Unapologetic and Unmoved: India Coach Sticks to Decision on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Exclusion

India bowling coach Morne Morkel on Friday hinted that the management will not change the opening pair of Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma despite the presence of the in-form Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the squad. Samson has registered scores of 5, 0, and 1 in the last three matches, while Abhishek has managed a half-century and a 49. “We have the No. 1 batter in T20I cricket, or we had the No. 1 batter, Abhishek Sharma. Sanju was the Player of the World Cup,”  Morkel said on the eve of the second T20I against England.

“Samson was brilliant in the IPL. It is fair to show faith in and back players who have been performing. I know a young man is waiting for his chance, and it is exciting.

“But not just for two openers, but even for the rest of the players, it is a must that we back our guys,” he added.

Morkel also ruled out the possibility of any changes in the batting order, saying the players have delivered in their respective positions.

“It is important to perform, and that is the key. But we don’t want to dwell too much on the issue and bat players out of their positions. It is not easy to play Sooryavanshi.

“The World Cup-winning players deserve backing as they did well in tough and challenging situations. We will have to build and see how our top order gets better in these conditions,” he explained.

Morkel revealed that Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has adapted well to the Indian dressing room culture and environment.

“He is at ease. The boys are posting a lot of photos with him on social media. The international stage can be very intimidating for the 15-year-old.

“He has been very impressive in a couple of net sessions. We are excited to see how everything pans out for him. He will be ready when he gets a chance. He has come and fit in the squad smoothly,” he revealed.

The former Proteas bowler also hailed Prince Yadav, who has taken 6 wickets in three international matches.

“I was lucky to work with Prince Yadav during my days with the Lucknow Super Giants. Prince was a net bowler, and he was already skilled. I am impressed by how he keeps things simple. He is looking for ways to improve as a bowler. It is all about execution. The death bowling and the middle phase are crucial. His decision-making under pressure will be great to see.”

Morkel also heaped massive praise on Harshit Rana for his return to action after a long injury layoff.