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'Vaibhav Sooryavanshi cannot walk in yet' - Shreyas Iyer backs the regular Indian openers

Ahead of a multi-format tour against New Zealand commencing on October 22, 2026, Indian captain Shreyas Iyer has clarified that teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will not immediately break into the starting XI. Iyer explained that incumbent opening batters Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma remain locked into their roles following their title-winning form earlier in the year.

While Sooryavanshi has made notable strides since debuting against England in July 2026—scoring 246 runs across eight appearances—Iyer emphasized the value of keeping the young prodigy in the squad for overseas experience. The touring contingent will compete in five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Test matches through late November.

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