The BCCI revealed the squad for India‘s five-match Test series against England on Saturday, with Karun Nair making a return to the team after nearly eight years. His consistent performances in domestic cricket were key to his recall. In contrast, Sarfaraz Khan faced disappointment as he was left out of the squad. Despite a solid debut series against England and a century in the first Test against New Zealand, Sarfaraz struggled in the following matches. He was benched during Test series against Australia series and was then dropped from the squad.
Former India cricketer Sunil Gavaskar was pleased with Karun Nair‘s selection, highlighting that he is one of India’s top options given his current form.
“Even Jaydev made his Test debut at a young age, and after that, it took him around 13 years to play another Test. But he kept going, picking up wickets in domestic cricket. Similarly, Karun has continued to score big hundreds. That’s why the selection committee decided to bring him back. A player in form is always a strong option. He’s scoring consistently and also gained experience in the County Championships. It was a smart decision to bring him back into Indian cricket,” Gavaskar told India Today.
Gavaskar recognised that dropping Sarfaraz was a tough decision, but his poor form in the New Zealand series and absence from Ranji Trophy due to injury, made it difficult for selectors to assess his form.
He also emphasised that players must perform consistently instead of taking their place for granted.
“Cricket is tough. When you get an opportunity, you have to make sure you earn your spot. Even if you score a century, don’t think about it in the next innings. You have to focus, get your eyes in, and score those runs again. Don’t give anyone a chance to push you out of the team,” he added.
“It’s up to you to secure that spot. Keep knocking on the door until you break it down.
“I believe it’s a tough situation because after the Australia tour, there was no red-ball cricket. There was the Ranji Trophy, but he was injured and didn’t play, so he couldn’t demonstrate his form.
“You have to make yourself undroppable. Historically, after a series loss, players who are 13th, 14th, or 15th in the squad are often left out. It’s important to make the most of every opportunity that comes your way,” he concluded.