Win Projections to be updated soon
After India’s disappointing defeat against South Africa in the first Test at SuperSport Park, Centurion, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh criticized the team management’s decision to drop experienced batters Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane from the Test squad.
Harbhajan expressed his perplexity at the exclusion of Pujara and Rahane, stating, “You didn’t select Ajinkya Rahane and have left Cheteshwar Pujara out for no reason. These are the two players who have scored runs everywhere.” He emphasized the value of Pujara’s contributions to the team, remarking, “We still don’t have a better batter than Pujara in Test cricket. He plays slowly but he saves you, because of him India won Tests in Australia and England.”
Pujara’s absence was felt in the first Test, especially with India’s batting struggles against South Africa. The team’s inexperienced middle order, featuring Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, failed to make significant contributions in both innings. Gill scored 2 and 26, while Iyer managed 31 and 6.
Reflecting on India’s defeat, Harbhajan questioned the team’s decision-making, particularly in the absence of seasoned players like Pujara and Rahane. He highlighted their past performances, suggesting that their experience and stability could have made a difference in the outcome of the match.
With the upcoming second Test at Newlands, Cape Town, India will be aiming to bounce back and level the series. However, Harbhajan’s comments have sparked discussions about the team’s selection strategy and the impact of experienced players in challenging conditions.
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