Karthik Defends Samson’s Place in Indian XI Amid Rising Calls for Sooryavanshi

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has voiced his support for Sanju Samson, urging the Indian team management to persist in backing the seasoned batter despite increasing calls for the teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to be introduced into the playing XI.

Samson has faced scrutiny after registering three consecutive low scores, prompting fans and experts to question his position in India’s T20I side. The debate has intensified with Sooryavanshi’s meteoric rise in recent months, with the 15-year-old continuing to make waves with his fearless batting following a sensational IPL 2026 campaign.

However, Karthik argues it would be premature to replace Samson, particularly given the batter’s match-winning contributions during India’s triumphant ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign.

“Sanju Samson has, once again, struggled. With three innings on the trot, the calls for inclusion of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi are growing, but I believe, given his Player of the Tournament performance in the World Cup, he deserves the team’s support during this lean phase,” Karthik stated on Cricbuzz.

Karthik acknowledged the excitement surrounding Sooryavanshi, whose performances have made him one of the most talked-about young cricketers in the country. However, he stressed that the teenager should not be rushed into the national side and must earn his place through consistent performances.

“The entire cricketing community is eager to see when Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will get his chance. That is understandable,” he explained.

The former wicketkeeper added that while Sooryavanshi possesses immense talent and is likely to enjoy a successful international career, India should continue showing faith in Samson, who has already proven himself on the biggest stage.

“But I still hope they back someone like Sanju Samson, because, under pressure, in the World Cup, a few months ago, he delivered when it mattered most, so we must trust him. Vaibhav needs to earn the right to play in this XI even though he is extremely talented, and I have no doubt he will succeed in international cricket,” he concluded.

Following a whitewash in the Ireland series, Team India faces immense pressure to bounce back against England in the five-match T20I series. The first match was washed out due to rain, while the second encounter at Old Trafford is scheduled for July 04.

Source link