The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has come under fire for the exclusion of Ruturaj Gaikwad from the national squad for the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh. Gaikwad, who also missed selection for the Test series, has sparked concern among fans and cricket experts alike regarding the BCCI’s selection criteria and the stability of team composition.
Naushad Shaikh Voices Concern
Naushad Shaikh, Gaikwad’s teammate from Maharashtra, publicly criticized the BCCI’s decision on social media, expressing confusion over the snub. He pointed out that with regular T20I openers Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal unavailable, Gaikwad’s omission from the squad seemed unwarranted.
Naushad commended the BCCI for its overall efforts in promoting cricket but emphasized the need for consistency in team selection. He stated, “How Ruturaj Gaikwad was not included in the Bangladesh T20 Series… not getting picked in this team is hard to understand. BCCI is doing an extraordinary job across every department, but there should be some stability in team selection which previously it used to be.”
He highlighted Gaikwad’s recent performances, including being the second-highest run-scorer in the IPL 2024 and scoring 133 runs in four matches during the Zimbabwe series at an average of 66.50.
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Performance Record
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s credentials as a T20I player are robust, with a record of 633 runs in 23 matches, averaging 39.56 and a strike rate of 143.53. His exceptional showing in the IPL, where he scored 583 runs as the second-highest run-scorer, along with his leadership as the captain of Chennai Super Kings, underscores his potential and readiness for international cricket.
Despite being a standout performer in domestic leagues, Gaikwad’s absence from the squad for the Bangladesh series appears puzzling. Reports indicate that his exclusion was a strategic decision to allow him to focus on the ongoing Irani Cup, aiming to help him regain form in red-ball cricket.
Future Considerations
The BCCI’s decision-making process has come under scrutiny, with fans advocating for Gaikwad’s inclusion in the national setup, especially given his current form and talent. There are suggestions that he should be considered for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-2025, where his capabilities as a potential third opener are being recognized.
Naushad concluded his remarks by encouraging the Maharashtra cricket association to advocate for Gaikwad’s inclusion in future selections, saying, “Remember, you get players like him in generations, and we are blessed to have him in our state.”
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