‘How Has He Not Played?’ Former England Captains Slam India’s Decision to Bench Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Despite Record-Breaking IPL

How Has He Not Played?’ Vaughan and Cook Question India’s Selection Calls Over Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

New Delhi: India’s decision to keep teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi out of the playing XI has sparked debate beyond Indian cricketing circles, with former England captains Michael Vaughan and Alastair Cook openly expressing their surprise over the youngster’s continued absence.

The 15-year-old prodigy, who became one of the biggest stories of IPL 2026, is yet to make his international debut despite being included in India’s T20I squad. His omission from the opening matches of the Ireland series, followed by another missed opportunity in the first T20I against England, has left many cricket experts questioning the team’s approach.

Vaughan Wants Answers from India’s Selectors

Speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Michael Vaughan did not hide his disappointment with India’s selection strategy. The former England skipper wondered why a player who dominated the IPL has still not been given an opportunity on the international stage.

Vaughan even suggested that India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar should explain the reasoning behind the decision, asking how a player with Sooryavanshi’s remarkable form continues to watch from the sidelines.

His comments have added fresh momentum to the growing conversation surrounding India’s cautious handling of one of the country’s brightest young talents.

Alastair Cook Joins the Debate

Former England captain Alastair Cook also joined the discussion, though in a lighter tone.

Cook joked that he would happily attend India’s next match as a spectator simply to ensure that the teenage sensation finally gets his long-awaited debut.

While his remark drew laughter, it also reflected the widespread curiosity among cricket fans and experts who believe Sooryavanshi has done enough to earn his place in the playing XI.

A Remarkable IPL Campaign Changed Everything

Sooryavanshi’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary.

The teenager enjoyed a dream run during IPL 2026, finishing the tournament with an astonishing 776 runs while maintaining a breathtaking strike rate of 237.30. His fearless strokeplay, maturity under pressure and ability to dominate world-class bowlers made him one of the biggest discoveries of the season.

His performances quickly earned him a maiden call-up to the Indian T20 squad, raising expectations that his international debut would soon follow.

However, those expectations remain unfulfilled.

Fans Left Waiting in Ireland

The excitement surrounding Sooryavanshi extended well beyond India.

Reports suggested that several supporters purchased tickets for India’s T20I matches in Ireland, hoping to witness the teenager’s first appearance in national colours.

Instead, the youngster remained on the bench for both games, leaving fans disappointed as India chose to stick with its established lineup.

His absence has only increased anticipation for the day he finally steps onto the international stage.

India Backing a Successful Formula

Despite the growing criticism, India’s team management has remained consistent in its explanation.

Head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shreyas Iyer have repeatedly stated that they do not want to disturb the batting unit that successfully guided India to the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup title.

The current top-order combination featuring Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, and Ishan Kishan has delivered consistently, making it difficult for newcomers to break into the side.

According to the management, Sooryavanshi’s opportunity will come, but only when the team believes the timing is right. They have encouraged the youngster to remain patient and continue preparing for his chance.

Pressure Mounts Ahead of Second T20I

While India’s cautious approach is understandable from a team balance perspective, public opinion appears to be shifting.

Many former cricketers and fans argue that a player who has demonstrated exceptional talent and confidence against elite bowlers deserves at least one opportunity, particularly in a bilateral series where squad rotation is common.

The debate has become one of the biggest talking points ahead of India’s second T20I against England.

Should the team management continue backing its World Cup-winning combination, or should it reward one of Indian cricket’s most exciting young prospects with a debut?

Eyes on Saturday’s Clash

India will have another chance to hand Vaibhav Sooryavanshi his first international cap when they take on England in the second match of the five-match T20I series on Saturday.

Whether the teenage sensation finally gets his opportunity remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—the cricketing world will be watching closely.

With respected voices like Michael Vaughan and Alastair Cook questioning India’s selection strategy, expectations surrounding Sooryavanshi’s debut have only grown stronger.

If the youngster eventually gets his chance, it could mark the beginning of another exciting chapter in Indian cricket.