Afghanistan captain Ibrahim Zadran confirmed his squad will utilise franchise intelligence to target 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during Sunday’s opening T20I against India in New Delhi.
Seeking an unprecedented bilateral T20I series victory over their hosts at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Afghanistan are relying on video analysis to counter the teenager. The tourists have also formulated specific plans for returning fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah following his recent net session against the prospect.
Speaking to Gulf News, Zadran explained his tactical approach to the Indian batting line-up.
“He is an amazing talent. Recently, he played great cricket in the Indian Premier League, and he has been performing well at different levels. We have thought about him and gained that knowledge from those guys who have played against him in the IPL,” Zadran said.
India Face Top Order Dilemma
India captain Shreyas Iyer faces a delicate India’s top order selection decision, forced to choose between Sanju Samson and Sooryavanshi to partner Abhishek Sharma.
“Having all three of them in the team is a luxury. They are flawless in their own departments. It is going to be a tight call because they have been performing consistently. Whoever gets the opportunity, it’s for the team’s benefit,” Iyer added.
Zadran takes charge in New Delhi following his appointment earlier this year, succeeding Rashid Khan as Afghanistan target their first T20I series win against India.
