India have already sealed the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan after winning the opening two games, leaving the third match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi as a dead rubber on September 17. With the series result decided, the spotlight has now shifted towards India’s team selection and whether players who have been waiting on the sidelines will finally get an opportunity.
One name attracting particular attention is Vaibhav Suryavanshi. The young batter has been retained in India’s squad for the Afghanistan series but has not featured in either of the first two T20Is. India captain Shreyas Iyer has now shared his thoughts on Vaibhav and the possibility of the youngster getting an opportunity to play in the series.
Shreyas Iyer opens up at Vaibhav Suryavanshi getting a chance in the 3rd T20I
Speaking after India’s seven-wicket victory in the second T20I, Iyer made it clear that India are keen to give playing time to members of the squad who have not yet featured. The statement suggests that India could use the final match to rotate their squad and provide valuable match practice to players who have remained on the bench during the first two games.
However, Iyer did not specifically confirm that Vaibhav will be included in the playing XI. His comments instead indicated that the team is considering giving opportunities to players who have not yet played.
“Definitely, we want all of them to get used to the wicket and get some practice, so it will be a good opportunity to give a chance to the guys sitting out,” Iyer said during his post-match chat.
Notably, Vaibhav has been part of India’s squad for the series but has watched both matches from the sidelines. The 15-year-old has therefore not yet had the opportunity to make an international appearance in the ongoing contest against Afghanistan. With India now holding an unassailable 2-0 lead, the circumstances are different heading into the third T20I. The result of the series can no longer be changed, allowing the team management greater scope to assess their options. Iyer’s comments have consequently increased the possibility of Vaibhav being considered for the final match. A place in the XI, though, will only be confirmed when India announce their team for the encounter.
Sanju Samson delivers in series-clinching victory
India’s second T20I victory also featured an important contribution from Sanju Samson. The wicketkeeper-batter smashed 57 runs from just 22 balls, producing a rapid innings as India completed a seven-wicket win in Delhi. Samson has featured in both matches of the series, making his contribution in the second T20I a significant one as India wrapped up the contest with a game to spare.
The third T20I will now take place at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on September 17. With the series already secured, India’s selection will be closely watched, particularly to see whether the players who have been sitting out receive their opportunity.
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