‘They Did the Right Thing’: Ambati Rayudu Breaks Silence on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Snub After Ireland Defeat

The debate around young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi missing out on his much-anticipated T20I debut for Team India has taken centre stage after India’s shocking 0-2 series loss to Ireland. While fans and several former cricketers questioned the decision, ex-India batter Ambati Rayudu has come out strongly in support of the team management.

The Indian team management faced criticism for not handing the youngster his debut despite the series being seen as an ideal opportunity to test fresh talent. However, Rayudu believes the call was justified and could actually help Sooryavanshi in the long run.

Speaking during a virtual media interaction organised by Sony Sports Network, Rayudu said the dressing room experience itself can be invaluable for a young player.

“I think they did the right thing,” Rayudu said.

He explained that simply being around the senior squad, observing preparations, and understanding the expectations of international cricket would help the youngster grow.

According to Rayudu, spending time on the bench isn’t a setback but rather a crucial learning phase.

He noted that Sooryavanshi would now have a clearer picture of the discipline, pressure, and role clarity required at the highest level, which could make him better prepared whenever his opportunity arrives.

Rayudu also defended the team’s decision to continue backing the existing players, many of whom were part of India’s World Cup-winning squad.

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“The incumbents deserve a go because they have delivered for India. When Vaibhav gets his chance, he will be much more ready,” Rayudu added.

The controversy intensified after India suffered a historic series defeat against Ireland — the first time ever the Men in Blue lost a T20I series to the Irish side. The defeat only fueled criticism against head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team management.

Rayudu was also asked about Gambhir’s team combinations, especially his preference for multiple all-rounders and part-time bowlers in the T20 setup.

The former Chennai Super Kings star defended that strategy too, saying bilateral series are often used to understand combinations ahead of major tournaments.

He stressed that team balance should depend on conditions and opposition, rather than sticking to a rigid formula.

Rayudu explained that such matches are often about assessing possibilities rather than outright experimentation.

With the next T20 assignment around the corner, all eyes will remain on whether Vaibhav Sooryavanshi finally gets his India cap — a moment fans are eagerly waiting for.