Sunil Gavaskar Questions Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Shot Selection After T20I Debut
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has questioned Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s dismissal during his T20I debut against England, saying the young batter fell into the bowler’s trap by attempting a shot that doesn’t suit his natural game.
Vaibhav made his international debut in the second T20I against England at Manchester but could only score 14 runs before being stumped.
Vaibhav’s Promising Start Ends Early
The young Bihar batter looked confident during his short stay at the crease, smashing two sixes and displaying his fearless approach.
However, his innings came to an abrupt end in the fifth over when Will Jacks bowled a delivery outside the off stump.
Trying to play an aggressive cut shot after stepping out of the crease, Vaibhav completely missed the ball, allowing wicketkeeper Jos Buttler to complete an easy stumping.
Gavaskar Explains What Went Wrong
Speaking during commentary, Sunil Gavaskar felt Vaibhav made a poor tactical decision.
According to the batting legend:
- The youngster unnecessarily left his crease.
- He was trapped by Will Jacks’ bowling.
- The cut shot wasn’t his natural scoring option.
- His strongest stroke is the cover drive.
Gavaskar remarked that he never expected Vaibhav to attempt that particular shot in such a situation.
Gavaskar Had Backed Vaibhav Before the Match
Interestingly, before the match began, Gavaskar had praised the teenager and expressed confidence in his fearless batting style.
He said the entire country was eager to see the youngster succeed and expected him to play attacking cricket from the very first ball.
Replaces Sanju Samson in Playing XI
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was included in India’s playing XI in place of Sanju Samson.
Despite the disappointing debut, reports suggest the team management remains confident in the youngster and is likely to retain him for the third T20I.
Third T20I on July 7
India and England will meet again in the third T20I on July 7 at Trent Bridge.
Vaibhav is expected to get another opportunity to prove himself after showing glimpses of his talent in Manchester.
