Why is India keeping Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on the bench?
India's decision to keep Sooryavanshi out reflects a deliberate approach to managing a 15-year-old's workload and development.
India have kept 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on the bench for the opening T20I against West Indies in Lucknow despite his recent form. The teenager played in the Asian Games where India defended their gold medal but has not featured in the playing XI since Gautam Gambhir returned as head coach.
Sooryavanshi made his India debut under Gambhir during the tour of England earlier this year. The head coach has made it clear that the teenager will have to wait for opportunities while the settled opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson retain their places.
Sooryavanshi scored 53 runs in two matches at the Asian Games and showed good touch during India's tour of Zimbabwe. Sports psychologist Sujith Somasunder said the teenager must learn to manage the changed expectations that come with his elevated status in Indian cricket.
CricHubb Take
India's decision to keep Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on the bench despite his talent is a deliberate selection signal about protecting a 15-year-old's workload and development path rather than rushing him into a settled T20 setup.