Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has provided his insights on India’s squad selection for the upcoming five-match T20I series against West Indies. The new chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, along with the selection committee, made some notable decisions, including the continuation of monitoring the workload of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, while Hardik Pandya takes up the captaincy role in the shortest format.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tilak Varma were rewarded for their impressive performances in the domestic circuit and IPL 2023 season. However, one name that stood out due to its absence was Rinku Singh. Rinku Singh had caught everyone’s attention with his aggressive batting displays and a stunning exhibition of five sixes against Yash Dayal of the Gujarat Titans during the IPL 2023 season. Given the rest provided to senior players, it was expected that Rinku would be included in the squad for the Caribbean tour.
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However, Chopra believes that apart from Rinku, the selectors have chosen the deserving names for the Indian T20I squad. Chopra also expressed concern about the relatively thin pace bowling options and questioned the batting position of Tilak Varma. He believes that Varma should not bat below number 4.
“While it’s understandable to question the players selected, not many deserving names have been left out. The cabinet is a little bare, assuming Chahar’s return is being managed,” Chopra shared on Twitter after the BCCI officially announced India’s squad for the five-match T20I series starting from August 3.
Fast bowling looks a little thin. While it’s understandable to question the players selected, not many names who deserve are left out. Cabinet is a little bare. (Assuming Chahar’s return is getting managed)
Rinku Singh’s non-selection is a different thing though. SKY, Sanju,…— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) July 5, 2023
Referring to Rinku Singh’s exclusion, Aakash Chopra mentioned, “Rinku Singh’s non-selection is a different thing, though. SKY, Sanju, Pandya at 3-4-5? Tilak at 6? Or open with Ishan and play Tilak at 4? Personally, I don’t like Tilak batting lower than 4. Just my thought.”
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During the IPL 2023 season, Rinku Singh amassed 474 runs at an average of 59.25, securing the ninth spot on the list of leading run-scorers. Currently, the 25-year-old is representing the Central Zone in the Duleep Trophy semi-finals, aiming to leave his mark on Indian cricket.
