Cheteswar Pujara is one of the most revered Test players from current generation of Indian cricketers. He did not reach the levels of Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman but he did his best to become dependable. But selectors have excluded Cheteswar Pujara from team that would face West Indies in Tests. They did not select Sarfaraz Khan aslo in the team. Sunil Gavaskar and many seniors criticized the selection committee. Cheteswar Pujara failed in WTC Final but he might have used WI opportunity to get back into form.
Sunil Gavaskar criticized Selectors for not giving Sarfaraz Khan opportunity. He stated that BCCI should tell young cricketers to not perform in Ranji Trophy matches and only play IPL. He also stated that Cheteswar Pujara should be part of Test Team and not be excluded. Selectors on the other hand stated that they have informed Cheteswar Pujara that they’re looking at youngsters. BCCI had to face trolls for Sarfaraz Khan exclusion.
They have stated that Sarfaraz Khan’s attitude, fitness and short temper as the reason for his exclusion. Cheteswar Pujara is back to nets and practice. Sarfaraz Khan did not make any comment about his selection. Ranji matches have to be the criteria for selection. Ar the same time, IPL has been breeding ground for young Indian players to get International exposure. Cheteswar Pujara has been the senior Test speciality and India needs him to be in great form.
Sarfaraz Khan, on the other hand, needs to be able to give Selection committee confidence that he is best in the country in every possible way. All we can say is, India has many talented cricketers and each one might not get their turn. When they do, they need to perform at their best. Hope, Sarfaraz Khan and Cheteswar Pujara keep reminding everyone that they are the best in Test Arena, in every possible way.
Australia look to increase their lead against England