Sunil Gavaskar Criticizes Team Selection for Perth Test
India’s cricketing legend, Sunil Gavaskar, expressed disappointment. He was upset that Ashwin and Jadeja were not in India’s playing XI for the first Test against Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The decision, made by stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah and head coach Gautam Gambhir, saw the inclusion of spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar instead.
Gavaskar, in his Day 1 commentary, strongly questioned the move. He noted that Ashwin and Jadeja have a combined 900 Test wickets. They have proven effective in all conditions.
The Surprising Exclusion of India’s Star Spinners
Ashwin and Jadeja have been key to India’s Test success on tough, global pitches. Their exclusion for the Perth Test raised eyebrows. The venue’s big boundaries seemed to favor their inclusion. Instead, the team management opted for Washington Sundar. His poor recent form against New Zealand in ODIs may have influenced the decision.
“Really surprised with Ashwin and Jadeja not playing,” Gavaskar remarked. “They are not just bowlers for Indian or sub-continental conditions. They are clever and experienced.” Even if they don’t get wickets, they can slow down the scoring rate because of how smartly they bowl.”
Gavaskar Questions Team Management’s Approach
Gavaskar’s on-air analysis was critical. He suggested the team’s “new thinking” might ignore practicality. He was shocked that neither of the experienced spinners was included. The Optus Stadium has a big playing area.
“I thought you’d go with both Jadeja and Ashwin here. On Australian wickets with big boundaries, their experience would’ve been invaluable. This decision has left me stunned,” Gavaskar added.
Doubts Over New Additions to the Playing XI
Gavaskar, disapproving, questioned Nitish Kumar Reddy’s readiness for Test cricket. Reddy, a rising star for Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, was a key player. He was included in the playing XI despite his lack of international experience.
“Nitish Kumar Reddy is a promising cricketer, make no mistake about that. But is he ready for the demands of Test cricket at this stage? That’s the big question,” said Gavaskar.
Context Behind the Team Selection
Sundar and Reddy may fit the team’s focus on a fresh approach under Bumrah and Gambhir. Sundar, a spin-bowling all-rounder, has impressed with his batting in recent matches. But, his Test credentials are untested compared to Ashwin and Jadeja.
India’s decision has sparked debates among fans and experts. Many support Gavaskar’s views on the value of experience in high-pressure, overseas games.
