Sooryavanshi would take off his pants: Shastri’s blunt verdict goes viral

Ravi Shastri has never held back and the former India head coach was candid as he passionately advocated for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s international debut.

Sooryavanshi earned India’s first call-up to tour Ireland and England after a remarkable run in age-group cricket and the IPL. But while many expected the teenager to get an opportunity in Ireland, the team’s leadership has been held at the top of the order by Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma in all three matches, with Ishan Kishan completing the top three.

15-year-old boy in waiting: What exactly is India’s plan for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi?

Shastri believes India missed a perfect chance to unleash one of the country’s most exciting batting prospects. Speaking on Sony Sports Network ahead of the first T20I against England, the former India coach said Sooryavanshi would make light work of the Irish attack.

“Arrey, woh khelna chahiye tha yaar (He should have played against Ireland). It was such a slow and spongy track. He would have smacked them on the terrace, it was such a small ground. He would have taken their pants off. He should have played there for sure. Now I am not sure if he will play soon in England. I am not sure but he gave it to him but he gave it to him. IPL, which fast bowler did he spare?

Shastri’s remarks came after India suffered a surprise 0-2 series defeat to Ireland, the hosts’ first bilateral series win over the three-time world champions. The result only reinforced his belief that India should have trusted the teenager.

The former India coach also explained why he believes Sooryavanshi is ready for international cricket.

“He’s an X-factor, he’s got no baggage. He’s only 15, he’s got the exuberance of youth. He’s fearless and if he gets going in the first 2-3 overs, he’ll give you the kind of start the middle order can use. You’re going to have to make room for him.”

Sooryavanshi’s wait for a senior India debut continued on Wednesday after he was again left out of the playing XI for the opening T20I against England at Chester-le-Street.

The Indian think-tank has continued to back the World Cup-winning top order of Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, leaving no place for the teenager despite growing calls for his inclusion.

The left-hander has made few mistakes over the past year. He starred in India’s U19 World Cup title-winning campaign, smashing 175 in the final before producing a stunning IPL 2026 season. He finished with 776 runs to win the Orange Cap, becoming the youngest player to top the tournament’s run charts.

India still have four T20Is left on their tour of England, giving Sooryavanshi another chance to break into the playing XI.

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Issued by:

Saurabh Kumar

Published on:

Jul 02, 2026 1:06 PM IST