Why was Ruturaj Gaikwad excluded from the India squad for the New Zealand series?

Former opener Sadagoppan Ramesh believes Gaikwad should have been included, questioning the need for a fifth seam bowler instead.

What did Sadagoppan Ramesh say about Nitish Kumar Reddy's place in the squad?

Ramesh suggested that Ruturaj Gaikwad could have been selected in place of Nitish Kumar Reddy, whose role was unclear.

Could Shreyas Iyer's injury affect Ruturaj Gaikwad's inclusion in the India squad?

It's possible Gaikwad could be included if Shreyas Iyer doesn't clear his fitness test, but Ramesh feels he was a must-have regardless.

Home / Sports / Ex-Opener Blasts Team Selection: Gaikwad 'Must Have'

Ex-Opener Blasts Team Selection: Gaikwad 'Must Have'

4 Jan

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Summary

Gaikwad's exclusion from ODI squad sparks debate among experts.
Former opener Sadagoppan Ramesh questions team's fifth seam option.
Ramesh suggests Gaikwad could replace Nitish Kumar Reddy in the squad.

Ex-Opener Blasts Team Selection: Gaikwad 'Must Have'

Former Indian cricketer Sadagoppan Ramesh has openly questioned the selection committee's decision to omit Ruturaj Gaikwad from the ODI squad for the New Zealand series. Ramesh believes Gaikwad deserved a spot, suggesting he could have been selected over all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, whose role in the team remains unclear.

Ramesh highlighted the redundancy of including a fifth seam-bowling option for a home series. He pointed out that Gaikwad's recent century against South Africa demonstrated his current form, making his exclusion puzzling, especially when the team composition seemed to favor pace options over proven batting talent.

While acknowledging that Gaikwad might be considered if Shreyas Iyer fails a fitness test, Ramesh asserted that Gaikwad should have been a guaranteed inclusion from the outset. He stressed that replacements can easily be called up for home series if needed, making Gaikwad's initial omission a significant oversight.