Former Chief Selector of India Ravi Shastri he questioned Team Indiathe decision to keep teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi out of the playing XI despite including him in the squads for the Ireland and England T20 series. The 15-year-old batting prodigy, who has generated considerable excitement after his impressive performances in the IPLis yet to make his international debut after missing all of Ireland’s matches and the opening T20I against England.Speaking during the live telecast of the first India-England T20I, Shastri said the youngster should have been given a chance during the Ireland series, especially given the conditions. He believes that Vaibhav has already proved his mettle against the top bowlers and it shouldn’t be much longer. “He should have played in Ireland. It’s such a slow and spongy track; he would have hit it on the roof because it was a small pitch. He had to play there. I don’t know if he will play here. I’m not sure if he will play against him, but get him as soon as you can. He has beaten everyone in the IPL. Which fast bowler has he left? You make him sit on the bench to warm him up,” Shastri said.
‘He is the X factor’
Shastri further emphasized that Vaibhav’s fearlessness and youthful approach could provide India with a huge advantage at the top of the order. According to the former coach, the teenager’s aggressive batting style can help post strong totals and create momentum for the middle order.“We should play him because he is an X-factor. He has no baggage. He is 15 years old and has the exuberance of youth. He has no fear. If he plays 2-3 overs at the beginning, he gives such a start that the middle order can use. “So we have to find a place for him, the sooner the better,” Shastri added.Vaibhav was again left out of India’s playing XI for the first T20I against England, which was eventually called off due to rain. It remains to be seen whether the team management will allow the teenager to make his long-awaited international debut in the remaining matches of the series.
