Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Coach Accuses Gautam Gambhir-Led Team Management of ‘Dictatorship’
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s childhood coach, Manish Ojha, has criticised India’s team management for repeatedly benching the teenager during the T20I series against the West Indies, arguing that young players need match experience to develop.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s continued absence from India’s playing XI has prompted a sharp reaction from his childhood coach, Manish Ojha. He accused the Gautam Gambhir-led team management of “dictatorship” after the teenager missed India’s first three T20Is against the West Indies.
Speaking to Times Now, Ojha argued that young cricketers need regular match opportunities to improve their skills and build confidence. He questioned the approach of keeping promising players on the bench instead of testing them in competitive matches.
Ojha also warned that repeated omissions could leave Sooryavanshi frustrated and make him question his place in the team. He believes the youngster should gain experience through regular appearances rather than waiting for opportunities.
The coach expressed strong confidence in Sooryavanshi’s potential, describing the teenager as a “storm” whose talent would eventually shine through.
Sooryavanshi earned his India call-up after impressive performances in the Indian Premier League and junior cricket. He made his T20I debut in July 2026 and has scored 246 runs in eight matches at a strike rate of 186, according to the figures cited in the report.
However, he has struggled to secure a regular place in India’s playing XI. The report states that he has missed 11 of the 19 matches India have played since his maiden call-up.
Ojha’s comments have renewed the debate over how teams should balance the development of young talent with selection decisions and immediate results. India’s management has yet to give Sooryavanshi a chance in the ongoing West Indies T20I series.
