Old Indian ship Ambati Rayudu came out in support Saint Samson following the wicketkeeper batsman’s exclusion from India’s playing XI for the second T20I against England, he urged fans not to forget the match-winning role he played in India’s recent T20 World Cup triumph. India made a significant change at Old Trafford by handing 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi his senior international debut in place of Samson. While the move generated a lot of excitement, Rayudu felt it was important to acknowledge the contribution of the player who paved the way. Taking X, the first Chennai Super Kings batter congratulated Sooryavanshi for reaching the international stage but stressed that Samson’s recent achievements should not be overlooked.
Rayudu Post
“Sparing a thought for Sanju Samson… very happy to see you Vaibhav making his debut, and deserves a celebration, but let’s not forget that Sanju was man of the tournament in the T20 World Cup just 3 T20 matches ago,” Rayudu wrote on X. Samson lost his place after a disappointing outing in the opening T20I against England, where he managed just one run from seven deliveries. With India looking to refresh their batting order, the selectors turned to the highly-rated Sooryavanshi, who has been widely regarded as one of the country’s brightest young batting talents. While Rayudu welcomed the teenager’s inclusion, he also expressed confidence that Samson would bounce back from the setback. “I just hope he comes back strong and I also wish Vaibhav a very long and record-breaking career,” Rayudu added. Samson’s omission has become one of the biggest talking points of the series, especially considering his remarkable performances during India’s successful T20 World Cup campaign. The wicketkeeper-batsman was named Player of the Tournament after playing a decisive role in India’s title-winning run, making his exclusion after a solitary score a subject of debate among fans and former cricketers. Sooryavanshi’s debut innings lasted just 10 balls, but the 15-year-old still offered glimpses of his immense talent. He scored 14 runs, hitting two sixes before being stumped, showing the fearless approach that earned him his first India call-up. Despite the teenager’s historic debut, India were unable to secure victory. England chased down 191 with four wickets to spare to go 1-0 ahead in the five-match T20I series. With the opening match ending in a washout, England now need two more wins to seal the series, while India must win each of the remaining three matches to turn the contest around.