‘Let's spare a thought for Sanju Samson’ - Ambati Rayudu urges fans not to forget T20 World Cup hero

Former Chennai Super Kings stalwart Ambati Rayudu has urged cricket fans not to forget Sanju Samson’s remarkable achievements despite the excitement surrounding Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s historic T20I debut at Old Trafford on Saturday.

Just three T20Is after being named Player of the Tournament at the T20 World Cup, one of cricket’s most prestigious individual honours, Samson found himself out of the playing XI as the 15-year-old prodigy was handed an opportunity. The wicketkeeper-batter had struggled for form in recent outings, with his scores failing to make an impact.

His one-run knock off seven balls in the opening T20I against England ultimately prompted the team management to make a change. Rayudu emphasized that while young talents deserve encouragement, fans should also remember Samson’s recent contributions and avoid judging him solely on a brief run of poor performances.

“Let’s spare a thought for Sanju Samson.. very happy to see Vaibhav make his debut and it deserves a celebration but let’s not forget that Sanju was the man of the tournament in the t20 worldcup just 3 t20 games ago. I just hope he comes back strong and also wish Vaibhav a very long and a record shattering career,” wrote Rayudu on X.

Sooryavanshi’s much-awaited international debut lasted only ten balls, but the 15-year-old left a strong impression with his fearless approach. The young batter smashed two towering sixes before being stumped by Will Jacks for 14, offering a glimpse of his immense talent and potential.

With his appearance, Sooryavanshi became the youngest cricketer to represent India in international cricket, surpassing the long-standing record previously held by Sachin Tendulkar. Despite the historic milestone, India suffered a disappointing defeat as England successfully chased down a target of 191 with four wickets in hand to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series.

After the opening fixture was washed out, England now needed just two more victories to clinch the series, while India faced a must-win situation, requiring victories in each of the remaining three matches to keep their hopes alive.