Former all-rounder Ajay Jadeja has voiced his criticism regarding the selection process of players for the Indian team in the upcoming T20 World Cup cricket tournament, asserting that form did not play a significant role in the selection criteria.
The BCCI’s senior selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, unveiled the Indian squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup, sparking debates over the choices made. Subsequently, both Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit Sharma addressed the media to defend the selection decisions.
Ajay Jadeja remarked that player selections in the Indian team seemed to prioritize strategy over current form. Jadeja advocated for Virat Kohli to open the innings in the T20 World Cup and suggested Rohit Sharma should bat at number three.
With Rohit Sharma at the helm, India will commence their campaign against Ireland on June 5, followed by a highly anticipated clash against Pakistan on June 9 in New York. Speaking to ‘Jio Cinema,’ Jadeja emphasized, “Virat Kohli should open the innings. Rohit should come at number three. With Virat in the team, there will be continuity.”
Jadeja also expressed support for the inclusion of Hardik Pandya, despite the all-rounder’s recent struggles with form. Pandya, who returned to the IPL after injury, has failed to make a significant impact with both bat and ball for the Mumbai Indians. Jadeja acknowledged Pandya’s versatility and stressed that selection decisions should transcend the current form.
Hardik Pandya has been appointed as the vice-captain of the Indian team for the World Cup, a decision that has stirred controversy amid concerns over his fitness and bowling capabilities. While Pandya has refrained from bowling in the IPL, the team management hopes he will contribute with the ball during the World Cup. Shivam Dube has been selected as the second fast-bowling all-rounder in the World Cup squad.
