Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik believes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi should remain with the national team rather than return to domestic cricket for Bihar, even if he continues to warm the bench. Karthik considers being part of India’s extended squad a legitimate role, as the young batter could be called upon if any of the first-choice top-three batters—Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma or Ishan Kishan—suffer an injury.

Sooryavanshi last represented India at the Asian Games in Japan, where the team included him as an additional batter and played one fewer bowler. Since then, he has missed out on opportunities during the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan and the five-match series against the West Indies, remaining on the sidelines.

Earlier, Sooryavanshi replaced Samson during India’s tour of England in August after the latter was dropped following three disappointing outings. However, head coach Gautam Gambhir later acknowledged that the decision was a mistake, while captain Shreyas Iyer backed the current opening combination, highlighting its importance as a World Cup-winning partnership.

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The situation has sparked debate over whether keeping Sooryavanshi in the squad without regular match time could hinder his development, particularly while India’s domestic season continues. Karthik, however, disagrees with the argument that the teenager should be sent back simply because he is not part of the playing XI.

Speaking on Cricbuzz, Dinesh Karthik explained that allowing every non-playing squad member to return to domestic cricket would create an impractical situation. “If players not playing feel it’s better to play domestic cricket instead of warming the bench, there will only be 11 touring always,” he said.

He also questioned why Sooryavanshi should be treated differently from other reserve players, adding that such a policy would have no logical end. Karthik acknowledged that spending extended periods on the bench might not help Sooryavanshi’s growth, but stressed that being part of a touring squad naturally comes with limited opportunities.

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He expressed hope that the team management had held an honest conversation with the youngster about his role and future prospects. India’s upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand could offer Sooryavanshi an opportunity if circumstances change. For now, his chances of featuring appear limited, with potential openings in the final matches if India secure the series early.