India batter Karun Nair was just exceptional in the recently concluded Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he went on to score 779 runs in 9 matches, at an average of 389. Such was his performance, that many wondered, he could at least make it to the IND vs ENG ODI squad, if not the Champions Trophy squad. There were also murmurs that his name was up for discussion during selection panel meeting in mid January.
Karun Nair’s Impressive Run Ignored
Now, during a pre-match conference, ODI vice-captain Shubman Gill said that too much chopping and changing isn’t required in the squad, despite Karun Nair performing too well. “Karun had a great Vijay Hazare Trophy, but that doesn’t mean the current players should be dropped. They have also performed well to reach this stage.”
Shubman Gill Gives Valid Reason
Shubman further substantiated his point by saying, that the team had lost only one match, and the players had contributed well for the unit. “We have lost only one game in the World Cups. The players in the squad have contributed significantly, and while it’s unfortunate for those excelling in domestic cricket who weren’t picked, constant chopping and changing will affect players’ confidence. Without continuity, we can never build a strong team.”
Shubman also opened up on his new leadership role. “I take it as a challenge to lead my way, firstly with my performance and then definitely in the field if Rohit bhai would want my opinions. It’s my duty to let him know what my thoughts are.”
India squad for ODIs: Rohit Sharma (C), Ꮪhubman Gill (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Rishabh Pant (WK), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Mohd. Shami, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy.
