potential, stating that a half-volley remains a half-volley regardless of the format. He noted that Sooryavanshi has been consistently scoring runs and possesses the confidence required to open the innings. Engineer believes that Sooryavanshi’s ability to provide a strong start allows other players time to consolidate the innings and contribute to a substantial total.
Pathan’s View on Sooryavanshi’s Impact and Competition
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has also commented on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s rise, suggesting that the young talent will make it challenging for any displaced player to regain their spot in the team. Pathan’s remarks followed Sooryavanshi’s performances in the T20I series against Zimbabwe, which saw India secure a 3-0 victory. Sooryavanshi, a 15-year-old, was a key performer in the series with his batting.
Pathan posted on X (formerly Twitter), indicating his high regard for Sooryavanshi’s talent. He stated that whoever’s spot the young player takes, they will find it difficult to return. This sentiment highlights the intense competition Sooryavanshi has introduced into India’s T20I batting order, putting pressure on established players.
The emergence of Sooryavanshi has intensified the competition among India’s explosive openers. Players like Abhishek Sharma, known for his aggressive opening style, face increased pressure due to his recent inconsistent form. Similarly, the position of Sanju Samson is also under scrutiny, despite his experience, as more players vie for limited batting slots.
Pathan’s comments suggest that only consistent performances will matter in India’s competitive batting lineup. While Abhishek Sharma offers the additional asset of left-arm spin bowling and the ability to change the game in the powerplay, Samson faces tough competition from other wicketkeepers like Ishan Kishan, who can bat in the middle order. Sooryavanshi’s success as a top-order batsman adds another layer of challenge for Samson.
The strong performances by Sooryavanshi could make it difficult for India’s selectors to overlook him as the team progresses towards the next T20 World Cup cycle. If Samson is unable to consistently deliver match-winning performances, it may become harder for him to secure a place in the team given Sooryavanshi’s ascent. While India has considerable depth, Sooryavanshi’s next challenge will be to maintain his performance against stronger opposition.
Source: m.rediff.com
Priya Menon 