BCCI Defends Gambhir, Iyer Over Sooryavanshi’s Delayed Debut

BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla has come out in support of head coach Gautam Gambhir and T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, pushing back against criticism over the delay in handing Vaibhav Sooryavanshi his international debut. The 15-year-old batting sensation had been left out of India’s XI for the two-match series against Ireland and the series opener against England, sparking widespread debate on social media about whether he was being overlooked unfairly.

Shukla Rejects Claims of Unfair Treatment

Speaking after Sooryavanshi’s eventual debut in the second T20I against England, Shukla dismissed suggestions that the board or team management had acted unjustly. He said the BCCI does not treat any player unfairly and that those who merit selection eventually get their opportunity, adding that both the coach and captain had faced unwarranted criticism despite doing nothing wrong. Shukla noted he had previously stated that Sooryavanshi would be given his chance once the team management felt the timing was right, and expressed confidence that the youngster would continue to grow into a strong performer for India.

A Historic Debut Despite the Loss

Sooryavanshi’s introduction to international cricket came at the expense of Sanju Samson, who had struggled for form in the preceding matches. The Bihar-born prodigy made an immediate impact, striking two sixes on his way to 14 runs off just 10 balls before being stumped off Will Jacks’ bowling. In doing so, he became the youngest player ever to represent India internationally, at 15 years and 99 days, surpassing the previous records held by Shafali Verma and Sachin Tendulkar. Despite the milestone, India could not capitalize on the moment, as England successfully chased down a target of 191 runs to move 1-0 ahead in the five-match T20I series.