India batters Sanju Samson and Vaibhav Suryavanshi shared a heartwarming moment on the sidelines of the net session ahead of the second T20I against England. In a warm, elder-brother-like gesture, the wicketkeeper-batter placed his arm around the youngster’s shoulders while chatting with him.
The duo were previously teammates at Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League and played several matches together. Interestingly, it was Samson’s injury that accelerated Suryavanshi’s entry into the playing XI. The teenage batter later played under Samson’s captaincy before moving to Chennai Super Kings in a high-profile trade.
Samson, who continues to be regarded as India’s first-choice opener, a factor that has kept Suryavanshi out of the XI since his call-up, was seen interacting with the youngster during the practice session. The wholesome moment quickly caught attention. Watch the video here:
The way Sanju Samson put his hand on Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s shoulder, hugged him, and boosted his confidence during today’s practice.🥹🇮🇳❤️ pic.twitter.com/zgxfRMhFc5
— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) July 3, 2026
The five-match series between India and England remains tied at 0-0 after the opening match at the Riverside Ground was called off due to rain shortly after the first innings.
“Can’t just play him” — India coach on Vaibhav Suryavanshi debut
Morne Morkel hinted that Vaibhav Suryavanshi may have to wait longer for his international debut, as the team management feels responsible for backing the players who recently helped India win the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
“It’s not as straightforward as saying, ‘Let’s play him.’ It’s a matter of backing the guys who’ve won World Cups and done really well in tough situations, then building from there and seeing how we can make our top order as strong as possible in these conditions,” Morkel said at the pre-match press conference (via Indian Express).
There has been growing demand from fans and experts for Suryavanshi’s inclusion, particularly with Sanju Samson struggling for runs. The right-handed opener has managed just six runs across his last three innings.
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