Why must Vaibhav Sooryavanshi wait for India? Shreyas Iyer has a telling answer

India's 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may have to wait for his chance in the national side, with captain Shreyas Iyer indicating that the team's established openers are likely to keep their places in the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand.

Iyer acknowledged Sooryavanshi's talent but stressed that Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson have been delivering consistent performances at the top of the order. 

Their form makes it difficult for the youngster to break into the playing XI.

India will begin the five-match T20I series against New Zealand on Thursday, October 22. Sooryavanshi could remain on the sidelines if the team management opts to continue with its existing opening combination.

Iyer urges Sooryavanshi to remain patient

Speaking ahead of the opening match, Iyer said Sooryavanshi should remain positive in the dressing room and use the experience of being part of the national setup to prepare for future opportunities.

Iyer pointed out that the teenager has several years to establish himself in international cricket. He also highlighted the contribution of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson, who have been consistent performers for India.

‘Players like Vaibhav need to remain happy in the dressing room. He is very young and has many years ahead of him to get opportunities. He can't walk straight into the team right now, because our openers have been scoring consistently. They helped us win the T20 World Cup,’ Iyer said.

His remarks suggest India are unlikely to change their opening combination for the New Zealand series, provided the two established batters keep their places.

Iyer highlights value of overseas experience

India included Sooryavanshi in its squad for overseas tours of England and Ireland earlier in 2026. Since then, India have played 21 T20 matches, with the youngster featuring in the playing XI in only eight of them.

However, Iyer believes being in the national squad, even without regular chances to play, can help Sooryavanshi develop his game and adapt to international conditions. 

The captain said exposure to overseas pitches and playing environments would help the teenager prepare for future assignments.

He added that the experience could also enable Sooryavanshi to guide other players when they tour similar conditions for the first time.

According to Iyer, learning to bat on different surfaces and adapting to unfamiliar conditions would benefit the young batter's long-term development.

For Sooryavanshi, the upcoming series could therefore offer a chance to gain experience around the senior team, even if a place in the playing XI remains uncertain.