Former India wicketkeeper-batter Farokh Engineer is calling for 15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to be fast-tracked into the ODI team and open alongside Rohit Sharma ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Engineer feels that Sooryavanshi has already done enough to earn an ODI call-up after his breakthrough T20I series against Zimbabwe, where he finished as the leading run-scorer with 151 runs, including two half-centuries, and was named Player of the Series as India completed a 3-0 clean sweep.
The former India star believes that the combination of a right-handed Rohit and left-handed Sooryavanshi would provide the ideal balance in ODI cricket.
Engineer wants Shubman Gill to move to No. 4 in the batting order, allowing Sooryavanshi to partner Rohit at the top while Virat Kohli slots in at No. 3.
The 15-year-old's performances in Zimbabwe have caught the attention of Engineer, who thinks that those performances are enough to fast-track him into India's 50-over plans.
Sooryavanshi has shown areas that still require improvement, including handling short-pitched bowling, adapting quickly to overseas conditions and refining his shot selection.
However, Engineer urged India not to overburden the youngster with technical changes, insisting his natural game is what makes him special.
He believes that Sooryavanshi's fearless approach and match-winning ability make him a player India should invest in now rather than wait for the future.
Engineer's remarks come after Sooryavanshi enjoyed a breakthrough T20I series against Zimbabwe, showcasing his ability to adapt and produce measured performances on slow surfaces.
The teenager has also shown his potential to produce big scores, with a measured 81 off 49 balls in the final T20I on a slow Harare surface.
Engineer wants India to persevere with Sooryavanshi, who he believes will be a tremendous asset for the team.
The former India star is of the opinion that Sooryavanshi's natural game is what makes him special, and that he should be allowed to develop without over-coaching him.
Sooryavanshi's performances in Zimbabwe have sparked debate about his potential in the ODI format, with some questioning whether he is ready for the step up.
However, Engineer is adamant that the 15-year-old is ready to take on the challenge and make a big impact in the ODI format.
India are currently preparing for the 2027 ODI World Cup, and Sooryavanshi's inclusion in the team could be a major boost for the team.
The question now is whether India will take Engineer's advice and fast-track Sooryavanshi into the ODI team ahead of the 2027 World Cup.
Source: Yahoo Sports