Despite growing calls for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s international debut, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has urged fans and experts to trust the Indian team management’s decision-making process. Shukla defended captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir, stating that the teenage batting sensation will receive his opportunity when the timing is right.

The 15-year-old earned his maiden India call-up after a sensational IPL 2026 campaign, where he amassed 776 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 237.30. His fearless batting made him one of the biggest breakout stars of the tournament and quickly sparked demands for an immediate place in India’s T20I playing XI.

However, Sooryavanshi has remained on the sidelines during the Ireland series and the rain-affected opening T20I against England, with the management continuing to back the established top order of Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan.

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The decision has divided opinion, with several former cricketers questioning why one of India’s brightest young talents is yet to make his debut. However, Shukla believes the criticism directed at the team management is unwarranted, insisting that selection calls should be left to those inside the dressing room.

“We are also of the view that Vaibhav is an extremely talented player, and he proved his ability during the IPL. I have seen several comments criticizing the team management and coaches, but the final decision rests with the captain and coach. They understand the team’s requirements and will certainly hand him his debut when the right opportunity comes,” Rajeev Shukla told Times Now.

The BCCI vice-president further emphasised that fans should respect the leadership group’s judgment rather than question every selection decision. According to Shukla, the coaching staff and captain have a clearer understanding of team balance, player roles, and match situations than anyone outside the setup.

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While the wait for Sooryavanshi’s India debut continues, expectations remain sky-high. With four matches still left in the England T20I series, the teenage prodigy could yet get his long-awaited chance to showcase the fearless batting that made him the biggest sensation of IPL 2026.