India are all set to begin their five-match T20I series against England with the opening clash at Chester-le-Street on July 1. The series marks the beginning of an important white-ball assignment as the Men in Blue continue to shape their core for future ICC events. While the focus will be on several established stars, much of the attention is expected to revolve around the teen sensation. Vaibhav Suryavanshiwhose rapid rise has made him one of the most talked about cricketers in the country. With fans eager to see if the youngster gets a chance, the former India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has shared his views on India’s preferred opening combination and Suryavanshi’s chances of debuting on English soil.
Cheteshwar Pujara picks India openers for first T20I
Ahead of the first T20I, Pujara believes India should stick with the proven combination of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson at the top of the order. He also hopes Ishan Kishan to occupy the No. 3 position, insisting there is no reason to upset a batting unit that has already shown promise. Speaking on Star Sports, Pujara said he does not anticipate any change in India’s front three for the series opener.
“I don’t see any change in India’s top three – Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan. Both Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan will surely be part of the starting XI.” said Pujará.
The combination of Abhishek’s aggressive strokeplay, Samson’s attacking approach and Kishan’s left-handed style offers India a balanced top-order capable of taking on England’s bowling attack from the outset.
Also READ: Saba Karim picks India’s XI for first T20I against England; no place for Vaibhav Suryavanshi
Pujara asks if Vaibhav Suryavanshi will get a chance in T20I series
Despite the growing excitement surrounding Suryavanshi, Pujara stopped short of including the teenage prodigy in his preferred XI for the opening match. However, the veteran batsman is confident that the youngster will not have to wait too long to get his chance during the five-match series.
Pujara believes the depth of the Indian team and the length of the series makes player rotation inevitable, opening the door for Suryavanshi to make his international debut.
“When India rotates its players, Vaibhav Suryavanshi will surely feature in at least one match.” he added.
While Pujara has endorsed the experience for the opening match, the biggest talking point remains whether the Indian team management will give Suryavanshi an early opportunity. The teenage batting sensation has generated huge expectations following his notable performances in domestic and franchise cricket, making him one of the most exciting young prospects in Indian cricket.
Also READ: Stuart Broad reveals why he is excited to watch Vaibhav Suryavanshi in England
