Ravi Shastri Backs Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for India Debut, Says Teenager Would Have ‘Taken Their Pants Off’ Against Ireland

Former India coach Ravi Shastri has strongly criticized India’s decision to keep teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on the bench, insisting the youngster should have been given an opportunity during the recent T20I series against Ireland.

Sooryavanshi, who earned his maiden senior India call-up following a sensational IPL 2026 campaign, is yet to make his international debut. Despite being included in the squads for the Ireland and England series, the 15-year-old has remained on the sidelines while India continued with their established opening combination.

Ravi Shastri Questions Team Management’s Decision

Speaking before the first T20I between India and England, Shastri made it clear that he disagreed with the decision to leave Sooryavanshi out of the Ireland series.

According to Shastri, the conditions in Ireland would have perfectly suited the aggressive left-handed batter, who has built a reputation for fearless stroke play and explosive starts.

“He should have played against Ireland. It was a slow and spongy track with a small ground. He would have taken their pants off. He has smashed quality bowlers in the IPL and should not be warming the bench,” Shastri said.

Record-Breaking IPL Season Earned India Call-Up

Sooryavanshi’s rise over the last year has been remarkable. The teenage opener first grabbed headlines by leading India to the Under-19 World Cup title and producing a stunning 175-run knock in the final.

He then followed that success with a historic IPL 2026 campaign, finishing as the tournament’s highest run-scorer with 776 runs and becoming the youngest player ever to win the Orange Cap.

His fearless batting, ability to dominate pace attacks, and maturity beyond his years quickly turned him into one of the most talked-about young cricketers in the world.

‘He Is India’s X-Factor’

Shastri believes Sooryavanshi offers something unique to the Indian batting lineup and could provide the explosive starts that modern T20 cricket demands.

The former India coach highlighted the youngster’s fearless mindset and ability to play without pressure as major strengths.

“He is the X-factor. He has no baggage, no fear, and the exuberance of youth. If he gets going in the first few overs, he can completely change the game and give the middle order a platform to build on,” Shastri explained.

Debut Wait Continues

India’s management has continued to back the experienced opening trio of Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan despite the recent T20I series defeat against Ireland.

As a result, Sooryavanshi remains on the bench, waiting for his first opportunity at the international level.

With four T20Is still remaining in the ongoing England series, the teenager may yet receive a chance to showcase his talent on the biggest stage.

Growing Calls for Sooryavanshi’s Inclusion

Shastri is not alone in calling for the youngster’s inclusion. Former captain Sunil Gavaskar recently warned that delaying Sooryavanshi’s debut could increase expectations and pressure whenever he finally gets his opportunity.

For now, Indian fans continue to wait for the moment when one of the country’s brightest young talents receives his long-awaited debut cap.