Ashwin backs Sooryavanshi after Zimbabwe series success, compares to Ponting

Former India spinner R Ashwin has praised young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his performance in the recent T20I series against Zimbabwe, comparing him to Australian legend Ricky Ponting. Sooryavanshi, who struggled against short-pitched bowling during his debut series in England, scored a brisk 81 off 49 balls in the final match of the series, helping India complete a 3-0 sweep.

The 15-year-old from Bihar had aggregated scores of 13, 14, and 15 in three innings against England, with his technique against the short ball being questioned. However, Ashwin dismissed the idea that Sooryavanshi needed to change his approach. “There was nothing different about him. He is the same player. And there is no need for him to show himself differently. Why do we want that? He is a good player as he is. People spoke about the short ball stuff. Did Ricky Ponting never get out to the short ball?” Ashwin said in a media interaction.

Sooryavanshi’s innings in the third T20I against Zimbabwe included seven fours and four sixes, showcasing his ability to dominate the bowling attack. The series win comes after India had already secured a 4-1 victory in the preceding ODI series.

Ashwin’s comments underline the importance of allowing young players to develop without excessive scrutiny over technical flaws. The comparison to Ponting, one of the greatest batsmen of all time, highlights the high regard in which Sooryavanshi is held despite his early struggles.