Sooryavanshi Scores 4 as India Clinch T20I vs New Zealand

India clinched the T20I against New Zealand in Christchurch, but the win was tinged with controversy over the batting order.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the 15‑year‑old who stepped in for the injured Ishan Kishan, was drafted at No.3 and managed only four runs off eight balls. His brief cameo left fans and pundits alike questioning the decision.

The match itself swung in India’s favour, but the momentum shift came from the early wickets that set the tone. Even with Sooryavanshi’s limited contribution, India’s bowlers rattled the Black Caps and secured the victory.

Murali Kartik, the former India spinner, slammed the decision in a post‑match interview. “Sooryavanshi is best as an opener,” he told reporters, “and putting him in the middle order was a mistake.” Kartik argued that an experienced player like Sanju Samson would have been a safer choice at No.3.

Kartik also floated an alternative, suggesting Shivam Dube could have filled the middle‑order gap left by Kishan’s injury. He said, “If Sooryavanshi had not played, Dube could have handled the middle order better.”

The debate may influence future batting orders and selection strategy for the series. India’s management will need to balance youthful talent with experience as the team heads into the next T20I in Auckland.