Correspondent, 23 October: Ahead of the second T20 match against New Zealand, a significant change is expected in the Indian squad. With Ishan Kishan unavailable for selection due to an injury, there is a strong possibility that Vaibhav Suryavanshi will be included in the final playing XI. Preparing extensively for this potential opportunity, Vaibhav's unique practice methods have left everyone astonished.
During the Indian team's net practice session at Hagley Oval, Vaibhav spent a considerable amount of time batting against local bowlers. Surprisingly, he dedicated his entire session to facing only spin bowling. This targeted approach is believed to be in anticipation of the New Zealand team deploying an off-spinner like Michael Bracewell against him.
The intense focus on spin appears to stem from the first T20 match, where Bracewell created difficulties for Abhishek Sharma and successfully claimed his wicket. If Vaibhav does make the cut for the playing XI, his batting position remains a major topic of discussion. In the series opener, the duo of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson dismantled the confidence of the New Zealand bowling attack by putting together a 93-run partnership during the powerplay.
Observers are curious to see if the team management will alter this opening combination or place Vaibhav at the number three spot, a position Sanju Samson could also potentially occupy. According to his record, Vaibhav Suryavanshi has amassed 246 runs in eight international T20 matches. His performance includes two half-centuries, an average of 30.75, and a strike rate of 189.36.
Both Vaibhav and Abhishek Sharma were seen putting in the hard yards during the pre-match session. While an official confirmation regarding Vaibhav replacing Kishan is yet to be made, his inclusion is highly probable. The practice session also saw participation from other squad members, including Prince Yadav, Shivam Dube, Varun Chakaravarthy, and Kuldeep Yadav.
