Young Indian national player Vaibhav Suryavanshi will likely have to wait even longer to make the starting lineup. Former experienced batsman Cheteshwar Pujara also stated that it will be extremely difficult to immediately include Vaibhav in the main squad during the five-match T20 series against New Zealand.
Discussing the situation on JioStar, Cheteshwar Pujara emphasized that team balance is of great importance in New Zealand conditions. More versatile players are required there, so there is not enough room for many batsmen in the top order.
Continuing his thought, Pujara suggested that under New Zealand conditions, Sanju Samson and Vaibhav cannot both participate in the starting eleven, meaning Vaibhav will have to wait for his chance, although opportunities will certainly be given to him.
Captain Shreyas Iyer had previously stated that players like Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson are key figures in the team's World Cup victories.
Furthermore, since these two players consistently score runs, Vaibhav has to remain on the bench. Nevertheless, if a spot opens up due to fitness issues or changing circumstances, Vaibhav may be considered.
Commenting on Sanju Samson's recent inconsistency in play, Pujara defended him. He noted that in T20 cricket, consistency for top-order batsmen is not as important as many think. In Pujara's opinion, Sanju is never truly out of form; fluctuations happen in T20 format, and he always returns to his best form after a good game.