Former Indian player Ajay Jadeja has slammed the national selection committee for overlooking Test specialist Hanuma Vihari for the upcoming two-match Test series against New Zealand at home.
However, many opposed when the selectors decided to pick uncapped Shreyas Iyer over Vihari as well. Later, the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee added Vihari to India A squad for the upcoming South African tour as well.
Speaking at CricBuzz Live, Ajay Jadeja questioned selectors on this matter. He also questioned the move of including him in the ‘A’ series instead of home Tests as well. He said:
“Vihari, poor guy. He did well. He has been with Indian cricket for a while, done well. What has he done wrong? Why should he go to India A tour, why can’t he play a Test match at home? Or don’t send him on A tour also. Somebody who has been with the team, now goes to India A tour and a new guy comes in. That’s messing with people’s minds.”
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 Since his Test debut in 2018, Hanuma Vihari has yet to play a Test match in India. He last played a match in the longer format against Australia last winter. And, later, he did not get the chance to play against England earlier this summer.
Moreover, Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik believes World Test champions New Zealand will try to play their best against India.
“They are a team to beat. They showed that in the WTC final. They have done really well for a period of time and I don’t think for any reason, the should ever be called underdogs now. They are a very solid team. They are packed with really skillful players and they will be looking to put up a show in Kanpur,” said Karthik.
“Kanpur will be a massive challenge for them. Last time, they played there, they got blown away by Ashwin, so it will be very interesting to see how they turn up and showcase their skills,” he further added.
India will whitewash New Zealand in Tests – Ajay Jadeja
Ajay Jadeja, meanwhile, has also predicted a 2-0 win for India in the Tests. The first Test will begin on November 25 in Kanpur followed by the final one in Mumbai on December 03.
” I don’t expect anything but turners that we have seen. Last few series at home, we have seen pitches that were not Test standard. New Zealand will be tested with their skills how to play spin. I have no doubt India will send them packing,” concluded Ajay Jadeja.
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