Suresh Raina Advocates for Abhishek Sharma's Inclusion in Test Cricket

In a recent discussion, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina highlighted the need for explosive opener Abhishek Sharma to be included in Test cricket. He raised concerns about the influence of IPL team owners on players' focus on the longest format of the game. Raina also questioned the readiness of young talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for Test matches. With impressive red-ball statistics, Sharma's potential is evident, while Sooryavanshi's performance raises questions about his current form. This conversation sheds light on the future of cricket in India and the importance of nurturing talent for all formats.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 5, 2026, 18:32 IST

Raina's Perspective on Test Cricket

Suresh Raina, a former Indian cricketer, expressed his belief that explosive opener Abhishek Sharma deserves a chance to play Test cricket. He raised concerns about whether IPL team owners and state associations are prioritizing the longest format of the game in the minds of players. Raina, who has a rich history in white-ball cricket and has played 18 Tests for India, shared his thoughts during an appearance on Aakash Chopra's YouTube channel.

Raina emphasized that Abhishek should be given opportunities in Test matches and questioned the readiness of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for such a challenge. He stated, "I feel Abhishek Sharma should play Test cricket. Vaibhav is very young. Does he want to play? What do his coaches think? These are questions. I feel he should play. Are the IPL owners and associations also thinking of this and putting Test cricket in players' minds? Coaches also have a role here."

Abhishek Sharma's Red-Ball Performance

Abhishek Sharma boasts a commendable record in red-ball cricket, having accumulated 1,071 runs across 24 matches and 37 innings, with an average of 30.60 and a strike rate of 70.46. His achievements include one century and five half-centuries, along with 20 wickets at an average exceeding 49, with his best bowling figures being 4/136.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's First-Class Statistics

In contrast, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, despite his success in white-ball formats, has struggled in red-ball cricket, managing only 347 runs in 10 first-class matches and 15 innings, averaging 23.13 with a strike rate of 96.38. His best scores include two fifties, with notable performances of 92 and 40 for East Zone against Central Zone in the Duleep Trophy semifinal. For the India U19 team, he has played six Tests, scoring 331 runs in 10 innings at an average of 33.10, including two centuries and a fifty.