In a series of interesting events, the BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla has backed the Indian team management's decision of not handing debut cap to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, saying he backs the Men in Blue to give the rising young opener his international debut at the right moment.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's story with the Indian team so far
Despite having a record-breaking IPL 2026 campaign which made him earn maiden India call-up, Vaibhav is still waiting for his International debut. Sooryavanshi was picked for the T20I series against Ireland and England but haven't played a single game for the Men in Blue so far. It was expected that he could be given a chance in the assignment against Ireland, as they were a relatively weaker opponent but it did not turn out to be true.
After enduring a 2-0 series loss against the Irish team, fans called out for Sooryavanshi's debut in the series against England but India went with their same opening duo of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson in the first T20I against the Three Lions which got abandoned due to rain.
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Rajeev Shukla opens up on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi fiasco
In a conversation with Times Now, Rajeev Shukla revealed that the board considers Sooryavanshi as one of the most talented young players currently, as he proved his worth in the IPL 2026 season. While opening up on Sooryavanshi not getting his international squad despite him travelling with the Indian team, Shukla claimed that the team management is looking for a perfect occasion to give him his chance, as they are authorised to take final decision on the team combinations.
"We are also of the view that he is a very talented player, and he showcased that during the IPL. I have seen several comments against the team management and the coaches, but I want to make it very clear that the coach and captain will take the final decision. They are looking at the situation, and whenever the right opportunity arises, they will definitely give him his chance," said Shukla.
How Vaibhav Sooryavanshi performed in IPL 2026?
The teenage sensation from Bihar's Samastipur, witnessed a historic individual campaign for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2026. In 16 games, Vaibhav managed to amass 776 runs at an average of 48.50 at a staggering strike rate of 237.30. The left-handed opener recorded four half-centuries and one hundred in the 2026 edition. Notably, he also won the Orange Cap award in the season.