Ruturaj Gaikwad's Exclusion from ODI Squad Sparks Debate

Ruturaj Gaikwad's Absence Raises Eyebrows

Former Indian opener Sadagopan Ramesh believes that Ruturaj Gaikwad should have been included in the squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. Ramesh suggested that Gaikwad should replace all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, questioning the decision to include a fifth seam bowler instead. Gaikwad recently scored a century while batting at number four against South Africa, yet he was omitted from the team for the New Zealand series.

Concerns have been raised regarding the BCCI selection committee's choices following Gaikwad's exclusion. Despite his impressive performance in the last match against South Africa, he found himself out of the squad. His absence coincided with the return of Shreyas Iyer, who is back from an injury sustained during the Australia tour, intensifying discussions about selection priorities. However, Iyer's availability will only be confirmed after a fitness test, and despite this uncertainty, selectors did not consider Gaikwad as a backup option.

Robin Uthappa Expresses Surprise Over Selection Decisions

Former Indian batsman Robin Uthappa expressed his astonishment at Gaikwad's exclusion, describing it as difficult to digest. He highlighted the pressure to maintain a presence in Indian cricket and emphasized the importance of resilience, positive self-talk, and focusing on the positives to cope with setbacks. Gaikwad made his ODI debut in 2022 but has not received consistent opportunities since then, accumulating 228 runs at an average of 28.50 across nine matches, including one century and one half-century.

Uthappa stressed the relentless effort required to achieve success in Indian cricket, particularly for players from regions outside major cricket hubs like Mumbai, Delhi, and Punjab. He underscored the need for continuous striving, struggling, and perseverance to secure a place at the highest level, stating, "You must find ways to keep pushing yourself, especially if you are not from one of the three major states—Mumbai, Delhi, or Punjab."