Vaibhav Suryavanshi's bat fails to fire in two matches; will Sanju Samson make a comeback? Major questions raised regarding playing XII
The Indian team's performance on the England tour has been consistently disappointing, and now 15-year-old batsman Vaibhav Suryavanshi has also come into the spotlight. Fans had long awaited his debut in the senior team, but he failed to play a substantial innings in the first two matches.
Vaibhav was dismissed for 14 runs in his debut match, while in the third T20I played in Nottingham, he scored 13 runs off 5 balls. This brief knock did feature two magnificent sixes. Following low scores in two consecutive matches, questions are now being raised about whether the team management rushed into giving Vaibhav a chance in the senior team or if the young batsman will be granted more time.
Vaibhav's aggressive style put pressure on the bowlers
Vaibhav Suryavanshi has not yet produced a big innings in senior team, but his fearless approach on the field was evident. During the third T20I in Nottingham, Vaibhav faced just five balls and scored 13 runs, hitting two impressive sixes in the process.
However, the team needed a substantial innings from him, and he could not stay at the crease for long. After getting out early in two consecutive matches, a debate regarding his performance has begun.
Vaibhav had replaced Sanju Samson in the squad
Vaibhav was included in the squad as a replacement for Sanju Samson. Consequently, with the young batsman failing to play a big innings in two consecutive matches, questions regarding Sanju's return have started to arise. However, current indications suggest that the team management is not in the mood to drop Vaibhav from the playing XI immediately. The youngster might be given a few more matches to prove his talent. In this scenario, Sanju Samson may have to wait for his turn for the time being.
Team India has struggled for a win under Shreyas Iyer's captaincy
The Indian team has yet to taste victory under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer. Before the England tour, India had lost a series 2-0 against Ireland. Vaibhav Suryavanshi did not get a chance to play in that series. Although he did get an opportunity against England, the team's losing streak continued. Following a string of poor results, questions regarding captaincy, team selection, and the batting order have intensified.
Tilak Varma's poor form could pave the way for Samson's return
If the team management retains Vaibhav Suryavanshi as an opener, a spot could open up for Sanju Samson in the middle order. Tilak Varma has consistently failed to make an impact with the bat; consequently, the possibility of a change in the batting order for the upcoming match cannot be ruled out. Sanju is an experienced batsman capable of batting in the middle order if required. Cricket fans are now keenly awaiting the next decision from the selectors and team management.
England post 201 runs and bundled India out for 76
England pushed the Indian team firmly onto the back foot in the third T20 match. Powered by Phil Salt's half-century, the hosts posted a total of 201 for 7. Chasing a massive target, the Indian batting lineup crumbled spectacularly, with the entire team bowled out for just 76 runs in 11.4 overs. India suffered a crushing defeat by a margin of 125 runs. All eyes will now be on the playing XI Team India fields for the next match and whether Vaibhav Suryavanshi gets another opportunity.