'Makes Zero Sense': Netizens React After Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Is Dropped For IND Vs ENG 5th T20I
· Free Press Journal

India head coach Gautam Gambhir has come under fresh scrutiny after Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was left out of the playing XI for the fifth and final T20I against England. The decision surprised many as India had already sealed the series before the final game. Fans and experts expected the 15-year-old to get another opportunity in a dead rubber.
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Instead, the team management recalled Sanju Samson, who had earlier been replaced by Sooryavanshi during the series. The move has sparked debate over India's selection strategy and long-term planning. Many believe the final match would have been the perfect occasion to continue investing in the young batter.
Presenting #TeamIndia's Playing XI for the 5️⃣th and final T20I
— BCCI (@BCCI) July 11, 2026
Updates ▶️ https://t.co/7mo5osv0MW#ENGvIND pic.twitter.com/uSVKJB5raY
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi managed scores of 13, 14 and 15 in his three innings during the T20I series against England. While the 15-year-old showed glimpses of his fearless batting, he struggled to counter the pace and bounce of Jofra Archer, who dismissed him in successive outings. Despite the brief stays, it was hoped that the Rajasthan Royals star would get an extended run given the talent he posseses.
The decision has also placed Gambhir under the spotlight, with his team selections drawing criticism in recent months. While Samson's experience adds depth to the batting lineup, several former players and fans have questioned the timing of his return. They argue that a series-deciding match would have been better used to give Sooryavanshi more international exposure.
Netizens react to Sooryavanshi snub
Wow !
— Manan Padia (@Manan10678533) July 11, 2026
A 15-yo is made the scapegoat of the defeat's humiliation. Bcoz it is the most easy one
If 3 failures is a benchmark, why did Tilak not get dropped after all failures of WC+6 UK matches
Same for Ishan. Why unequal treatment?
Utter disgrace of a decision!
Have some shame!
It is musical chair game in team selection and every 2 to 3 matches a few players are rotated without any logic
— NDD (@pk2278) July 11, 2026
Horrific
— AnAvidFan (@SidNewatia) July 11, 2026
Terrible
Favoritism at play
Fire Gambhir
Fire Agarkar
Biggest Idiots
Don't destroy Indian Cricket pls
Sooryavanshi has been handled terribly. Should’ve played vs Ireland and Samson back in for England
— M (@mub158783) July 11, 2026
Absolutely makes zero sense to drop Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Samson could’ve been accommodated in place of Varma/Kishan for this game. Mind you the series is already lost #ENGvIND
— Dodda Ganesh | ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ (@doddaganesha) July 11, 2026
Gautam Gambhir ko hazam nahi ho raha Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ka fame.
— Anuj (@AnujKaReview) July 11, 2026
- never seen such an insecure coach in history of Indian cricket. pic.twitter.com/lMV2klC6nD
With the series already in India's pocket, the final T20I presented an ideal chance to test the youngster further. Instead, the management opted for experience over youth, triggering fresh criticism on social media. The selection call has once again put Gambhir and the team management under pressure to justify their decisions.