Sooryavanshi Snubbed for Afghanistan T20I
Sooryavanshi left out, Samson in. Ex-India star reacts

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the 15-year-old cricket sensation, was surprisingly left out of India's playing XI for the first T20I against Afghanistan. This decision has raised eyebrows, especially considering Sooryavanshi's impressive performance on India's recent tour of Zimbabwe. He was named Player of the Series after India completed a 3-0 T20I series sweep.
Sooryavanshi's form has been consistent, and he also scored runs for East Zone in the Duleep Trophy 2026. However, the team management opted to include Sanju Samson in the playing XI instead. An ex-India star has questioned this decision, stating that Sooryavanshi did not do anything wrong to warrant being left out.
The ex-India star's comments suggest that Sooryavanshi's exclusion was unexpected, given his recent performances. Sooryavanshi's ability to perform under pressure and his impressive stats make a strong case for his inclusion in the team. The decision to leave him out has sparked debate among fans and experts alike.
India's tour of Zimbabwe was a resounding success, with the team winning all three T20I matches. Sooryavanshi was one of the standout performers, showcasing his skills and cementing his position as one of the most promising young players in Indian cricket.
The Duleep Trophy 2026 also saw Sooryavanshi perform well, scoring runs for East Zone. His consistency and ability to adapt to different formats have made him a favorite among fans and experts. The ex-India star's comments have added fuel to the debate, with many questioning the team management's decision to leave Sooryavanshi out.
The first T20I against Afghanistan was a crucial match, and the team management's decision to include Samson over Sooryavanshi has raised questions about the team's strategy. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how the team management responds to the criticism and whether Sooryavanshi will be given a chance to prove himself.
The exclusion of Sooryavanshi has also sparked a debate about the selection process and the criteria used to choose players for the national team. With many young players performing well in domestic cricket, the competition for places in the national team is fierce. The ex-India star's comments have highlighted the need for transparency and consistency in the selection process.
In conclusion, Sooryavanshi's exclusion from the playing XI for the first T20I against Afghanistan has raised eyebrows, and the ex-India star's comments have added to the debate. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how the team management responds to the criticism and whether Sooryavanshi will be given a chance to prove himself.
The significance of this decision extends beyond the current series, as it highlights the challenges faced by young players in breaking into the national team. With the Indian cricket team having a rich pool of talent, the competition for places is intense. The debate surrounding Sooryavanshi's exclusion will continue, and it will be interesting to see how the team management navigates this situation.
Frequently asked questions
Why was Sooryavanshi left out of India's playing XI?
The reason for Sooryavanshi's exclusion is not explicitly stated, but an ex-India star has questioned the decision to include Samson over him.
What were Sooryavanshi's recent performances like?
Sooryavanshi was named Player of the Series in India's recent tour of Zimbabwe and also scored runs for East Zone in the Duleep Trophy 2026.