Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s selection for the national team but questioned whether the teenager was introduced to international cricket earlier than necessary due to growing public and social media pressure.
The 15-year-old batter made his T20I debut during India’s series against England and featured in three matches, scoring 14, 13 and 15 before being left out of the fifth and final game in Southampton.
‘He Is an Incredible Player’
Speaking on his YouTube channel Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin praised Sooryavanshi’s talent and said he would also have selected the youngster. However, he stressed that young cricketers should be given adequate time to develop rather than being rushed into international cricket.
“I am still saying Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is an incredible player. If I were a selector, I would have picked him too. But let him take his time. Overseas tours should be a learning experience where young players understand the conditions and adapt to international cricket,” Ashwin said.
Questions Over Selection Decisions
Sooryavanshi was initially expected to debut during the Ireland series, but the team management continued with Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma. After Samson struggled with the bat and calls for Sooryavanshi’s inclusion intensified, the teenager was handed his debut against England.
Ashwin questioned whether outside opinions should influence team selection.
“There was a time when people on social media demanded that I should play. But if the team management decided otherwise, it was because they believed it was the right combination. Can you pick teams by succumbing to social media pressure?” he said.
Ashwin Reflects on His Own Experience
The veteran off-spinner recalled missing out on matches despite being in strong form, saying he accepted the decisions because they were made based on the team’s requirements.
“There were occasions when I felt I deserved to play, but the captain and coach explained their combination. It is the team’s decision. Team management should not allow outside noise to influence selection. If external pressure affects the management, imagine how much pressure it creates for the players,” Ashwin added.
Sooryavanshi Awaits Another Opportunity
India endured disappointing T20I series defeats against Ireland and England, with the young batter unable to make a significant impact during his debut appearances.
Sooryavanshi has retained his place in India’s squad for the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe, where he could receive another opportunity to prove himself on the international stage.
