Gambhir explained to Vaibhav Suryavanshi why he has to wait for an opportunity
Gambhir said he explained to Suryavanshi that even players in great form sometimes have to wait for their opportunity. He also made it clear why the team management is reluctant to break an opening combination that has been performing consistently for a long period.
xtraTime Web Desk
India’s five-match T20I series against West Indies begins on Tuesday, and ahead of the opening game, the old debate has once again resurfaced — will teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi get a chance, or will India continue with their regular opening pair of Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma?
Despite being in excellent form, Suryavanshi has once again found himself waiting for an opportunity. India head coach Gautam Gambhir has now opened up on the issue and revealed that he has spoken to the youngster about why he is yet to get his chance.
Gambhir said he explained to Suryavanshi that even players in great form sometimes have to wait for their opportunity. He also made it clear why the team management is reluctant to break an opening combination that has been performing consistently for a long period.
The India coach admitted that the situation is a new experience for him as well.
Suryavanshi enjoyed a successful run at the Asian Games under coach VVS Laxman, while Sanju Samson failed to make a significant impact with the bat. His performances have therefore strengthened the argument for giving the teenage batter a chance in the T20I side.
However, Gambhir pointed out that if Suryavanshi is brought into the playing XI, either Abhishek Sharma or Sanju Samson would have to make way. Having that conversation with a player who has been performing consistently is not an easy task.
Gambhir further explained that the team cannot suddenly disregard players who have been delivering over the last two years. According to him, only after a player goes through a sustained period of poor form — perhaps three or four matches — can the team consider giving an opportunity to a talented player who is waiting in the wings.
The India coach also made it clear that decisions regarding the playing XI will not be influenced by outside opinions or social media discussions. The team management, rather than public pressure, will decide when the right time comes for Suryavanshi to make his India debut.