Former India batter Share Rayudu came out in support of: Sanju Samson following the wicketkeeper-batter’s exclusion from India’s playing XI for the second T20I against England, urged fans not to forget the match-winning role he played in India’s recent T20 World Cup victory. India made a big change at Old Trafford by handing 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi his senior international debut in place of Samson. While the move created widespread excitement, Rayudu felt it was important to acknowledge the contribution of the player who made the move. Bring X, the former Chennai Super Kings: The batter congratulated Sooryavanshi on reaching the international stage but stressed that Samson’s recent achievements should not be forgotten.
Rayudu Post:
“Let’s spare a thought for Sanju Samson… very happy to see Vaibhav: making his debut, and it deserves a celebration, but don’t forget that Sanju was the man of the tournament in the T20 World Cup just 3 T20 games ago,” Rayudu wrote to X. Samson lost his place after a disappointing outing in the opening T20I against England, where he managed just one run from seven deliveries. With India looking to revamp their batting order, the selectors have turned to the highly-rated Sooryavanshi, who is widely regarded as one of the country’s brightest young batting talents. Although Rayudu embraced the youngster’s inclusion, he also expressed confidence that Samson would bounce back from the loss. “I just hope he comes back strong and also wish Vaibhav a long and destructive career,” Rayudu added. Samson’s absence has been one of the biggest talking points of the series, especially considering his incredible performances during India’s successful T20 World Cup campaign. The wicketkeeper-batter was named the Player of the Tournament after playing a decisive role in India’s title win, making his inclusion after a low score a topic of debate among fans and former cricketers. Sooryavanshi’s debut innings lasted just 10 balls, but the 15-year-old still offered glimpses of his immense talent. He scored 14 runs, hitting two sixes before falling short, showing the fearless approach that earned him his maiden India call-up. Despite the teenager’s historic debut, India could not get the win. England chased down 191 with four wickets to spare to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series. With the opening game ending in a washout, England now need just two more wins to seal the series, while India need to win each of the remaining three games to get back into contention.