Gautam Gambhir Explains Why Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Must Wait Behind Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma
India head coach Gautam Gambhir has explained why Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will have to wait for his next opportunity in the T20I team, despite the teenager's impressive performances in recent months.
The 15-year-old batter was not included in India's playing XI during the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. Instead, Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma continued as India's opening combination, with both players making a significant impact during the series.
Gautam Gambhir Wants Vaibhav Sooryavanshi To Be Patient
Gambhir acknowledged Sooryavanshi's talent but stressed that international cricket requires patience and consistent performances over a longer period.
The India coach explained that players who have performed consistently for two or three years will naturally be ahead of someone who has only recently entered the international setup. He also made it clear that this applies regardless of a player's age.
Sooryavanshi made his India debut against England earlier in 2026 and subsequently produced an impressive run of form against Zimbabwe. However, he was unable to break into the XI during the Afghanistan series as India continued with Samson and Abhishek at the top.
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Sanju Samson And Abhishek Sharma Continue To Deliver
The decision to retain Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma was also supported by their performances against Afghanistan.
According to the ICC, the pair finished as the leading run-scorers across the three-match series. Abhishek was particularly impressive in the final T20I, smashing the third-fastest century in men's T20I cricket during India's 127-run victory.
For Gambhir, maintaining a successful combination remains important. The coach previously backed the opening partnership that helped India win the 2026 T20 World Cup, indicating that a few disappointing performances should not automatically lead to a complete change in personnel.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Will Get A Longer Run
Gambhir has also offered encouragement to Sooryavanshi, suggesting that once the youngster receives another opportunity, India intends to give him an extended run rather than judging him on just one or two matches.
Sooryavanshi remains part of India's plans and has been included in the squad for the upcoming Asian Games campaign. He has also been selected for India's T20I series against the West Indies beginning in October.
The situation highlights the depth of India's T20 batting options. While Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's future remains closely watched, Gambhir's message is clear: consistent performances and patience will determine when the teenage star gets his next opportunity.
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