Even Japan captain wanted to watch Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. But India benched him again
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was left out of India’s playing XI for their historic first-ever men’s T20I against Japan in Sano on Tuesday, September 22, leaving Japan captain Kendel Kadowaki-Fleming disappointed. The 15-year-old batter was part of India’s squad but did not feature in the landmark contest, which was also played as part of the celebrations marking 75 years of diplomatic relations between India and Japan.
The match, initially scheduled as a full-length T20I, was reduced to five overs per side after rain and a wet outfield disrupted the start. India captain Shreyas Iyer opted to bat after winning the toss, while Japan prepared for a rare opportunity to take on the reigning T20 World Cup champions on home soil.
“I was a little bit disappointed that the 15-year-old prodigy Vaibhav (Sooryavanshi) wasn't part of the team sheet today,” Kadowaki-Fleming said in the post-match presentation ceremony.
The Japan captain had spoken about Sooryavanshi ahead of the match as well, with the youngster's inclusion one of the talking points surrounding India's squad. Sooryavanshi, who has made headlines with his rapid rise over the last one and a half years, had been expected by many to be in contention for a debut in the historic fixture.
India posted only 32 for four in their five overs, with Japan's Charlie Hara-Hinze making an immediate impact by dismissing Abhishek Sharma for a golden duck. Sanju Samson was also dismissed cheaply, leaving India in trouble before the innings was completed.
Japan made India work hard for victory in their chase. The hosts reached 25 for three after four overs and needed eight runs from the final over to complete a remarkable upset. Kadowaki-Fleming played a key role in the chase, scoring 12 before Washington Sundar dismissed him with the final delivery of the fourth over.
Axar Patel then bowled the final over and conceded just two runs. Japan needed four from the last ball but could manage only a leg bye, allowing India to escape with a narrow two-run victory.
Despite the defeat, Japan produced a spirited performance against one of international cricket's leading teams. For India, the match provided a valuable preparation opportunity ahead of their Asian Games campaign, while Sooryavanshi will now have to wait for another chance to make his T20I debut.- EndsPublished By: sabyasachi chowdhuryPublished On: Sep 22, 2026 17:19 IST
