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Sitanshu Kotak Drops Massive Hint on Chances of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Making His Debut in IND vs IRE 2026 T20Is
Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said India will not rush the 15-year-old into the XI, even though a debut would make him the youngest international player.
In Belfast, Team India management is deciding today whether to include 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the playing XI for the opening T20I against Ireland. Captain Shreyas Iyer and head coach Gautam Gambhir will finalize the lineup this evening.
Openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma have formed a productive partnership, creating selection pressure. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak noted the team will not drop players scoring runs just to hand someone an opportunity.
Coach Sitanshu Kotak praised Vaibhav's IPL success against quick bowlers like Jofra Archer, saying "He is an exceptionally talented player." However, Kotak emphasized consistent performances remain the priority over fast-tracking based on hype.
Even if he misses the series opener, the teenager remains part of the squad for upcoming tours. He is expected to receive opportunities in the coming months, including the England tour and the Asian Games.
If selected, Vaibhav would become the youngest player to represent India in international cricket, surpassing the long-standing record held by Sachin Tendulkar. Making his debut would mark a historic milestone for the 15-year-old.
Ahead of the first T20 match against Ireland, there is intense buzz surrounding Vaibhav Suryavanshi's debut. Indian team batting coach Sitanshu Kotak stated that Vaibhav will definitely get a chance, but that a high-performing player will not be dropped simply for the sake of a debut. He clarified that the team management's primary goal is to field the strongest playing eleven.