Indian cricket team captain Shreyas Iyer has publicly backed young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, urging him to maintain patience and confidence despite being left out of the playing eleven for the recently concluded five-match T20I series against the West Indies. The series, which provided a significant test for the Indian squad, ended in a 2-2 draw after the final match in Bengaluru was abandoned due to rain.
Sooryavanshi, who has previously impressed with 246 runs in eight T20I appearances at a strike rate exceeding 186—a tally that includes two half-centuries—did not see any action during the latest bilateral contest. His last competitive appearance for the national side remains the Asian Games final against Pakistan. Explaining the selection decision, Iyer pointed to the consistent performances of the established opening duo, Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, whose stability at the top of the order made it difficult for the team management to rotate the squad.
Addressing the situation following the final match, Iyer emphasized the importance of mental fortitude for young players waiting for their breakthrough. "I just keep telling him, you will get your opportunities. If you are consistent with your process, mindset a bit light and not think too much about not getting an opportunity....you have to wait sometimes," the captain stated. He reiterated that Sooryavanshi should continue to focus on his preparation rather than the frustration of being sidelined.
Reflecting on the broader results of the T20I series, Iyer expressed that the outcome could have favored India had the team maintained better bowling discipline. He specifically noted the second and fourth matches as missed opportunities where the opposition successfully chased down totals exceeding 240 runs. "Could have been a different scoreline if we had bowled well in the 2nd and 4th game. Batting has been sensational, execution we fell short," Iyer remarked while acknowledging the high standard of cricket played by the visiting West Indies side.
The West Indies team, led by captain Shai Hope, was praised for their competitive edge throughout the series. Hope was eventually named the Player of the Series, having amassed 261 runs across four innings at a strike rate above 190. His contribution included two centuries and one half-century, which proved decisive in keeping the West Indies level with India despite the hosts' explosive batting performances.
In the weather-impacted final encounter in Bengaluru, India sought to finish on a high note. The batting lineup showcased intent early on, with Ishan Kishan delivering a quick-fire cameo of 30 runs from 10 balls, while Naman Dhir provided stability with an unbeaten 24 off six deliveries. For the West Indies, bowlers Shamar Springer and Keemo Paul were effective, each claiming two wickets before the rain intervened.
Looking ahead, the Indian squad faces further challenges on the international calendar, with Iyer noting that the team must learn from the inconsistencies experienced during this series. As the focus shifts to the upcoming tour of New Zealand, the captain emphasized that the team’s ability to bounce back from losses remains a positive takeaway. For players like Sooryavanshi, the wait for a spot in the starting lineup continues, framed by the captain's call for patience and continued dedication to the team's process.
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