Former India wicketkeeper-batter Farokh Engineer has suggested a change in the team’s batting order, advocating for teenage player Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to open alongside Rohit Sharma. Engineer believes that Shubman Gill, currently an opener, should move to the number four position, with Virat Kohli batting at number three.
Engineer’s proposal aims to create an ideal left-right batting combination at the top of the order for One Day International (ODI) cricket. He highlighted that Sooryavanshi, a left-handed batter, could provide balance with the right-handed Sharma. According to Engineer, Sooryavanshi’s ability to find gaps in the field makes him well-suited for an opening role.
Sooryavanshi’s Recent Performances and Potential
The suggestion follows Sooryavanshi’s performance in a recent T20I series against Zimbabwe, where he was the leading run-scorer with 151 runs, including two half-centuries. He was also named Player of the Series as India secured a 3-0 clean sweep. Engineer views these performances as sufficient to integrate the teenager into India’s ODI plans, noting that a half-volley remains a half-volley regardless of the format.
Sooryavanshi had previously struggled during India’s T20I tour of England, but his adaptability was evident in the Zimbabwe series. He scored a rapid half-century in the series opener and followed it with a measured 81 runs off 49 balls in the final T20I on a slower Harare surface. Engineer cautioned against over-coaching Sooryavanshi, emphasizing the importance of preserving his natural game.
Engineer believes that Sooryavanshi’s fearless approach and match-winning capabilities make him a valuable asset for India, especially with the 2027 ODI World Cup approaching. He stated that Sooryavanshi would win more matches for the team than lose them, providing a strong start that allows other players to consolidate the innings and build large scores.
Alternative Views on Fast-Tracking Sooryavanshi
While Engineer supports fast-tracking Sooryavanshi, other perspectives suggest caution. Former cricket administrator Makarand Waingankar has also urged the BCCI and the Indian team management to consider Sooryavanshi for the ODI setup, allowing him ample preparation time for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Waingankar compared Sooryavanshi to Sanath Jayasuriya, referencing his impact in the 1996 World Cup.
Sooryavanshi gained attention after scoring his maiden IPL century for Rajasthan Royals in 2025 and later became the youngest player in IPL history to win the Orange Cap in his second season with the team. He made his India debut against England during a UK tour, though he did not make a significant impact in those matches.
Despite his recent success, some argue that fast-tracking Sooryavanshi to the ODI team might be premature. One reason cited is the current stability of India’s ODI opening pair, which includes Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma. Sharma’s recent century at Lord’s in the final ODI of the England series has reinforced his position.
Another point of view is that Yashasvi Jaiswal should be prioritized as a long-term replacement for Sharma in the opening slot. Jaiswal has performed well in the 50-over format, including scoring a century in a match against Afghanistan.
Concerns also exist regarding Sooryavanshi’s experience in longer formats. He has not played extensively in domestic ODI or Test matches, such as the Duleep Trophy and Ranji Trophy. It is suggested that he needs to prove his ability to bat for longer periods at the domestic level before being rushed into international ODI cricket. Sooryavanshi has only played seven international T20I matches for India against England and Zimbabwe.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
