Jayasuriya Backs Sooryavanshi Amid Bench Snub

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greatest left-handed batters, but it is Sri Lankan legend Sanath Jayasuriya whose game the young Indian opener may most closely echo. Both are aggressive, left-handed openers known for taking the attack to bowlers from the very first over — and by some assessments, Sooryavanshi’s current strike rate already rivals what Jayasuriya produced at a similar stage of his career.

A Rocky Few Months

Since his international debut against England in June, followed by an outing against Zimbabwe, Sooryavanshi’s journey has been far from smooth. He was left out entirely during India’s most recent home T20I series, a decision head coach Gautam Gambhir defended plainly, noting that senior players Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma currently hold a clear edge over the teenager for a place in the XI.

Jayasuriya’s Case for Patience

Despite the setback, Jayasuriya has publicly urged the Indian team management to resist the temptation to overcoach or rush the youngster, arguing that giving Sooryavanshi room to develop naturally could yield results beyond what anyone currently expects. It’s a sentiment echoed elsewhere too — Sachin Tendulkar has previously backed the teenager’s potential specifically in the Test format, underlining just how highly Sooryavanshi’s ceiling is regarded within the game.

Between a standout U-19 World Cup campaign, strong showings in India A fixtures, and eye-catching performances in the IPL, Sooryavanshi has already built a reputation as a once-in-a-generation prospect. Whether Jayasuriya’s advice reaches — and influences — India’s team management remains to be seen, but for now, the teenager’s path back into the XI will likely run through patience, competition, and continued domestic performances.