Sooryavanshi debut 'not a straightforward decision', says Morkel

Three matches into the UK tour, India have made one thing clear: they are in no rush to fast-track Vaibhav Sooryavanshi into international cricket. Even after a first-ever series defeat to Ireland and Sanju Samson's scores of 5, 0 and 1 across three matches, the management has continued to back the top order that delivered the T20 World Cup earlier this year.

The decision has kept the spotlight on the 15-year-old, who has climbed the pecking order with impressive performances over the last year. Bowling coach Morne Morkel said handing Sooryavanshi a debut is not as "straightforward" as it appears, stressing the importance of showing faith in players who played key roles in India's T20 World Cup-winning campaign.

Asked about keeping Sooryavanshi waiting, Morkel said: "We need to respect that we've got the number one batter in T20 cricket, Abhishek Sharma. Sanju was Player of the World Cup, he had a great IPL. As a coaching staff, it's only fair to show faith and back your players.

"Yes, there's a young man knocking on the door, but for the rest of the group, it's a good sign that we back you guys. It's about putting performances on the board. Also, we don't want to bat players out of positions. It's not a straightforward decision to just play him. It's about backing guys who've won World Cups and building the best top-order model for these conditions."

Morkel said the teenager has settled into the senior set-up seamlessly and caught the eye in training.

"He's filled in very well. At nets as a 15-year-old at international level, it can be intimidating, but it's been impressive. When he gets an opportunity, I'm sure he'll be ready. In terms of fitting into the squad, it's been smooth."

India did not announce their XI on the eve of the Manchester T20I. If they stick with the same batting line-up, Sooryavanshi's wait will extend to a fourth match. With Samson still searching for runs and the teenager "knocking on the door", the debate continues.