Sitanshu Kotak warns against hype around Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Sitanshu Kotak defended India's decision to keep Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on the bench, saying hype around the 15-year-old harms him and other openers.
India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said excessive pressure on 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is unfair to the teenager and other openers performing in the side. Kotak told reporters ahead of the second T20I that social media expectations should not dictate selection decisions.
Sooryavanshi remains on the bench for the series against New Zealand. Ishan Kishan is doubtful for the second match with a groin injury, but Kotak said team management would not make changes based on external clamour.
India lead the five-match series 1-0 after Thursday's four-wicket win in Christchurch.
CricHubb Take
India's refusal to rush Sooryavanshi shows a rare willingness to protect a young player from premature exposure.