Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has reacted to Rohit Sharma’s claim that the youngsters who show the hunger to succeed will get opportunities in the Indian team going forward. Captain Rohit stated that players who demonstrate a desire and hunger to play the longest format will be the only ones shortlisted for selection in the near future.
This came after India defeated England by 5 wickets in the fourth Test thanks to some outstanding performances by newcomers. Dhruv Jurel, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Akash Deep all stood out as India clinched the series. It was fairly obvious what was being discussed, even though no players were mentioned.
Despite strong directives from the BCCI, Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer chose not to participate in the Ranji Trophy. Although Hardik Pandya was also on the list, it is still unknown if the NCA has given him the all-clear to play in the longest format following a significant injury layoff.
“Test cricket is the toughest format. And if you want success and want to excel in this tough format then you need that hunger. It is very important. We will give opportunity only to players who have that hunger. Jinko bhookh nahi hai, unko dekh ke hi pata chal jata hai,” Rohit Sharma had said after the IND vs ENG 4th Test.
Rohit is absolutely right: Gavaskar
Gavaskar backed Rohit’s assessment and said he was correct. The renowned batter said that since Indian cricket is the source of all of the players’ wealth, notoriety, and recognition, they ought to be devoted to it.
“He’s absolutely right. The ones who want to play Test cricket, you look at them. I’ve been saying this for years. The players are what they are because of Indian cricket. The stage of life and career they are at is all because of Indian cricket. The money, fame and recognition that they have got is because of Indian cricket. So you’ve got to show some loyalty towards Indian cricket,” Gavaskar said on Sports Tak.
“And if you don’t show that for whatever reasons and say ‘I won’t play this, won’t play that’… Rohit is absolutely right in saying the ones who have the hunger, the ones who are willing to put in the effort will be given more opportunities going ahead. If this is the attitude of the selectors then it will be good for Indian cricket. We’ve seen many players pick and choose, this shouldn’t happen,” Gavaskar added.
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