'We can't write his obituary immediately': Ashwin defends Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Ravichandran Ashwin moved to clarify his controversial remark, explaining that his "serve drinks" comment about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was meant to highlight learning opportunities for the youngster. He urged restraint from writing off the batter, saying 'We can't write his obituary immediately', after Sooryavanshi recovered from a difficult spell to earn Player of the Series honors against Zimbabwe.

Published: 2026-07-29T03:07:29.0000000Z. Ashwin addressed the fallout from his earlier words, stressing that the comment targeted the need for development rather than being a personal slight. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi had come under scrutiny following a disappointing series against England, a run of form that prompted debate over his place. The batter's form against Zimbabwe, however, culminated in a Player of the Series award that shifted attention back to his potential. Ashwin used the episode to call for patience with emerging players, noting their careers often include fluctuations.

Ashwin made clear that the phrase "serve drinks" was not intended as a lasting judgement on Sooryavanshi's career but as an observation about room for growth. He framed the comment around the learning curve young cricketers face and emphasised the importance of experience in shaping progress. The clarification sought to temper reactions that had become focused on a single remark rather than the wider context of a developing international career.

Sooryavanshi's trajectory over the recent fixtures provided the backdrop for Ashwin's defence. After a poor series against England that drew criticism, the batter responded with a strong showing in the contest with Zimbabwe. That revival earned him the Player of the Series accolade and underlined the point that form can change rapidly for younger players.

The senior off-spinner appealed for moderation in assessments of young talent, arguing that one poor outing should not define a player. 'We can't write his obituary immediately', Ashwin said, urging those who had been swift to judge to recognise the oscillations inherent in a budding international career. His intervention reiterated a call for constructive support rather than dismissal.

Ashwin's comments and Sooryavanshi's subsequent recognition against Zimbabwe together offered a reminder about the unpredictable nature of early careers in international cricket. The exchange highlighted the balance between critique and encouragement when evaluating players still finding their feet at the top level.