Ex-cricketers urge India to rethink Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's place in T20 side

What's new

India dropped young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi from the fourth T20I against New Zealand. The move came when wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan returned to the side after recovering. Two former cricketers have since commented on the decision. Times of India reported that Dinesh Karthik said India could rest Abhishek Sharma to make room for Sooryavanshi. Times of India also reported that Aakash Chopra wanted the team to be open about where Sooryavanshi stands. NDTV Sports reported Chopra's comments as well, and said he suggested Sooryavanshi play first-class cricket instead.

Why it matters

For cricket fans in India, the debate is about how selectors use young talent. Sooryavanshi had performed well earlier, so his exit raises questions about his role in the squad. The last T20I of the series is seen as a chance to test new combinations.

What others say

Times of India gave Karthik's view that Sanju Samson's recent form has dipped, which makes team balance important. NDTV Sports focused on Chopra's idea that Sooryavanshi should gain experience in domestic cricket. The outlets describe the same decision but frame the advice differently.

What we don't know yet

The sources do not say whether the team management has responded to these comments. It is also unclear whether Sooryavanshi will play in the final T20I.