3 reasons why Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could replace Sanju Samson in India's XI for second ENG vs IND T20I

Sanju Samson struggled to make a mark in first ENG vs IND T20I

India’s tour of England 2026 has started, but the first T20I at Durham ended without a result due to rain. The Indian team posted a strong total of 189/7 after recovering from an early collapse, but the weather did not allow England to begin the chase.

Captain Shreyas Iyer led from the front with a decent knock of 68 runs off 47 balls, while Abhishek Sharma continued his aggressive form, hitting quick-fire 59 runs off 24 balls. Shivam Dube added some crucial runs at the end to push India close to the 190-mark.

However, the opening combination once again became a talking point. Sanju Samson failed to make an impact as India slipped to 6/2 inside the first two overs of the innings. Sanju has been struggling with his form since the Ireland series, and now, the management might be looking for other options.

With the second T20I around the corner, there is a possibility that the youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could be making his international debut. Here are three reasons why India could consider making that change.

3 reasons why Vaibhav Sooryavanshi could replace Sanju Samson

1. Sanju Samson’s poor form

Sanju Samson has struggled throughout the UK tour. He has not been able to convert his starts into a decent score, and he is also not feeling confident at the crease. Sanju’s poor form has put extra pressure on the middle-order, forcing players like Shreyas Iyer and Abhishek Sharma to play responsibly.

If India wants a stronger start at the top, the management may be forced to look at other options, and Vaibhav Sooyavanshi perfectly fits that spot.

2. Sanju Samson’s struggles against the moving ball

England conditions often help the new ball move around, and that has been a problem for Samson. He has looked less comfortable against swing and seam, which is a major concern when the starting overs are expected to set the tone for the innings and dominate the opposition.

3. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s rich form

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been in outstanding form across recent cricket. The 15-year-old had a remarkable IPL 2026 campaign, finishing with 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.30. He carried that form into India A cricket and played an incredible 94 off just 29 balls against Sri Lanka A.

Despite those performances, Sooryavanshi has remained on the bench for the Ireland series and the first T20I against England.

Giving him a chance could add new energy to India’s batting lineup. Sooryavanshi’s fearless approach at the top could also complement Abhishek Sharma, who has looked in excellent form.

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