Criticism of Indian Team Management Over Player Handling

Mohammad Kaif has voiced strong criticism regarding the Indian cricket team's management, particularly concerning the treatment of players Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Sanju Samson. He argues that their handling has been unprofessional, leading to doubts in their performance. As the team prepares for the upcoming series against Zimbabwe, they face challenges under Shreyas Iyer's captaincy, having not won a T20I match yet. This article delves into the players' recent performances and the implications for the team's future.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 12, 2026, 23:47 IST

Concerns Raised by Mohammad Kaif

Mohammad Kaif has expressed his dissatisfaction with how the Indian cricket team's management has treated players Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Sanju Samson. He criticized the coaching staff for their poor handling of the two opening batsmen, who were both excluded from the playing XI during the recent tour in the UK. While Samson opened the innings in both T20 matches against Ireland, he retained his spot despite underwhelming performances. After the first T20I against England, he was dropped from the squad. Sooryavanshi made his debut in the second T20I but played only three matches before being sidelined. Kaif took to social media to voice his concerns, stating, 'I have never seen a more confused management in Indian cricket. The way Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Sanju Samson have been treated is unprofessional. One is a generational talent, and the other is a World Cup winner; they should be instilled with confidence, not doubt.'

In the two T20Is against Ireland, Samson scored a mere five runs and managed only one run in the first T20I against England. He was dismissed for 27 runs in the final T20I against England and will not participate in the upcoming three-match T20I series against Zimbabwe. On the other hand, Sooryavanshi scored 14, 13, and 15 in his three innings against England, struggling to adapt to the challenging conditions. He is included in the squad for the Zimbabwe series and is expected to open the innings there.

India's T20I Struggles Under Shreyas Iyer

India yet to win a T20I under Shreyas Iyer

Under the captaincy of Shreyas Iyer, India has yet to secure a victory in a T20I match. Despite recent challenges, the Iyer-led team is expected to be the favorite in the upcoming series against Zimbabwe. Notably, India has not won a T20I against Zimbabwe since 2015. Following the Zimbabwe series, the T20I squad will prepare for the 2026 Asian Games, while the ODI team is set to compete against England in three 50-over matches starting Tuesday (July 14).