Gavaskar slams selectors for including Hardik Pandya: The legendary batsman has questioned the Indian selectors’ latest decision.
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Sunil Gavaskar, former India captain and the first-ever batsman to cross the 10,000-run mark in Test cricket, seems to be at odds with the Indian selectors’ decision to include all-rounder Hardik Pandya for the ongoing tour of New Zealand.
While the news of Pandya being called up to the squad came as a respite for both Pandya and the Indian team management, the former cricketer and current commentator has given the impression of being unhappy with the development.
“The question is what was he [Hardik Pandya] suspended for? How has the suspension been lifted without a hearing?,” Gavaskar was quoted as saying to India Today.
Admitting that Pandya is key for India’s World Cup campaign, Gavaskar questioned the decision citing the consequence of the decision on all-rounder Vijay Shankar. Given their similar skills, it is all but confirmed that Pandya will replace Shankar in the playing XI.
“Hardik will be key for India at the World Cup and it’s a good thing he is coming to New Zealand but then what happens to Vijay Shankar? He has not done a bad job at all in the two games he has played so far. What’s going to be his position? Is he going to be sent back now that Pandya is coming here?,” Gavaskar questioned the selectors.
In the recently concluded Test series against Australia, India had announced a colossal 18-member squad with Pandya being added to it midway. Taking a dig at the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Gavaskar had a completely contrasting opinion regarding the same.
“I know BCCI is wealthy enough to have 20, 30 people. We saw a squad of 19 in Australia. I think the sooner that is sorted out, the better it will be for everyone concerned,” Gavaskar added.
Being a vital member of the Indian squad for ICC Cricket World Cup 2019, Pandya hasn’t played international cricket since September last year. In such circumstances, it becomes imperative to give him as much match practice at the highest level as possible.
