Former India cricketer suggests Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to open for ODIs with Rohit Sharma

By Rohan Gupta — 27 July 2026 — 3 min read

Call for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to Open

Former India cricketer Farokh Engineer has advocated for the inclusion of teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi into the India ODI squad as an opener. Engineer suggests that Sooryavanshi should partner with Rohit Sharma at the top of the order, particularly in preparation for the 2027 World Cup. This proposal would involve a strategic reshuffle, with current opener Shubman Gill moving to the number four batting position.

Engineer believes that this adjustment would provide more strength to the middle order. He described Gill as a “class player” and currently the “best batsman in the team,” suggesting that Gill’s skills would be well-suited for the number four spot. The former wicketkeeper-batsman emphasized the benefit of a left-right batting combination at the top, which Sooryavanshi opening with Rohit Sharma would provide.

According to Engineer, Sooryavanshi’s aggressive style makes him an ideal opener, as he is adept at finding larger gaps in the field. He envisions a batting lineup where Virat Kohli bats at third, followed by Gill at fourth, creating a robust batting order for the team. Engineer highlighted that Sooryavanshi’s ability to get quick starts could allow other players more time to build and consolidate the innings, leading to higher scores.

Sooryavanshi’s Recent Performance and Potential

Sooryavanshi recently earned the Player of the Series award in a three-match series against Zimbabwe. During this series, he scored 151 runs, including two fifties. One of these half-centuries was an impressive 81 runs off 49 balls on a challenging pitch at the Harare Sports Club. These performances have fueled discussions about his potential promotion to India’s 50-over side.

Engineer expressed confidence that the 15-year-old has demonstrated sufficient merit for a place in the ODI format. He noted that there should not be a significant distinction between ODI and T20 cricket, stating, “for me, a half-volley is a half-volley.” Engineer believes Sooryavanshi has consistently scored runs and possesses the confidence required to open the innings in ODIs.

While acknowledging some areas for improvement, such as discomfort against short-pitched bowling and adapting to foreign conditions, Engineer remains convinced of Sooryavanshi’s suitability for the 50-overs format. He stressed that Sooryavanshi’s aggressive approach would lead to more match victories than losses for the team. Engineer, who played 46 Tests and five ODIs for India between 1961 and 1975, is confident that Sooryavanshi will be a valuable asset to the Indian team.

Guidance for the Young Talent

Engineer also offered advice on how the team management should handle Sooryavanshi, urging them not to “over-coach” him. He compared Sooryavanshi’s natural talent to that of West Indies legend Viv Richards, whom he considers the best batsman he has ever seen play. Engineer believes that Sooryavanshi is a “genius” and should be allowed to play his natural game, rather than being constrained by outdated coaching manuals.

He noted that anything slightly short of length in Sooryavanshi’s hitting arc is likely to result in a six. Engineer acknowledged that Sooryavanshi has learned from his mistakes and has adapted his game, but he emphasized the importance of preserving his unique style. He concluded that perseverance with Sooryavanshi would make him a tremendous asset for India, especially as the team builds towards the 2027 World Cup.

Engineer’s recommendations highlight a strategic vision for India’s ODI squad, focusing on a dynamic opening partnership and a strengthened middle order in preparation for future international tournaments.

Source: newindianexpress.com