Mohammed Kaif raises questions over Cheteshwar Pujara getting dropped from the test team: The cricketing world is buzzing with heated debates and critiques in the wake of India’s World Test Championship (WTC) final loss. One of the pivotal issues being discussed is the exclusion of experienced batsman Cheteshwar Pujara from the 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series against West Indies. Mohammad Kaif, a well-respected figure in Indian cricket, has added his voice to the concerns.
Kaif is baffled by the selectors’ decision to drop Pujara following the WTC final loss. He argues that it seems unfair to single out Pujara, as many players failed to perform in the crucial match. During his recent appearance on ‘Virtual Encounters’ on DD India, he commented, “It’s not just Pujara; many players haven’t scored runs. Pujara always seems to be the one getting dropped. It’s difficult to comprehend why he has been excluded.”
He also made it clear that the defeat in the WTC final was not solely because of batting failures. Kaif argued that India’s bowling performance left much to be desired and the decision to bowl first on a challenging pitch against Australia was a significant strategic error. He contended that the inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin in the playing XI might have altered the match’s outcome.
This scenario brings us to a broader issue of inconsistent selection policies. Kaif pointed out the need for decisive choices from the team management regarding players like Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. In his view, if they are not part of the long-term plans, the selectors should state that upfront and move on.
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Mohammad Kaif, a well-respected figure in Indian cricket, has added his voice to the concerns of Cheteshwar Pujara getting dropped
Kaif stated, “If someone like Cheteshwar Pujara is not in your long-term plans, you need to make that call. The same goes for Rahane. Once you have new players, move on from Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara. Don’t wait for them to regain their form and then bring them back.” His words reflect the need for consistency in the selection process, a trait that seems to be missing at present.
Additionally, Kaif questioned Rahane’s appointment as the vice-captain for the West Indies tour and Pujara’s recall based on his county performances. He urged the management to make firm decisions instead of oscillating between choices.
The exclusion of Pujara and the subsequent debates highlight a significant conundrum for Indian cricket. Kaif’s words draw attention to the need for a more thought-through selection process that values consistency and long-term vision. As India prepares to face the West Indies on July 12, it remains to be seen how the team adapts without the experience of Pujara at the crease.
