India bowling coach Morne Morkel has backed teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to be ready when his chance arrives, but made clear the team management will not fast-track the 15-year-old into the playing XI, reaffirming confidence in established openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma ahead of the second T20I against England in Manchester.

Management Backs Samson Despite Poor Form

Samson has endured a difficult run on the ongoing UK tour, scoring 5, 0, and 1 in his last three innings, yet Morkel was unequivocal in defending the wicketkeeper-batter. 'I think we need to respect the fact that we had our No.1 batter in T20 cricket, Abhishek Sharma. Sanju was the player of the World Cup,' Morkel said. 'Samson had a great IPL. So, as a coaching staff, it's only fair to show trust and support for your players. Yes, a young man is knocking on the door, and that's exciting.'

He added: 'But for not just those two players at the top, but for the entire group, it's good that we show our support.' The stance signals that India's management is prioritising continuity over short-term experimentation, even as Sooryavanshi's presence generates visible excitement within the squad.

Why Sooryavanshi Won't Be Rushed

Morkel cautioned against the temptation to reshuffle the batting order simply to accommodate a new face. 'In a day, it's about putting performances on the board. That is the key. But we also don't want to think too much and put other players in different positions. So, it's not as simple as just saying, 'Let's play Sooryavanshi,'' he explained.

'It's about standing by some of the guys who have won World Cups, who have performed well in tough situations, and then building from there to strengthen our top order as much as possible in these conditions.' This is a notable framing — India's coaching staff is treating squad harmony and role clarity as prerequisites for peak performance, rather than chasing the novelty of a prodigy's debut.

Sooryavanshi's Attitude Draws Praise at Nets

Despite not yet earning a cap, Sooryavanshi has made an impression at training. 'I think he's filled in very well. If you follow the boys on Instagram, there are already many photos being posted, especially of him. At the nets as a 15-year-old on the international stage, it can be intimidating,' Morkel noted. 'But just from the couple of nets we've had, he's been very impressive. We're all excited to see how he performs. When he gets an opportunity, I'm sure he'll be ready. Fitting into the squad has been very smooth.'

Prince Yadav and Harshit Rana Boost Pace Depth

Morkel also highlighted the emergence of fast bowler Prince Yadav, who has claimed six wickets in his first three international matches after beginning as a net bowler for the Lucknow Super Giants. 'I was lucky to work with Prince while I was with Lucknow Super Giants. At that time, he was a net bowler, and he was already recognised as someone with great skill. I'm amazed at how calm he stays,' Morkel said.

The former South Africa pacer further noted that Harshit Rana's return from injury and his intensity at the crease were encouraging signs, giving India additional firepower in their pace attack as they look to level the five-match series.