The inclusion of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the Duleep Trophy squad for the East Zone has created a lot of buzz, especially due to his youth. But East Zone selector Pravanjan Mullick has justified the move, stating that the responsibility is to help the teenager develop his leadership qualities and not to put him under undue pressure.
Sooryavanshi will be the deputy of Ishan Kishan, who will head the team in the inter-zonal competition. The selectors feel the youngster has the maturity to take on more responsibilities and has a lot to gain from the experience, Mullick said.
Selectors explain Sooryavanshi decision
The selectors were aware that Sooryavanshi is 16 years old and hence opted for him being vice-captain instead of captain, said Mullick. Sooryavanshi will not be the only one to shoulder the burden of leadership in the match as Kishan is also playing in the team and keeping wickets.
The selector further added that Sooryavanshi already has experience of leadership positions. He played for the Under-19 team that won the World Cup and was Bihar’s vice-captain in first-class cricket. The selectors feel those experiences give him a platform to take on his new role at the Duleep Trophy level.
Leadership opportunity for teenage star
Mullick feels the Duleep Trophy will provide Sooryavanshi with a great chance to play and lead. The selectors also hope that if he keeps on performing well in the competition, they will keep him in their eyes for the national selection panel.
Sooryavanshi has had a stellar career and has made a significant mark in the IPL and now in the international arena. He was named Player of the Series during India’s recent Zimbabwe tour, although his performances in the T20I series against England were less impressive.
East Zone prepare for Duleep Trophy
The East Zone selection meeting took place at the Eden Gardens and was attended by representatives from the cricket associations in the region. Mullick said the selection of Sooryavanshi was a collective effort and the selectors did not have to seek the opinion of the teenager before taking the decision.
The Duleep Trophy will kick off from Bengaluru from August 23, where the East Zone will play the North Zone in the first match. Kishan and Sooryavanshi will be spearheading the team and will get their hands dirty in red-ball cricket during the tournament.
