Farokh Engineer suggests Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for India’s ODI side
Sooryavanshi’s Impact on India’s Batting Order
Former India cricketer Farokh Engineer has advocated for the inclusion of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in India’s ODI squad. Engineer suggests that the young talent should open alongside Rohit Sharma, with an eye on the 2027 World Cup. He believes this move would strengthen the batting lineup considerably.
Engineer’s recommendation includes shifting current ODI captain Shubman Gill to bat at number four. This strategic change, according to Engineer, would provide more depth to the middle order. He described Gill as a “class player” and currently the best batsman in the team, making him suitable for the number four position.
The former wicketkeeper-batter highlighted the benefit of a left-right batting combination in ODIs. If Rohit Sharma continues to play, opening with Sooryavanshi would create an ideal partnership. Engineer noted that a batsman like Sooryavanshi, who finds larger gaps in the field, is particularly effective as an opener. He also suggested that Virat Kohli could bat at number three, further solidifying the batting order.
Performance and Potential
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi recently earned the Player of the Series award in the three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe. During this series, he scored 151 runs, including two fifties, at a strike rate of 196.10. Engineer feels these performances demonstrate his readiness for the 50-over format.
Engineer dismissed the notion of significant differences between ODI and T20 cricket, stating that a good delivery remains a good delivery regardless of the format. He emphasized that Sooryavanshi has consistently scored runs and possesses the confidence to open the innings. Engineer believes that Sooryavanshi is a match-winner who will contribute more to victories than losses for the team. His ability to provide a strong start would allow other players time to build and consolidate the innings, leading to higher team totals.
The 88-year-old Engineer praised Sooryavanshi’s talent, describing him as a “genius” and a high-quality match-winner. He urged the Indian team to continue supporting Sooryavanshi, stating that anything slightly short of length in his hitting zone is likely to result in a six. Engineer noted that Sooryavanshi has learned from his mistakes and has developed the ability to control his aggression. He cautioned against over-coaching the young player, comparing his natural talent to that of Viv Richards, whom he considered the best batsman he had ever seen.
Increased Competition in India’s Squad
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan also commented on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s rise, suggesting that the young player’s emergence will make it challenging for any displaced player to regain their spot. Pathan’s remarks came after Sooryavanshi’s match-winning performances in the T20I series against Zimbabwe, which contributed to India’s 3-0 victory.
Sooryavanshi’s impressive form has intensified competition for batting positions, particularly at the top of India’s T20I order. Pathan posted on X (formerly Twitter) that whoever’s spot this young talent takes, he will not let them come back. This highlights the high regard for Sooryavanshi’s ability to dominate the Zimbabwe bowling attack throughout the series, creating a selection dilemma for India’s already packed batting lineup.
The arrival of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has put pressure on established players like Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson. While Abhishek Sharma is known as an explosive T20 opener, his recent inconsistent form means he cannot afford prolonged periods without scoring runs. Similarly, Sanju Samson’s place in the squad is under scrutiny due to increased competition for batting slots, despite his experience.
According to one report, Sanju Samson appears to be under more pressure than Abhishek Sharma. Abhishek Sharma offers the additional asset of left-arm spin bowling, which makes him valuable in the T20 format, and his ability to change the game in the powerplay helps him maintain his position despite occasional lean spells. However, Samson faces tough competition, including from wicketkeepers like Ishan Kishan who can bat in the middle order. The success of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as a top-order batsman further threatens Samson’s place. If Samson cannot consistently deliver match-winning performances, it may become more difficult for him to secure a spot in the team due to Sooryavanshi’s impact.
India possesses considerable depth in its squad, and the competition for places is ongoing. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has made a significant statement with his performances, and the focus will now be on whether he can maintain this level against more challenging opposition.
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Source: m.rediff.com
